The researchers say the effectiveness of cheaper devices could result in wider use amongst farmers, vets and hoof trimmers helping to identify lameness earlier.
The study, led by RVC undergraduate veterinary student, Aidan Coe, alongside Dr Nicola Blackie, a senior lecturer in Production Animal Science at the RVC, compared the thermal images of 83 cows’ hind feet, captured with both high and low cost thermal imaging devices.
Very little difference was identified in the performance and quality of the devices despite the low-cost device being 2% the cost of the high cost device.
Images captured suggested that low-cost thermal imaging devices would be the most cost-effective choice to aid in the identification of lameness.
This study highlights the effectiveness of cheaper infrared thermal imaging devices in identifying the condition which has the potential to lead to the wider use of the devices by farmers, vets and hoof trimmers, in turn allowing the condition to be identified earlier.
Whilst high-cost devices have sometimes been used to detect lameness in cattle, the price point of up to £20,000 and fragility has previously limited their usefulness in a farm setting.
Aidan Coe, Undergraduate Veterinary Student at the RVC, and lead researcher on this paper, said: “There is a possibility that low-cost infrared thermal imaging devices could be used as an objective, cost-effective method of assessing the lameness of the national herd, which may prove a useful adjunct to the current lameness detection methods.”
The full paper can be accessed at: https://www.mdpi.com/2306-7381/9/8/414
Reference
Agrimin has announced the launch of a new range of boluses for sheep and cattle that use 'eroding technology' to deliver a sustained supply of three trace elements for up to 180 days:
According to Agrimin, each bolus is designed to provide the full daily requirement of cobalt and selenium and the largest available daily supply of iodine to both cattle and sheep. The boluses do not contain any copper, an element known to cause issues in certain parts of the country, in closely managed dairy cows or in continental sheep breeds.
Each bolus is made up of two parts, held together by a soluble wrapper. After administration, the wrapper dissolves and the two halves remain in the reticulum where they erode and dissolve. This process delivers a continuous and regular supply of nutrients to the animal.
Agrimin's Dr Jamie Bennison said that the new range has been extensively trialled in New Zealand and at Glasgow Veterinary School: "Trials have confirmed a sustained release profile which ensures that iodine, selenium and cobalt levels are maintained throughout the active life of the bolus. In farm trials this has translated into higher levels of the elements in blood samples and improved animal productivity."
Treatment is one bolus per animal (48g for sheep; 160g for cattle) administered with an Agrimin bolus gun. One bolus is sufficient to meet the animal's full daily requirement for 180 days.
For more information about the 24•7 Iodine•Selenium•Cobalt range of cattle and sheep boluses, please visit http://www.agrimin.com/ or call 01652 688046.
The letter outlines how the organisations want to work with the government to ensure the best possible outcome for animal health and welfare, public health and the veterinary profession post-Brexit, but also voices concern that perceptions of ‘anti-foreigner’ rhetoric may already be having an impact on the veterinary workforce.
Here is the full text of the letter sent to the Prime Minister on the afternoon of Tuesday 18 October 2016:
Dear Prime Minister,
Like all professions and sectors, we are currently involved in detailed debates regarding how Brexit is likely to affect our members and how we can best harness the opportunities it may present. We are very keen to work with the government to make a success of Brexit within our sector. The veterinary profession plays a crucial role in protecting public health, relies heavily on EU graduates and is already feeling the impact of the EU referendum.
The UK veterinary profession is made up of over 26,000 veterinary surgeons and over 11,000 veterinary nurses, working to improve the health and welfare of animals, to monitor and control the spread of diseases, and to assure the safety of the food we eat. Each year around 50% of veterinary surgeons registering to practise in the UK are from overseas, with the vast majority coming from the EU. EU veterinary surgeons make a particularly strong contribution to public health critical roles such as working in the Government Veterinary Services. In the meat hygiene sector some estimates suggest 95% of veterinary surgeons graduated overseas. Consequently, Brexit and accompanying changes to the mutual recognition system or immigration restrictions could have a profound impact upon the veterinary workforce.
We are currently considering how best to manage the potential impact on the veterinary workforce, and will be very pleased to discuss these issues with the relevant government departments in due course. However, even before Article 50 is triggered we are experiencing a negative impact on the existing veterinary workforce.
We have received reports that the increasing focus on foreign workers is causing personal distress to individual members of the veterinary profession who live and work in the UK. There are also reports of a negative impact on recruitment and retention: those involved in public health critical roles, such as meat hygiene, are having increasing difficulty recruiting much needed EU veterinary surgeons to work in the UK; leading experts from overseas are turning down employment offers from top UK universities; and many others are considering leaving the UK due to a feeling it is no longer welcoming to foreigners. There is a danger that the language and rhetoric around Brexit, alongside the ongoing uncertainty for non-British EU citizens, could seriously impact the veterinary profession’s ability to fulfil its essential roles.
The government has encouraged professions like ours to present factual data on the EU migration issues so that you can fully understand the challenges the country faces. The RCVS has begun the process of commissioning detailed research into the impact that Brexit is having upon those working in the profession and the implications this could have for the veterinary workforce. We will keep your officials informed as to the results of this research.
