Hill's Pet Nutrition reports that more than 1,500 veterinary surgeons and nurses have already subscribed for its series of feline webinars, hosted by Professor Danielle Gunn Moore. Indeed, the company says the series has been so popular that vets are advised to register for a place to watch the rest of the series, as soon as possible.
The first Webinar's topic, hosted by Professor Gunn Moore, was feline liver disease, a condition that many find difficult to diagnose and treat. Using a case study approach, primary and secondary hepatopathies and conditions such as cholangiohepatitis and triaditis were discussed, as well as useful treatments and nutritional support. If you missed the lecture the first time round, or want to check specific details or doses, watch Professor Gunn Moore's presentation or download her notes at www.thewebinarvet.com/hills-webinars.
Martha Cannon BA VetMB DSAM (fel) MRCVS will present the next webinar in the series, entitled A Practical Approach to Renal Disease on 2nd March.
To register for any of Hill's Feline Webinar Series, free of charge please go to www.thewebinarvet.com/hills and enter code hillsnl
New regulations which limit the type of animals that can be kept as pets came into force in Holland earlier this week.
Mammalian animals not included on a new 'Positive List' cannot be legally kept in Holland or may only be kept with a special permit. People who already own animals that are not on the Positive List may keep them till they die, but may not breed or trade their animals. In due course, the list will be expanded to include reptiles and birds.
The Dutch Positive List was compiled using a method developed by the University of Wageningen, in which an animal's behavioural needs are one of the prime considerations. The list favours domesticated species such as: dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, brown rats, house mice, horses, donkeys, pigs, cattle and sheep.
The Positive List excludes a number of exotic species that are currently sold in the UK, including: meerkats, sugar gliders, sloths, skunks, kinkajous, fennec foxes and several primate species, which can be purchased without the need for a licence.
The Animal Protection Agency (APA), a not-for-profit organisation which campaigns against the trade in wild animals as pets, has welcomed the new legislation and says it hopes that the UK (DEFRA and the devolved administrations) will adopt the same approach.
Elaine Toland, Director of the Animal Protection Agency said: "One only has to compare the natural life of a meerkat, which has evolved to live in large social groups, hunt for a variety of foods and reside in intricate underground burrows to see that these mammals, and many other exotic species, do not belong in the pet trade. Simples! The Dutch positive list shines more light at the end of the tunnel for anyone dealing with the fallout of the exotic pet trade, which has long been out of control."
A positive list for mammals has been in force in Belgium since 2001, where according to the APA, it has been highly effective in reducing illegal trade and the number of animals that wind up in rescue shelters.
Other European countries are apparently now considering positive lists.
Picture shows: A Sugar Glider. © Grinerswife/Dreamstime.com
The RCVS Disciplinary Committee has agreed to accept undertakings from a Dorset veterinary surgeon, Philippa Ann Rodale MBE, in which she requests that her name is removed from the RCVS Register of Veterinary Surgeons with effect from 31 July 2015, and undertakes never to apply to be restored to it.
The Committee met on Monday 17 August, resuming a hearing which had been adjourned on 20 July. The adjournment had been made to allow Ms Rodale time to submit formal responses to the charges against her and indicate whether she agreed with them. In the event, as outlined by a letter from her solicitors received by the College on 14 August, Ms Rodale declined to comment on the charges and did not admit to any of them.
Ms Rodale did not attend the hearing on 17 August, however, the Committee decided to continue in her absence, on the understanding that, as evidenced by her solicitors’ letter, she was fully aware of the hearing and had voluntarily waived her right to be presented and represented.
The original charges related to Ms Rodale’s standards of practice (in relation to issues such as biosecurity, hygiene, in-patient facilities, drug storage and the disposal of hazardous waste, among other things) and also to a test for Intradermal Comparative Tuberculin. The charges relating to her standards of practice did not have complainants, as the College raised the matters itself; with respect to the Tuberculin test charge, the Animal and Plant Health Agency, as the relevant body, raised no objection to the proposed course of accepting undertakings.
In accepting the undertakings, the Committee felt that a contested hearing that could take up to seven days and involve up to eight witnesses for the College and up to three for the Respondent would not be in the public interest. Furthermore, since the 20 July hearing, Ms Rodale had retired and closed her practice. The Committee also noted that there had been no previous disciplinary findings against her, in what was otherwise a long and unblemished career.