In the meantime, we reiterate our call for the government to protect the status of non-British EU vets and vet nurses currently working and studying in the UK, and urge Ministers to be mindful of the negative impact of what may be perceived as ‘anti-foreigner’ rhetoric.
We are committed to working with you to identify opportunities created by Brexit for animal health and welfare, public health and veterinary research and to realise our joint vision for the UK to continue to lead in these areas, and we are keen to maintain close communication with you and your colleagues as the negotiations develop.
Yours sincerely,
Chris Tufnell, President, Royal College of Veterinary SurgeonsGudrun Ravetz, President, British Veterinary Association
The programme, which starts in July, will cover a range of different exotic species, from initial examination and diagnostic sample collection to anaesthesia, surgery, and diagnostic imaging. It will also cover the workup and treatment of common diseases seen in these species.
Delegates can opt to attend three practical attendance modules which will cover small mammal surgery, avian surgery and endoscopy.
Course Director Simon Girling BVMS (Hons) DZooMed, DipECZM (ZHM), CBiol, FRSB, EurProBiol, FRCVS RCVS Recognised Specialist in Zoo and Wildlife Medicines, said: “Exotic Animal medicine is a rapidly changing discipline with new information and a greater understanding of individual species' needs growing with each passing day. The programme aims to give the delegate an in-depth view of the current best practice in exotic animal medicine and surgery and is directly relevant to the day-to-day work of the veterinary surgeon in clinical practice.
“Our expert Module Tutors, including Charly Pignon DVM Dipl. ECZM, Richard A Saunders BSc (Hons) BVSc FRSB CBiol DZooMed (Mammalian) DipECZM (ZHM) MRCVS RCVS Specialist in Zoo and Wildlife Medicine (Mammalian) European Specialist in Zoological Medicine (ZHM) and Stephen Divers BVetMed, DZooMed, DECZM(Herp) DECZM(ZHM) DACZM FRCVS, will provide support during every module.”
David Babington MRCVS, Business Development Director at Improve International, added: “We know that the prospect of treating exotic patients can fill veterinary surgeons with dread. Taking this course will increase their confidence by building their knowledge of the fundamentals of exotic animal medicine and surgery. In doing so, they will also be able to take more informed clinical approach to treating these patients.”
The programme offers a route to achieve academic qualifications - the General Practitioner Certificate (GPCert) and the Postgraduate Certificate (PgC), in partnership with ISVPS and Harper Adams University. Gaining a PgC enables delegates to apply to the RCVS for Advanced Practitioner Status in the subject.
For further information and to register interest visit: https://www.improveinternational.com/uk/course/exotic-animal-practice-distance-learning/
You can also watch a video in which Simon Girling introduces the course: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6NoRy4ZK5Dw
The toolkit contains everything a practice needs to create its own lumps and bumps awareness campaign including social media posts, videos, newsletter content and client literature.
Up to 1 in 4 pets will develop cancer over their lifetimes1 and mast cell tumours account for 1 in 5 cutaneous neoplasms2, so early diagnosis of skin lumps and bumps is of course critical.
Neil Mottram MRCVS, Technical Product Manager at Virbac said: "Making the most of cuddle time with our pets, feeling for lumps and bumps, can make a huge difference to the early detection of skin abnormalities.
"Thanks to innovative new products like Stelfonta, the options available to veterinary surgeons to treat skin tumours in dogs has never been greater, so it’s an ideal time to educate pet owners on the importance of an early diagnosis".
The toolkit is available on the Virbac Resource Library which can be found by creating an account at https://vet-uk.virbac.com/home.html or from your Virbac Territory Manager.
References
The work done by vetsurgeon.org and vetnurse.co.uk attempted to identify the sorts of unpleasant behaviour that veterinary surgeons and and nurses found themselves on the receiving end of, and the impact that it had on them. It was not, however, able to quantify the prevalence of these types of behaviour other than to the extent that there were 677 reports.
The new survey of over 650 vet nurses and student vet nurses found that not only did 96% agree or strongly agree that bullying and incivility is a serious problem in the profession, but 70% of respondents had personally experienced a mental health concern as a result.
Other findings from the survey were:
The full findings of the survey will be revealed at the MMI Student Veterinary Nurse Wellbeing Discussion Forum, taking place on Wednesday 3rd November.
Attendees will have the opportunity to discuss the challenges highlighted in the survey and how they can be addressed. The results will also be published at a session led by Jill McDonald, VN Futures Project Coordinator at BVNA Congress, taking place Saturday 2nd – Monday 4th October.
Lisa Quigley, Mind Matters Initiative Manager, said: “A number of our survey findings are extremely concerning, particularly the high levels of bullying, incivility and discrimination reported by participants. We conducted the survey with the intention of finding out more about what systemic issues across workplace practices were impacting on the profession’s mental health.