Ian Green, chairing the Committee and speaking on its behalf, said: “The Committee is satisfied that the undertakings offered by the Respondent protect the welfare of animals since the Respondent has now retired and is no longer in practice. It is also satisfied that the reputation of the profession is upheld since the undertakings offered go beyond any sanction which the Committee could impose at the conclusion of a contested hearing, were any of the Heads of Charge to be found proved. It considers that it would not be proportionate or in the public interest for there to be a lengthy contested hearing.”
ViVet (derived from the Latin word ‘vivet’ meaning ‘it will thrive’) will, says the College, provide a variety of resources and support to help the professions keep pace with change and remain at the forefront of animal healthcare provision.
Chris Tufnell, RCVS Senior Vice-President, helped develop the scope of the ViVet programme during his presidential year. He said: "This is an ambitious project for the College to embark upon but also very important for the future relevance and survival of the professions. Technology in the animal health sector is developing rapidly, such as the growth of telemedicine, wearable and implantable devices to gather health-related data from our animals, and low-cost genomic sequencing.
"These technologies could have a disruptive effect on the veterinary sector, so it’s important to encourage and support veterinary input at an early stage to enable the professions to shape their development and ensure that animal health and welfare is a foremost consideration.
"ViVet will help veterinary professionals to engage proactively with innovation in animal health, so that they can embrace and drive change and are not side-lined by it."
The Vivet website (www.vivet.org.uk), which was launched simultaneously at the College's inaugural Innovation Symposium in London today, contains a number of resources to showcase new technologies and innovative business models.
Anthony Roberts, Director of Leadership and Innovation at the College, said: "The aim of these resources is to help veterinary professionals harness the immense opportunities that innovation can bring to animal health and welfare by providing practical advice on areas such as launching new products and services and, in turn, encourage innovators to think about how the expertise and knowledge of the veterinary professions could input into new technologies.
"Furthermore, the programme will also help the College gain insights into the animal health market and how it is evolving. This will allow us to develop a regulatory framework that is relevant and adaptable to 21st century technology, while continuing to foster and support responsible innovation."
ViVet will also continue to organise events like today’s live-streamed symposium, which brought together thought-leaders from across the animal health, technology and business sectors, and provided a forum to discuss the opportunities and threats presented by innovation in the veterinary sphere, the impact it may have on the professions and how they are regulated.
Further details about the RCVS Innovation Symposium, including the full programme and speaker profiles, are available at www.rcvs.org.uk/innovation. Videos of speakers and a written report of the proceedings will be available from www.vivet.org.uk in due course.
Extensively updated, the new edition reflects the increasing sophistication of reptile medicine and surgery and acknowledges the expanding range of reptile species kept as companion animals.
Part one covers the husbandry aspects of reptile care, including captive maintenance and nutrition, plus a new chapter dedicated to anatomy and physiology.
Part two contains the details necessary to carry out successful clinical examination, anaesthesia, surgery (including endoscopy), treatment (including emergency and critical care), non-invasive imaging, laboratory testing and post-mortem examinations, as well as humane euthanasia.
Part three addresses disease by organ system, covering parasitology and infectious disease.
New to this third edition are also chapters on marine turtle rehabilitation and crocodilians, as well as updates on the handling of venomous reptiles.
Simon Girling said: "This third edition of the BSAVA Manual of Reptiles is another milestone in the commitment of the BSAVA to exotic species medicine. Reptile medicine and surgery is now being accepted as a mainstream discipline within the veterinary world, reflected in the growing number of textbooks and the appearance of postgraduate qualifications."
BSAVA says the new manual will benefit both the general practitioner seeing a small number of reptiles or a more specialist practitioner dealing with these species on a daily basis.
The RCVS has published a revised complaints procedure on RCVSonline.
The procedure represents the culmination of 12 months of work from the College's Preliminary Investigations Committee, with the aim of making the decision-making processes more transparent.
There are four information packs about the complaints procedure, all of which are available on RCVSonline. These are for complainants, veterinary surgeons who are complained about, those involved in decision-making at the RCVS and additional guidance for Lay Observers who provide independent, lay input to the process.
View an introduction to the RCVS complaints procedure and download the protocols by clicking here
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The RCVS has announced that the Code of Professional Conduct has been updated to restrict - from April 2016 - the use of the word specialist and its derivatives in veterinary practice marketing and promotional materials, except when referring to an RCVS Recognised Specialist.
Alternatives for practitioners who want to describe a special area of expertise in their marketing materials, but who are not on the RCVS list of Specialists include: 'Special interest in ...', 'Experienced in ...', 'Advanced qualifications in ...', or, for those who hold the status, 'Advanced Practitioner'.
The College says the changes will also apply to European Veterinary Specialists fully recognised by the European Board of Veterinary Specialisation, who will now need to join the RCVS list if they wish to use the title in the UK. However, European Specialists will be offered a simplified application process and a 50% reduction in the fee, because their revalidation is carried out by their specialist European college.
The College has also extended the deadline for new applications for Specialist Status to 30th September 2015. The deadline for re-applications by existing RCVS Specialists remains 14th August 2015.
In addition to changing the Code, the College has also amended Chapter 23 of its supporting guidance ('Advertising and publicity') to give more detailed advice on use of the terms 'specialist' and 'specialising in' in the context of advertising and referrals.
Gordon Hockey, RCVS Registrar, said: "Specialist status is not easy to achieve. Those who hold it have achieved a postgraduate qualification at a minimum of Diploma level and have satisfied us that they make an active contribution in their speciality, for example, through publishing academic papers.
"The change to the Code of Professional Conduct is therefore intended to ensure the integrity of the specialist list and title, so that those who do not have RCVS-recognised qualifications, experience and expertise do not claim or imply they hold such a status.
"These changes will benefit the public and, ultimately, animal welfare by clearly identifying those who have specialised knowledge and skills. They should also aid members of the broader profession in the UK when they are deciding who they should refer cases to.
"We recognise this represents a significant change which is why we have allowed a 'bedding in' period before the change comes into force, as well as extending the deadline for applications."
To find out more about applying for Specialist status, visit www.rcvs.org.uk/specialists. The List of RCVS Specialists is available at www.rcvs.org.uk/listofspecialists. Details of the updates made to the Code can be found at www.rcvs.org.uk/vetcode. These changes have also been reflected in the RCVS Code of Professional Conduct app which can be downloaded from www.rcvs.org.uk/codeapp.
A Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons audit panel is to visit UK veterinary schools to assess how Extra-Mural Studies (EMS) is being carried out, identify good practice and make recommendations for improvement. The exercise is part of a package of measures which aims to improve the way that EMS helps veterinary undergraduates to gain skills and knowledge in a practice environment.
RCVS Council agreed to the implementation of proposals made by a Working Party set up to review the whole EMS process in November 2009. While the EMS system was largely agreed to be valuable and working well, some areas were identified for improvement. Many of the recommendations centred on a better understanding amongst all parties involved - students, practices and vet schools - of the aims and objectives of EMS for the student, and improved communication about expectations and outcomes.
As a first step, the Education Policy and Specialisation Committee has put in place an audit of EMS at the veterinary schools. It has commissioned Dr Barry Johnson, who led the original Working Party, together with practitioners David Black, David Wadsworth and Dr Chris Chesney, to follow through individual cases, talking to the students, practitioners and clinical tutors and EMS co-ordinators at the vet schools, to build a picture of how administration, communication and follow-up is managed.
Barry said: "The objective of the audit is to identify areas of good practice that can be shared, and identify where improvements could be made - it will also promote dialogue between practices and the schools. The exercise will be repeated over the next couple of years to track changes."
The first audit took place at the Royal Veterinary College in February, as part of the full RCVS visitation of the undergraduate degree programme. The EMS audit panel will report its initial findings in June.
The full report and recommendations from the EMS Working Party can be viewed at www.rcvs.org.uk/EMS.
Trinity Vet Centre has launched an Android version of its iPhone / iPad app: Veterinary Care of Exotic Pets.
Designed for veterinary surgeons, veterinary students and veterinary nurses, the app gives the viewer an interactive experience in the care of exotic animals and includes videos of blood sampling, images of sex determination and images of common conditions including avian radiographic interpretation.
The app also contains formularies for all the commonly encountered exotic species, lists of commonly seen conditions (and their treatment) and biological data all at the touch of the screen. In addition the latest update for the iPhone / iPad features new sections on birds of prey and poultry which will also be available on the android version.
The app's developer, zoological medicine certificate holder Mark Rowland said: "This app is here to help vets offer the same high level of service offered to dog and cat clients to exotic animals which are becoming even more common. Data such as gestation periods and drug doses for exotics can easily be accessed. The videos are there to show in more detail how to blood sample exotics from Guinea Pigs to Tortoises"
The app is available from your iPhone or Android App store, priced at £7.99
“Assessment of the clinical usefulness of ultrasound-guided cytological specimens obtained from gastrointestinal lesions in dogs and cats” retrospectively reviewed GI cytological samples obtained by ultrasound-guided FNCB of 25 dogs and 19 cats from a single institution between February 2014 to August 2016.