"We want to thank everyone who took part and shared their experiences with us. There were some upsetting accounts shared with us about experiences of bullying and discrimination – no one should go through this at any point in their life, let alone at their place of work.
"Decisive action needs to be taken to tackle this and we will be using the findings of the survey to help form our 2022-2027 strategy and decide what resources and training we create for the profession. Supporting the wellbeing of veterinary nurses and student veterinary nurses is one of our key priorities, and will be part of all future MMI activities.”
“I would encourage as many veterinary nurses and student veterinary nurses as possible to attend the upcoming Student Veterinary Nurse Wellbeing Discussion Forum and our session at BVNA to have your voice heard about what steps need to be taken to improve the mental wellbeing of the profession.
"We recognise that these results may bring some difficult emotions to the fore for many people, and we would encourage anyone who has experienced bullying or discrimination to seek help from an organisation such as Vetlife or the National Bullying Helpline.
"I would urge anyone who witnesses bullying or discrimination in the workplace to speak out, wherever it is safe to do so. This takes immense courage, but it is only by calling out this behaviour that it can begin to be addressed. We will be launching Active Bystander training in early 2022, to equip people with the confidence to call out unacceptable behaviour, and the skills to proactively support colleagues who have been targeted.”
Matthew Rendle, Chair of the RCVS Veterinary Nurses Council, added: “As a veterinary nurse some of these results were a difficult read and I would like to thank those student vet nurses and newly qualified vet nurses who came forward with great honesty and bravery with their views and experiences, as it couldn’t have been easy.
“We take these matters very seriously and opening up the conversation is an important first step. I hope that, following these results, we can take look at things such as strengthening reporting mechanisms for bullying and discrimination and encouraging better workplace practices to mitigate against these incidents.
“While it’s easy to focus on the negatives, I do think that these survey results have given us positive steps to build on, not least that people know how to access mental health support so they’re not suffering in silence and the role that our amazing clinical coaches are playing in supporting people with their mental health, and how we can better give them the tools for this support.”
The Veterinary Benevolent Fund has launched a short film about a veterinary surgeon's experience of severe depression and her inspiring recovery.
The charity says it hopes the film, published on the Vetlife website today, will encourage the veterinary profession to talk more openly about stress and depression in the workplace and will motivate veterinary employers to adopt best practice in supporting their staff's mental health.
Nick Short, the VBF Director responsible for the development of the Vetlife website, said: "We are so grateful to the veterinary surgeon concerned for having the courage to share her story and for her insights into what could be done to make recovery easier for other vets. We were delighted to hear that she felt she was treated well and got the help she needed from the Veterinary Benevolent Fund and the Veterinary Surgeons' Health Support Programme.
"Recent press reports have estimated that the cost to the UK economy of stress, depression and suicide is £26 billion per year. We know that the profession has a high incidence of these problems, so it follows that depressive illness must have an alarming economic effect on it. This means it is essential to invest in improving awareness and support.
"The VBF wants to produce more web videos on issues that veterinary surgeons, students or nurses commonly encounter such as debt, addiction, professional conduct or employment problems. However, we need to secure additional sponsorship in order to fund this work - each 5 minute video will cost about £2,500 to produce. If you or your organization would be interested in supporting this work, please contact the VBF office at 7 Mansfield Street, London W1G 9NQ, telephone 020 7908 6385 or email info@vetlife.org.uk. Donations can also be made online at www.justgiving.com/VBF"
Rory O'Connor, National Co-ordinator at the Veterinary Surgeons' Health Support Programme said: "Many of us will have mental health problems at some point in our lives but most can make a full return to work with the right support. As highlighted in the film, it is really helpful if employers are willing to explore adjustments to working conditions or to the working environment such as flexible working hours or changes to working responsibilities. I am always available to help both employers and employees with these kinds of discussions and we are currently developing content on mental health support in the workplace for the Vetlife website. All advice is completely confidential."
The film was made by John Somers and Ben Sheriff at the University of Exeter using an actress to speak the words of the veterinary surgeon.
The practice has been leading research into the devastating disease since 2012 and has collated information on all confirmed cases across the country.
The disease, which originally appeared in the late 1980s, was first detected in the UK in 2012.
When it affects the kidneys, it has a 90% mortality rate.
The new site offers advice and information, including a live map of confirmed cases across the UK, for both vets and pet owners.
David Walker, American, RCVS and EBVS European specialist in small animal internal medicine, leads the team at Anderson Moores and is the UK’s foremost authority on the disease.
He said: “We have been at the forefront of research into CRGV for almost a decade now and have witnessed first-hand the often-devastating effects of the disease.
“In launching this new website, we aim to inform pet owners and colleagues in the veterinary industry about CRGV.
“We hope the confirmed case map will prove useful.
"Although an environmental trigger has not been definitively proven, the seasonality of the disease makes it eminently possible and the map allows everyone to see the location of confirmed cases.”
So far this year, Anderson Moores has recorded a total of 26 confirmed cases of CRGV.
This number comes on the back of 47 confirmed cases during 2020, 19 cases in 2019 and 18 in 2018.