The aim of the study was to assess factors that may influence the clinical usefulness of submitted cytological samples collected from gastrointestinal lesions by ultrasound-guided percutaneous FNCB. Ultrasound-guided FNCB included a combination of FNI (non-aspiration) and FNA techniques, as the specific technique could not be determined retrospectively.
Clinical records were evaluated to obtain historical data, clinical findings, diagnostic results and patient outcomes. Clinically useful samples were defined as smears with sufficient cell yield and preservation to allow at least a tentative cytological diagnosis of the lesion character or pathological process.
Factors that may have influenced the retrieval of a clinically useful sample were assessed and included lesion location, sonographic lesion thickness, loss of or alteration to intestinal layer conspicuity on ultrasound, and the number of slides submitted to the cytologists. The thickness of lesions was further categorised as either a mass (≥20 mm thickness) or a thickening (<20mm).
Ronnie (pictured right) will look at quality control and artefacts of sample quality and review the effects of different pathologies. By examining analyser output, he'll demonstrate how abnormalities of cells and plasma may affect measured parameters and their indices.
Using images, photomicrographs and video links, he'll move onto explain the techniques and equipment needed to complement analytical automation in order to confirm results quality.
Ronnie said: "“We now have more near patient testing in veterinary haematology than ever before. Quality is key to best practice and ultimately superior patient care. Sod’s Law states that ‘if something can go wrong, it will!’, so along the way to your generating a Complete Blood Count, it pays to be aware of some of the pitfalls that you may encounter.
“One should never underestimate the value of gross exam and simple methods that can be used to ensure sample quality and results accuracy. Seeing is believing after all!”
There will also be an open Q&A session with Ronnie after the presentation, so attendees are invited to bring any questions on all things haematology.
To register for the webinar, visit: https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/2458623866746094093
For the study “Comparative accuracy of two veterinary-calibrated point-of-care glucometres for measurement of blood glucose concentration in dogs” blood was sampled from client and staff-owned dogs above 6 months of age, of various breeds and health status.
The samples were then used to compare the accuracy of both PGBMs against a reference method - the hexokinase reaction method.
The authors say this was the first study to investigate AccuTell and the first published evidence comparing AlphaTrak2 with a reference method.
The study also sought to determine how useful the monitors are in clinical decision making and to assess the effect that packed cell volume (PCV) (known to affect the reliability of blood glucose concentration measurement in dogs) has on blood glucose concentration using the two PBGMs.
AccuTell was found to be more accurate and useful in a clinical setting than AlphaTrak2.
Both PBGMs were inaccurate in comparison with the hexokinase reaction method, and although they have potential for standard clinical use, unexpected blood glucose concentrations need to be checked by the hexokinase reaction method.
In addition, measurement of blood glucose concentration by the AlphaTrak2 was affected by PCV whereas measurement by the AccuTell was not.
Nicola Di Girolamo, Editor of JSAP said: “We oftentimes think that an instrument that is developed specifically for our patients will provide satisfactorily results on most occasions.
"Instead, studies such as the one presented here, are critical to understand whether the ‘numbers’ provided by an instrument are reliable for clinical use.
"The authors provided 95% limits of agreements to their results.
"This value is of great help for clinicians, since it shows the difference expected between the instrument and the reference standard in the majority of occasions.”
The study can be read online here: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/jsap.13491
Reference
Each candidate will produce a written reply to two questions of their choice, which will be included on their candidate profile webpage ahead of the start of the election.
The 14 candidates who are standing in this year’s election for the three available elected places on RCVS Council are:
The biographies and election statements for each candidate are available to read at www.rcvs.org.uk/vetvote24.
The three candidates with the most votes will join Council for their four-year terms at the College’s AGM in July.
The College says it will only accept one question per person and questions must be decent.
Offensive, defamatory and inaccurate questions will not be passed on to candidates.
You can email your question to: vetvote24@rcvs.org.uk
VetSurgeon member Anthony Todd has started a petition amongst veterinary surgeons and nurses, calling for the installation and routine monitoring of CCTV in all pre-slaughter areas of licensed abattoirs in the UK.
The petition was triggered by a news report in the Daily Mail exposing shocking cruelty to pigs at an Essex slaughterhouse run by Cheale Meats. Staff were seen stubbing their cigarettes out on the pigs' faces, punching them and failing to stun the animals correctly, in undercover footage filmed by Animal Aid.