277 cases have been confirmed since the disease was first recognised in the UK in 2012.
David said: “As we enter the winter months, we want to advise dog owners around the country to remain calm but vigilant and seek advice from their local vets if their dog develops an unexplained skin lesion(s), especially on the leg.
“Unfortunately, we find ourselves in the time of year when cases are most commonly identified – 92% of dogs with the disease are seen between November and May.
"This is understandably a concern for dog owners; however, the disease remains rare.
“If a dog is suspected to be suffering from CRGV, the best chance of recovery probably lies with early and intensive management which may be best provided at a specialist facility.
“Treatment primarily revolves around intensive management of the acute kidney injury and is sadly only successful in around 10% cent of cases.”
Visit https://www.alabama-rot.co.uk .
Lamond Veterinary Clinic from Livingston, West Lothian has won the first ever Merial Charity Rounders Challenge.
The winning team of vets and vet nurses batted and fielded their way to victory in September's rounders tournament involving practices from the region.
Merial Territory Manager Caroline Fox said: "The winners received a shield acknowledging their sporting triumph. Everyone had a fun day and all proceeds raised from the event went to their chosen charity, the SSPCA."
She added: "Everyone enjoyed the event so much, we are already being asked to organise another tournament for next year."
If any practices would like to participate in future ‘Charity Rounders Challenges', please contact Caroline Fox on 07825624413 or email: caroline.fox@merial.com
Alison has been an active member of the BSAVA since graduating from the University of Glasgow Veterinary School in 1991.
She works in small animal practice and has completed a residency in feline medicine at Liverpool University’s School of Veterinary Science, as well as a PhD in canine Bordetella bronchiseptica.
She has also spent two years working in industry.
Sheldon will stay on to support the BSAVA as Senior Vice President.
Alison says her priorities for her time in office are to develop more innovative materials across the Association's Education, Congress, and Publications arms, to beef up the digital offering, and to focus on mental heath and wellbeing in the profession.
Alison said: "I’ve been a passionate member of the BSAVA throughout my career and a volunteer for almost as long.
"As a working vet, I know first-hand the value of being part of a professional community: the importance of shared values, educational opportunities, and support shouldn’t be underestimated.
"We must remain focussed on the day-to-day challenges veterinary teams face, respond appropriately and at pace, and continue to explore new and effective ways to support our members.”
Although the disease is commonly diagnosed later in life, a 2022 study of 123 dogs found that 40% of those aged between one and four years old had radiographic osteoarthritis, of which about half had clinical signs and of those only 2 were being treated for pain1.
Another 2022 study found that 38% of dogs over the age of one had osteoarthritic pain, but only half of them were presented for lameness or stiffness2.
Geoffrey Guyot, Pain and Inflammation Franchise Lead at Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, said: “Clinical signs of early osteoarthritis can be subtle.
"Some young dogs may present with overt lameness, but many compensate for years and manage to continue to perform their daily activities.
"Common compensations include gait or posture changes to unload the painful joint, which often go unnoticed.”
Boehringer says the aim of its campaign is to shift the perception of osteoarthritis as an old dog disease, to one which could affect dogs of all ages.
Boehringer also wants the campaign to bridge the gap between vets and dog owners, making it easier for owners to spot the early signs and initiate conversations about the condition.
Geoffrey added: "We hope the Arthritis AWARE campaign will raise awareness of early OA among owners to create more opportunities for you to diagnose and treat dogs with arthritis and improve their outcome.
"We encourage vet practices to join us on the journey so we can help improve dogs’ wellbeing together.”
Vet practices can help spread the word by downloading the Arthritis AWARE campaign pack which includes a waiting room video, a poster, owner-facing leaflets, and social media assets.
www.metacam.co.uk/aware
The survey of 2717 horse owners, 56% of which were leisure owners and 35% professionals, found that most horses (62%) were retired between 15-24 years of age, mainly for health reasons.
Mares had a higher risk of retirement than geldings, which the researchers say may be due in part to mares used for breeding not doing much structured exercise.
Just over 1 in 6 horses in the study were affected by low muscle mass according to their owners.
Age, sex, osteoarthritis, laminitis, pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID), and primary use were identified as risk factors for low muscle mass.
Geldings had a higher risk of low muscle mass than mares, which the researchers say may be a result of low testosterone.
Horses with owner-reported veterinary-diagnosed PPID, osteoarthritis and laminitis had a higher risk of low muscle mass.
Primary use was identified as a risk factor for low muscle mass, with retired horses having a higher risk than horses used for competition or pleasure riding.
Owner-reported low muscle mass was perceived to affect welfare and the ability to work in the majority of senior horses.
Alisa Herbst, who led the study, said: “A prolonged working/active life may not only be desired by owners but is also likely to provide health and welfare benefits to the horse.
"We hope the results of this study may be useful for veterinarians caring for senior and geriatric equines, by helping to achieve this."
“The information may aid in the investigation of diseases affecting senior horses and in establishing senior horse-owner education programs.
"The low muscle mass risk factor list may assist vets in identifying horses at risk of low muscle mass to be selected for close monitoring.
“Vets may also consider inclusion of an objective measurement of muscle atrophy, such as the muscle atrophy scoring system (MASS)***, in annual wellness exams, so that atrophy can be identified and managed as early as possible."
Sarah Nelson, Product Manager at Mars Horsecare added: “This survey has highlighted several interesting retirement trends.
“With a better understanding of when and why senior horses are being retired we hope, eventually, to be better placed to monitor for, prevent (where possible), and treat the underlying conditions early on, to help horses stay active and healthy for longer.”
https://www.seniorhorsehealth.com
VetSurgeon.org is once again playing host to the RCVS Elections Section, where veterinary surgeons can now come and question the candidates lining up to regulate them.
This year, there are 10 candidates fighting to win one of 6 places on council. You can 'meet the candidates' here, read their manifestos, and then ask them questions either privately - via the 'Start Conversation' link in their profile - or publicly in the RCVS Forum.
There is a new incentive to vote this year: the RCVS will donate 20p to the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) Haiti Earthquake Appeal on behalf of every voter that takes part.
The RCVS has also made it easier to vote, with the addition of SMS text voting to the online and postal options.
However, I hope more than anything else that the opportunity to challenge the candidates and find out what makes them tick in the RCVS Elections Forum will be fun and really help inspire you, the electorate, to get involved.
Last year’s competition saw photographs span a range of subjects from across the UK and overseas, from a common basilisk in Costa Rica and cattle during a TB testing day on the island of Arran, to a meerkat undergoing a vasectomy and a veterinary podiatrist at work.
Small animal vet Mandy Knight’s photo 'Happy Gastrotomy' and mixed-practice vet Jen Rowland’s photo of rare and native North Ronaldsay and Dartmoor sheep grazing under the milky way in Northumberland took the top prizes in their respective categories.
In January this year, the BVA was also invited to showcase 22 of the most commended photographs at an exhibition in the Houses of Parliament, to give MPs and Peers an insight into the varied roles performed by veterinary surgeons today.
This year’s competition, which is open to all BVA members, seeks images that highlight the human-animal bond within a veterinary practice as well as photographs of pets or wildlife taken outside of the working environment. Submissions should promote responsible animal interaction as well positive animal health and welfare.
Photographs can be submitted under one of two categories:
Human-animal bond
All creatures great and small
An expert panel of judges from the veterinary and photography worlds will judge this year’s entries. For the first time, BVA members will get the chance to select their favourite entry for the Members’ Choice Award, which will be open to votes from 27 August to 10 September.
The winner in each category will receive a £250 John Lewis gift voucher and have their photographs displayed at BVA Members’ Day in September, at other BVA events and used in BVA communications.
BVA President John Fishwick said: "The photo competition has created quite a buzz within the veterinary community since it launched two years ago. I have been delighted and amazed by the sheer range, quantity and quality of photographs submitted by our members so far and look forward to this year’s submissions.
"We are all passionate about animal health and welfare, so the way we interact with and capture images of the animal world offers a unique perspective, one that we were proud to showcase to members of parliament earlier this year. Whether you enjoy taking photos on your phone or have all the latest photography equipment, I would encourage all my colleagues within the veterinary family to give it a go and get clicking."
The competition closes at midnight on 19 August. More details about the competition, including terms and conditions, can be found at the BVA Photo Competition page: https://www.bva.co.uk/news-campaigns-and-policy/bva-photo-competition/
The full gallery of BVA Veterinary photographer of the year competition entries from 2016 and 2017 can be seen at: https://www.flickr.com/photos/britishvets/albums/
Photo: 'Happy Enterotomy' © Mandy Knight. CC BY-SA 2.0.
Virbac Animal Health has announced that registrations on BackHome BioTec, the company's microchip identification service, were moved to the Petlog Database with effect from Monday 12 September 2011.
Virbac says it moved to the UK's largest independent microchip registration database in order to offer an enhanced level of service and support, both to veterinary staff and pet owners.
Practices using the BackHome BioTec system are being asked to log onto www.virbacbackhome.co.uk to create a new account.
Gillian Brown, Product Manager for BackHome at Virbac, said: "BackHome has established itself as a popular, cost-effective and easy to use microchipping system. We believe that in appointing Petlog to manage our registrations we will now be offering a 'best of breed' service for veterinary staff and pet owners.
"We're extremely grateful to Celia Walsom, Petlog Executive, and her team. They have demonstrated unfailing energy, expertise and total dedication to ensuring this move has run smoothly and effectively for all our customers. I am confident that they will benefit from Petlog's commitment to provide a comprehensive identification service which is easy, convenient and secure to use.
"All our existing customers need to do is go to the new website (www.virbacbackhome.co.uk/) and set up an account - it's a simple and quick process. We'll also be providing a range of promotional materials to help them communicate the change to their own clients."
Petlog is owned and managed by the Kennel Club. Virbac says it is fully data compliant and defers income to ensure it can honour its lifetime promise to pet owners. Its Lost and Found helpline is available 24/7, 365 days a year and it is also a founder member of the European Pet Network.