The Food Standards Agency, which is responsible for breaches of welfare at abattoirs, has refused to submit the footage to Defra for prosecution, on the basis that it was filmed illegally.
Anthony said: "Prosecution will automatically follow with legal video evidence.
"The exposure of the Cheale incident was fortuitous and may well be the tip of the iceberg which must be eliminated."
To sign the petition, please visit: http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/abbatoir-abuse/
The range comprises of a detangling pre-wash, a cleansing shampoo and a fragrant conditioner, all of which are pH balanced and formulated using natural ingredients and a blend of essential oils designed to make bathtime a calmer experience.
The products all come in 300ml bottles with a list price of £6; RRP £12.
The Pet Remedy range can be ordered direct from Animalcare on 01904 487687 (orders@animalcare.co.uk) or from your veterinary wholesaler.
Mary (or, to give her her full title, Dr Mary Fraser BVMS PhD CertVD PGCHE FHEA MAcadMEd CBiol FRSB FRSPH FRCVS) focussed on decision-making in practice while studying for her MRes in Clinical Veterinary Research, looking at how vets and owners influence the decision making process. This led her to consider how decision making is taught to students.
As part of the initiative, Mary has launched a new website: www.clinicaldecisions.org, which, together with a supporting blog, is designed to help students and recent graduates examine their decision making in practice, consider how owners influence it, and take forward shared decision making for the benefit of all.
Mary said: "As a student decision making can seem difficult. Working with owners, all of whom have different expectations, can add to those challenges.
"I hope that by bringing that discussion to the fore we can support each other and allow future vets and veterinary nurses to identify their own strengths in supporting owners to make the best decisions for their animals."
Find out more and contribute to the discussion at www.clinicaldecisions.org
Goddards, the Greater London-based 46-branch, 3 hospital veterinary group has announced the move of its HQ to a new premises in a former police station in Woodford Green, Essex.
Twenty staff from the practice, including senior managers, the accounts and IT teams and the ProActive Pets Wellness Club, are now based at the new premises.
PC Philip Goddard of Woodford Green said: "After 60 years working within our hospital in Wanstead, our support teams had outgrown the office space available. The move provides a greatly enhanced working environment for them and has also freed up space in the hospital that will be used to improve facilities for staff there, including a new lecture room for our Nursing College and Training Department."
The new address is: Claygate House, Manor Road, Woodford Green, Essex IG8 8BX. Telephone: 020 8506 0703.
The NHS doctor, television presenter, author and columnist will be sharing his insights on the mental health challenges of working within a caring profession under the constraints of the pandemic.
Dr Ranj is the second keynote speaker to be confirmed, the first being Jenny Campbell and the third to be revealed next month. They will be joining a line-up of more than 100 UK and International contributors during the three days of the event.
Dr Ranj is familiar with the intense pressure that many veterinary professionals are facing when juggling working in a sometimes emotionally stressful environment with that of home life. When the pandemic started Dr Ranj took a step back from media work to focus on supporting the NHS in his role as a paediatric emergency medicine specialist. He said: "Maintaining wellbeing is all about doing the basics right.
“We are in a pandemic and people are under intense pressure - from work, from home life, from a health perspective and so much more. So, despite everything going on around you, make sure you have a routine every day.
"Get out and about safely. Build some physical activity into your schedule. Nourish your body with everything it needs, and make sure you allow yourself some treats too! Take a moment for yourself every day to do something that makes you feel good.
"Take time to connect with others safely and check in on the vulnerable too. Celebrate the little victories and achievements that you have. And at the end of the day, make sure you look after your sleep because that's when your brain and body recover from the stresses of everyday. Everything else we do is a bonus on top of those basics. And if you are struggling, make sure you reach out for help and speak to someone."
BSAVA President Ian Ramsey said: "We are delighted to welcome Dr Ranj as one of our three keynote speakers this year. One of the many advantages of Congress evolving into a virtual event for 2021 is that we can be more flexible and creative with our sessions and how we fulfil the needs and expectations of every member of the practice, from clinical, interactive, wellbeing and social perspectives. Our three keynote presentations are eagerly anticipated.”
Prices for BSAVA Virtual Congress start at £99 +VAT for members. To register visit https://www.bsavaevents.com/bsavacongress2021/en/page/home
This, say the authors, could lead to shorter hospitalisation time and less stress for donor cats.