Further information on BackHome BioTec is available on the new website, which also contains a direct link to Petlog.
For further information about BackHome BioTec, please contact your Virbac Territory Manager or call the company on 01359 243243.
Further investigation revealed that the products in question: AVA Mature Cat Chicken 2kg, AVA Mature Cat Chicken 4kg, AVA Senior Cat Chicken 2kg and AVA Adult Cat Neutered Indoor 1.5kg, all had insufficient levels of thiamine (vitamin B1), which caused the cats to exhibit symptoms of sudden collapse, fitting, widespread twitching and general unsteadiness.
Talking to the BBC, Pets at Home spokesperson Brian Hudspith said it was important to alert veterinary surgeons as well as customers because thiamine deficient cats would usually present with quite different symptoms, including stiff limbs and the head falling onto the sternum.
He said: "Rather than the more typical cervical ventroflexion (head falling onto the chest) associated with thiamine deficiency, in the three cases we saw the predominant clinical signs included sudden collapse, fitting, widespread twitching and general unsteadiness on their legs, which began suddenly after 4-6 weeks of being on the diet."
Pet owners who have bought the products are being advised by the company to dispose of the contents and return the packaging to any Pets at Home store for a full refund. Owners who think their cat is demonstrating any of the symptoms are being advised to seek immediate veterinary advice, and to contact the company's customer advisors on 0800 328 4204.
IMPORTANT UPDATEDavies Veterinary Specialists has published advice and support for veterinary professionals and pet owners concerning the diagnosis and treatment of thiamine deficiency in cats, here.
The Committee heard a number of charges against Dr Davies.
Two of the charges related to convictions for drink driving in March 2014 and October 2015, for which she received driving bans for 17 months and 45 months respectively.
The third charge related to her breaching a number of undertakings she had entered into as part of the College’s Health Protocol, including her consuming alcohol on four occasions between May 2015 and January 2016 and missing a pre-arranged appointment.
The fourth charge related to being under the influence of alcohol on three occasions while she was on duty as a veterinary surgeon in December 2016 which was also in breach of her undertakings under the Health Protocol.
At the outset of the hearing Dr Davies admitted all five charges against her and that this meant she was unfit to practise veterinary surgery and that she was guilty of disgraceful conduct in a professional respect. The Committee accepted her admissions and found, with the exception of one allegation, that her conduct was disgraceful in a professional respect.
In considering the sanction for Dr Davies, the Committee considered a number of aggravating factors including the risk of injury to animals in her care; the fact that the misconduct was sustained or repeated over a period of time; the fact that her conduct contravened the advice issued to her by the Preliminary Investigation Committee upon entering the Health Protocol; and the fact that Dr Davies was in a position of trust and responsibility during the occasions she was under the influence of alcohol in December 2016 as she was the sole veterinary surgeon on duty.
In its consideration of sanction the Committee heard a submission from counsel for Dr Davies for the decision on sanction to be postponed for six months on the basis of Dr Davies complying with nine separate undertakings, including one not to practise as a vet. In making this application Dr Davies’ counsel told the Committee that her client was remorseful over her conduct and that she had been abstinent from alcohol since August 2017 after referring herself for treatment.
The Committee decided to postpone the hearing for six months on the basis of Dr Davies’ fulfilling her undertakings. These include not to practise veterinary surgery and to remain abstinent from alcohol during the period of postponement.
Alistair Barr, chairing the Committee and speaking on its behalf, said: "The Committee accepted Dr Davies’ evidence and found her to have genuine remorse. Further it recognised that Dr Davies was fully committed to understanding and addressing her alcohol problem. Her efforts to avoid any repetition of misconduct were evident from the detailed undertakings which she had volunteered.
"The Committee took into account that Dr Davies had a hitherto unblemished career prior to her alcohol problem, having qualified in 1996. Further it noted that she had not worked as a veterinary surgeon since December 2016.
"The Committee therefore decided to postpone judgement so that Dr Davies could continue to demonstrate her improved insight and her abstinence from alcohol.”
The tracker, which Elanco produces with NADIS (National Animal Disease Information Service), highlights areas hit with blowfly strike in real-time, to provide a warning for farmers, veterinary surgeons and industry professionals.
The first reported incidents were in Hampshire, before spreading across Devon, West Sussex, and Buckinghamshire. Elanco says particularly severe cases include a flock in Dorset, in which 50% of a lamb group have been hit by blowfly strike. Latest reports are in northern England and some initial cases in Scotland.
The company says its blowfly risk forecast suggests that weather conditions from southern England and Wales to the Midlands mean that flies are now active, and females are laying eggs that could result in serious welfare and productivity issues.
Richard Wall, Professor of Zoology at Bristol University, said: "The timing and severity of blowfly strike is strongly influenced by the weather. This is a reminder to farmers that now is the time to act for early prevention. Delaying treatment not only costs the farm but risks the welfare and productivity of the flock."
Fiona Hutchings, Technical Vet at Elanco, said: "The costs of inaction when it comes to blowfly strike far outweigh the costs of protection. With 99% of farmers having suffered financial losses as a result of blowfly strike¹, the potential impact on your flock simply isn’t worth the risk. Farms need to take control — and take control early — by using a preventative IGR product with full fleece protection2."
Fiona added: "By the time symptoms show themselves, it’s often too late. It’s easy to overlook even one struck sheep, and blowfly strike can cause huge damage in very little time. In addition, using protection early reduces risk later in the season by ensuring a much lower fly count as the season progresses."
Fort Dodge Animal Health has announced that its Zulvac 8 Ovis® Bluetongue sheep vaccine is now licensed and available in the UK. The company believes that the product will provide significant benefits to sheep farmers.
Zulvac 8 Ovis® is an inactivated adjuvanted vaccine for the active immunisation of sheep by subcutaneous injection against Bluetongue Serotype 8. It also provides a reduction in viraemia. Administration is a two x 2 ml dose primary course in year one but only a single shot booster in the second year.
The use of Zulvac 8 Ovis as a booster for animals previously vaccinated with a primary course from other manufacturers is in line with Defra (2009) guidance: 'No problems are anticipated with re-vaccinating animals which have already received a primary course of vaccination with a different vaccine 1'.
The first dose can be administered from one month of age and Zulvac 8 Ovis® is proven for use in pregnant sheep. The onset of immunity is provided 25 days after the second dose.
Fort Dodge says Zulvac provides cost savings to farmers through its pricing strategy. While the price for the two dose primary course is competitive with alternative vaccines, for animals which were vaccinated last year and require only a single shot booster, the cost will be half that of competitive offerings, providing a significant incentive to farmers to vaccinate.
The vaccine is supported by a specific Zulvac Ovis fixed 2ml dose applicator with Sterimatic needle protector and cleaning system which aids administration and hygiene and is sold separately.
David Bartram MRCVS, Veterinary Technical Manager at Fort Dodge, said: "Sheep farmers have been waiting for a Bluetongue vaccine which offers a cost effective solution to vaccination - particularly for animals which received their primary course last year and are simply in need of a booster. We expect the fact that it's licensed for use in pregnant sheep to also prove attractive.
"Zulvac 8 Ovis® is the latest addition to Fort Dodge's Zulvac range for both cows and sheep. It is already used in Europe and has helped protect millions of animals."
Ceva says CLAS vials are proven to be easy to use, practical and eco-friendly and are preferred by 99% of farmers on farm1. They have 33% less impact on the environment from cradle to grave than glass2 and are robust and shock resistant3 for fewer breakages and losses. They are made from a lightweight material to make the vials easier to be transported and handled4 and have an ergonomic ‘grip groove’ for easier handing5.
Peter Keyte, ruminant business unit manager at Ceva Animal Health said: "Ceva’s CLAS vials are hugely popular with both vets and farmers due to their practicality, ease of use and environmental credentials.
“We are therefore delighted that Ketofen has joined the extensive range of livestock injectables available in CLAS.”
For further information contact your local Ceva territory manager, call Ceva on 01494 781510 or email cevauk@ceva.com.
A Lincolnshire couple desperate to find an alternative to Elizabethan veterinary collars, after their dog Tess suffered a traumatic experience, have invented a new range of wound coverings called Cozi-fit.
According to Terri and Dave Ward from Skellingthorpe near Lincoln, who designed the new product, Cozi-fit is the clear alternative to Elizabethan or Buster collars. It comes in five different sizes, and the couple say that Cozi-fit is already going down well with vets and pet owners alike.
The idea for the Cozi-fit came about after the Ward's dog Tess had a hysterectomy. Dave said: "The hysterectomy was stressful enough, but Tess then had to wear a collar to stop her licking the wound. We also had to isolate her from our other dogs and she quickly became depressed and stopped eating.
"We were so worried about her that I decided to try and make a replacement using a pillowcase which we attached to her collar and fastened round her torso and hindquarters. As the wound was covered she could be around our other dogs and her movement wasn't restricted in any way.
"I was so delighted with the result that I decided to refine my design and took it to our local vet to get his opinion and it kind of grew from there. The wound coverings now come in five different sizes to suit all dogs and cats and are made from durable cotton fabric.
"We now supply over 30 veterinary surgeries including a number of Companion Care vet surgeries as well as the RSPCA and are currently in negotiation with retailers up and down the country."
Peter Munro from Whitegates Veterinary Practice said he was impressed when Terri first came to him with her initial idea: "Cozi-fit wound covers have proved to be a great benefit in protecting abdominal and castration wounds from self-trauma, especially where collars are not well tolerated and we've had some really positive feedback from our clients."
Although the product has been well received since coming on the market Dave says there are still thousands of vets, breeders and pet owners who are unaware of Cozi-fit.
"Vets perform over three million operations every year in the UK, many of which will be neuters, caesarean sections or other types of abdominal surgery, and Cozi-fit is ideal for these types of procedures.