For the study, researchers at the Royal Veterinary College measured the systolic blood pressure of 100 client-owned cats which had been randomly assigned to receive IVFT or no fluid after blood donation.
Owners were also contacted following donation to record any changes in their cat.
The results showed no significant difference in blood pressure between cats that received post-donation IVFT and those that didn't.
The main reported changes were minor bruising at the venepuncture site and mild lethargy, with no significant difference between the IVFT and no-IVFT groups.
These findings suggest that IVFT post-blood donation may not be necessary, as haemodynamic stability appears to be maintained despite the loss of blood.
Dr Guedra Allais, lead author of the study, said: "Our study showed no significant difference in blood pressure at different time points in feline donors that received intravenous fluid compared to others that didn’t receive any fluid.
"Other perfusion parameters such as capillary refill time, heart rate and pulse quality were not evaluated, and we recommend considering intravenous fluid in any feline donors if any major changes are detected on post donation physical examination.”
A recent survey of nurses attending Hill's nurse roadshows has identified that just over 20 per cent of nurses pay for their own CPD. Although no claims have been made regarding how representative the sample is of the general nursing population, the survey by Hill's Pet Nutrition mirrors the results of a recent RVCS survey.
Adrian Pratt, Veterinary Affairs Manager at Hill's said: "It comes as no great surprise to find that nurses are so dedicated to doing a good job that they will even fund their learning themselves and it's great that round 80 per cent are having their CPD paid for. It is a little depressing to find that some of the practices they work in are unable to support nurses in their efforts, perhaps because of the economic situation. We launched our Veterinary Nutrition Academy with the aim of offering easy to access CPD, free or at very low cost. Practice members can register free and I'd really encourage practice principals and practice managers to take a look at www.myhillspet.com/vna to see how much is available for negligible or very little expenditure. The credit crunch is affecting lots of people and practices but if we can use any down time available to improve skills and knowledge, that has got to be a healthy response."
Bonny Millar, President of the BVNA said: "Some employers may still be unaware that CPD is now compulsory for the RVN but a recent RCVS ‘Survey of the Veterinary Nursing Profession 2008', found that qualified VNs were not finding it difficult to meet the required 45 hours of CPD over 3 years. Those who took part in the survey said that they averaged just over 3 days in the last 12 months, with 84% of those surveyed saying all or most was paid for by the employer. As there is no obligation for the employer to pay for CPD, it is good to know that so many are doing so but it is also important that nurses can demonstrate that any newly gained knowledge will be used to provide a better service to their patients and practice."
This was a view echoed by Sarah Hibbert, President of VPMA: "It would seem logical that relevant CPD which has a benefit to both the practice and individual should be considered in a structured fashion and in light of these findings it would be appropriate for practices revisit their CPD policies to ensure they are fair and reasonable to all parties concerned."
The Hill's survey also showed that just under 30 per cent of nurses have their own CPD allowance provided by the practice. This suggests that about half of the nurses in the UK are to a large extent basing their CPD on self-directed learning. One of the champions of self-directed learning, Malcolm Knowles, defines it as a process ‘... in which individuals take the initiative, with or without the help of others, in diagnosing their learning needs, formulating learning goals, identifying human and material resources for learning, choosing and implementing appropriate learning strategies, and evaluating learning outcomes.'
According to Adrian this could signal a positive step forwards, "On one hand self directed learners have been shown to be more proactive about learning, more motivated and more likely to retain and use what they do learn. However, there is a danger that a practice could be left with gaps in knowledge or skills unless there is some active intervention in the form of a review or guidance regarding the individual's particular training needs, those of the practice team as a whole and the appropriateness of individual courses. Those practices that allocate training allowances are to be congratulated on being forward thinking but it is worth remembering that conferring a training allowance does not involve abrogating responsibility for providing support, guidance and encouragement. We have taken care to introduce incentives for completion of Hill's VNA courses, not because we think that nurses need to be motivated by extrinsic rewards but because we should celebrate those who work hard to become better nurses."
Ceva Animal Health UK, makers of Feliway for cats and Adaptil for dogs, has launched an online petition calling for the Government to force all fireworks manufacturers to carry information about pet and wildlife safety both online and on packaging and is calling for the veterinary industry to back the campaign.
Ceva says the campaign is designed to highlight the stress that Bonfire Night can cause to pets: according to the company's research more than 80 per cent of owners say their pet is afraid of the noises associated with firework season.
The petition states: Over 80 per cent of pet owners have a pet that is afraid of fireworks. Fireworks manufacturers need to accept their responsibilities and publicise pet safety information on packaging and on their websites. Adaptil call (sic) on the Government to make this a mandatory requirement.
However, that rather beggars the question: "What pet safety information?" After all, there isn't that much pet and wildlife information you can fit on packet of bangers (especially after you've added the elf 'n safety information for half-wits, like: "This product may go bang"). So perhaps the amount of pet and wildlife safety information that could be included on a firework would be limited to something like: 'Remember to check there aren't any pets about before using this firework'. But that's something most concerned pet owners do anyway, and adding the instruction to the side of a firework surely isn't going to make a blind bit of difference.
Nevertheless, Sarah Endersby at Ceva Animal Health UK, said: "This will be the second year running we have called upon the fireworks industry to recognise its responsibilities when it comes to protecting pets and wildlife during what is the most stressful season for them. For example, many dogs find fireworks distressing and may go on to develop noise phobia.
"Many owners will seek advice from pet specialists such as vets, vet nurses, pharmacists and pet shop staff. However, by producing warnings on the packaging, fireworks manufacturers can also help advise and guide pet owners to minimise the stress caused to pets."
Ceva has also produced a range of materials for fireworks to help educate owners on firework fear and how to calm and soothe their pets. There's a marketing pack which can be placed in veterinary practices which includes leaflets, a leaflet dispenser, stickers, bunting and notice-board materials.
To request a pack, please email retailuk@ceva.com or call Ceva on 01494 781 510
You'd better hope though that Ceva isn't too successful with its campaign to highlight the stress caused to pets by fireworks. If people really do become more careful about how they use fireworks, nobody will need to buy Adaptil or Feliway!
The first issue of the online European Journal of Companion Animal Practitioners (EJCAP) has gone online.
In the issue, which is available exclusively to members of the Federation of European Companion Animal Veterinary Associations (FECAVA), several top European experts on diagnostic imaging present their 'tips and tricks' on radiographic, arthroscopic and ultrasound examination of selected joints and abdominal organs. It also provides an insight into the newer tools of CT and MRI to show how these can help to diagnose some more elusive conditions.
In the issue, you can test your knowledge and watch 'how to' videos, interactive slideshows and dynamic CT scans.
Articles include:
The issue also features book reviews, global and European updates and FECAVA news, with the new poster on the prevention of antibiotic resistance, and a video message from the Russian FECAVA Director Ilya Serada.
If you'd like to register for membership of the FECAVA, visit: www.fecava.org/ejcap and follow the instructions. Once registered and logged in, all EJCAP online and previous print volumes of EJCAP (available in pdf) can be accessed directly.
FECAVA is supported by MSD Animal Health, Hills Pet Nutrition and Elanco Animal Health.
Dog owners who allow their dog to attack people or assistance dogs will face tougher prison sentences from today.
Changes to the Dangerous Dogs Act will also mean dog owners can now face prosecution if their dog attacks a person in their home or on any private property, except if they attack a trespasser.
The maximum sentences for allowing a dog to attack someone in England or Wales have also been increased as follows:
Animal Welfare Minister Lord de Mauley said: "Dog attacks can have horrific consequences for victims and families and it is only right those responsible should face tough punishments.
"Irresponsible dog owners will not only face longer prison sentences, but will also be liable for prosecution regardless of where an attack takes place, even in their own home. This will give protection to those who provide vital services in the community - postal workers, nurses, utility workers - as well as people visiting family and friends."
For the first time, the Dangerous Dogs Act also includes a specific offence to protect assistance dogs from attacks.
Guide Dogs Chief Executive Richard Leaman said: "An attack on a guide dog can be devastating. It can rob someone with sight loss of their independence and freedom, leaving them virtually housebound. We're delighted that irresponsible owners can now be given tougher sentences if their dog attacks an assistance dog.
"With an average of 10 guide dogs being attacked every month, we're looking to the police to fully use their new powers to protect vulnerable people from these sometimes life-changing attacks."
The changes will also see new preventative powers for the police and local authorities so they can act early to stop dog attacks before they occur. These measures include steps the dog owner can take to address their own or their dog's behaviour, for example:
Attending dog training classes.Repairing fencing to their property to prevent the dog escaping.Requiring their dog to be muzzled in public.
Crime Prevention Minister Norman Baker said: "The coalition government is already making real progress in defending the public from out of control dogs and their irresponsible owners. Today's measures will protect individuals and also assistance dogs, which bring security, confidence and independence to their handlers.
Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club Secretary said: "The Kennel Club sees these amendments as being extremely positive overall for the welfare of millions of dogs in this country, as well as helping to protect the public and the UK's responsible dog owners. For too long, irresponsible owners who consistently allow, or even encourage, their dogs to act aggressively or behave dangerously have essentially been protected by regulations which tend to penalise the dogs rather than their irresponsible owners. This updated legislation makes it absolutely clear that this is not acceptable and owners must take responsibility for adequately training their dogs.
"We have been very careful during our work with Government to ensure that there are adequate defences for those otherwise responsible dog owners who find themselves in unforeseen circumstances. This includes scenarios such as dogs protecting their homes from intruders or responding to provocation.
"Disappointingly however, the issue of breed specific legislation still remains unaddressed, with the government failing to use the opportunity whilst amending the Dangerous Dogs Act to repeal this ineffective element of the law.
"The Kennel Club believes in the principle of 'deed not breed' and that genetics plays only a small part in the temperament of a dog, with breeding, socialisation and environment having a far greater effect. The majority of dog bite incidents are a result of the irresponsible actions of owners who have either not taken the time and trouble to train their dog correctly, or have in fact trained them to behave aggressively. Consequently any legislation based on genetics that ignores the influence of the dog's keeper on its behaviour is highly likely to be ineffective, as has been proven with the Dangerous Dogs Act."
Virbac has announced that it is to support the work of Glasgow student vets buy supplying their homeless project with vaccines and parasiticides.
'Trusty Paws' was set up last year by fourth year veterinary student Ruby Shorrock and a group of her fellow students to provide basic veterinary care to dogs belonging to homeless people in Glasgow.
Working with organisations which help the homeless, the students provide monthly clinics during which they give free vaccinations and flea/worm treatments to animals owned by the homeless. They also microchip them and give out bedding, food and clothing for the dogs and their owners.
Virbac is providing its Canigen DHPPi and Lepto vaccines to Trusty Paws, as well as its recently launched Milpro wormer and its Effipro spot-on flea treatment.
Royal Canin is also supplying marketing assistance to help Trusty Paws spread its good pet-care message and encourage those in need to visit the clinic. They will also provide clinical diets to those pets in need of specialised nutrition.
Ruby Shorrock: " Glasgow is in desperate need of this service as there is very little in place to help homeless people with animals - not even a dog-friendly hostel. We provide preventative care for their dogs in a friendly environment where they can also have a warm drink, a sandwich and a chat. We rely on fundraising and donations to keep the clinics running and also fundraise to help any dogs with major health problems so that they can made more comfortable for their hard life on the city's streets.
"For many homeless people, their dogs are a treasured companion. Protecting them from disease and parasites is the most important thing we can do to help them continue to benefit from this companionship.
Simon Boulton MRCVS, Head of Marketing (Companion Animal Business Unit) at Virbac, said: "In setting up Trusty Paws, Ruby and her colleagues are providing a vital service to animals in dire need of basic veterinary care. They are also extending the hand of friendship and support to homeless people in Glasgow, who already face a difficult life and value the unconditional love they get from their pet so highly. We were inspired by the fantastic work they are doing and are delighted to support them by donating our vaccines and parasite control products to them."
During the race, which runs between Johannesburg and Durban in April 2017, Jason and Paul will cover 900km (559 miles) on their velocipedes.
They're raising money for a charity called Chipembere Rhino Foundation, a charity which works to monitor rhino and curb poaching. According to the charity, there are 20,000 African white rhino and 4,800 African black rhino remaining, which classifies them as ‘near-threatened’ and ‘critically endangered’ respectively. Against that background, poaching levels have reached crisis point, with 2,700 rhinos killed between 2000 and 2013, and a further 1215 in 2014 alone.
The importance of the charity's work was further highlighted today after news that poachers have shot an African white Rhino for its horn at Thoiry Zoo outside Paris.
Jason said: "We are living in a world where our natural resources, from water and minerals to animals and plants, are becoming increasingly rare and as a result they are highly prized and valuable. Habitat destruction and poaching are two of the greatest risks facing the world's wildlife. Rhinos are being killed for their horns, elephants for their tusks, pangolins for their scales and now even donkeys are being killed for their skins. We only have one planet and we all need to do what we can to protect it."
If you’d like to support Jason and Paul in their efforts, you can do so at http://www.justgiving.com/teams/rhinocycle