"It is easy to fit, allows free and natural movement at all times and is a more pleasant experience for both the animal and their owner."
For more information about Cozi-fit please visit http://www.cozi-fit.com/.
The company says that as a community interest company, it can help to bridge the gap between charities, which provide help only for those who are eligible, and commercial practices, which are becoming increasingly unaffordable as they are acquired by corporates and private equity companies.
The rules governing CIC companies mean that their assets can only be used for their social objectives and there is a limit to the money that can be distributed to shareholders: 5% above the Bank of England base rate to a maximum of 35% of profits.
Animal Trust does not charge consultation fees, so all pets are initially seen free of charge. If it turns out there’s nothing wrong, there's no charge. If treatment or medicine is required, prices are published on the website, so clients can see exactly what everything costs.
Founder Owen Monie says: “We are here to provide a comprehensive vet service for people who earn a real, living wage. We want to deliver the best access to good vet care and to remove the barriers that stop people getting care for their animals – that’s why we provide free consultations. This means pet owners can get professional advice without worrying about having to pay a consultation fee. If no treatment is needed – there’s no fee. It’s as simple as that.”
Owen says that large corporations argue they can bring better management, efficiency and innovation to the sector, and claim that costs have gone up in part due to advances in animal medicine and clients’ expectations.
"That may well be true, but big isn’t always better. In addition to its legal status as a CIC, Animal Trust lives by a set of core values (straightforward, accessible, sustainable and fair) that are becoming increasingly meaningful to customers and clients as an alternative to companies who appear to be only interested in the bottom line. There isn’t an NHS equivalent for animals – so is becoming a CIC the model that all vet practices should be looking to adopt?"
CVS has announced its acquisition of the West End Veterinary Partnership, an Edinburgh-based veterinary practice, bringing the number of practice groups owned by the company to 100, operating out of 267 sites across the UK.
West End Vets employs around 12 staff. Its main site is in Bread Street and it has two branches elsewhere in the city. Owners David Rimer and Maurice Hunter are joining CVS as joint Clinical Directors.
Simon Innes, CVS Chief Executive, said: "We are rapidly broadening the range of practices within CVS, both in terms of the type of practice and in terms of geographic spread. West End Vets is a successful and popular practice in Edinburgh and we are delighted that it has now joined our family."
Founded in 1999 and run principally by vets, CVS employs more than 3,000 staff at its practices and surgeries across the UK and in its related veterinary businesses, including an online pharmacy, three pet crematoriums and five veterinary laboratories.
Chair of the Standards Committee, Dr Melissa Donald, said: “We were very aware of the likelihood that both practice staff and clients will increasingly have to isolate over the coming weeks due to direct infection or positive contacts, particularly with the rise in cases amongst school children.
“Added to this, we know there are already workforce pressures across the profession, which will be exacerbated by reduced staffing levels over the Christmas and New Year period.
“We therefore felt it was appropriate to reintroduce these temporary remote prescribing measures at this time to help relieve pressure on practising professionals, and to provide them with the means to continue to look after the health and welfare of their patients in all circumstances.”
As before, the temporary dispensation is subject to the specific guidance found in FAQ4 (www.rcvs.org.uk/covidfaq4), including that veterinary surgeons must be able provide a 24/7 follow-up service involving physical examination, for example where the animal does not improve, or suffers an adverse reaction, or deteriorates, subsequent to the remote prescription of medicines.
The Committee agreed that the position should be reviewed in February 2022 at its next meeting.
During the 60 days before to 30 days after calving, dairy cows experience a dip in their natural immunity, leaving them especially vulnerable to important diseases such as mastitis2, metritis3 and retained placenta.4 With serious cost consequences and implications for cow welfare and productivity, this makes the transition period one of the most challenging yet vital periods for vets to manage with dairy clients.
Imrestor (pegbovigrastim injection) is a pegylated form of the naturally occurring protein cytokine, bovine Granulocyte Colony Stimulating Factor (bG-CSF). Elanco says it helps restore the cow’s natural defences by increasing the number and restoring the function of neutrophils, the primary type of white blood cell that recognizes and kills harmful bacteria.
Fiona Anderson, Technical Vet at Elanco, said: "It’s no secret that a successful transition period is vital for maximising productivity in the next lactation, yet we are still ‘firefighting’ common transition diseases like mastitis rather than focusing on their true cause."
"Vets are under increasing pressure to adopt a more proactive approach, not least to reduce the use of antibiotics in livestock but with few credible alternatives. This can be challenging in dairy herds, particularly around calving when cows are susceptible to multiple disease challenges while their defences are low. Imrestor helps to restore a cow’s own natural immunity and strengthen her ability to defend against infection by a range of mastitis pathogens – thus helping to protect the cow against mastitis when she needs it most."
Available in pre-filled, single-dose syringes, Imrestor is administered with two injections – one seven days prior to the anticipated date of calving and the other within 24 hours after calving – with neither injection requiring a withdrawal period.
Kingsley Baxendale, Ruminant Marketing Manager at Elanco Animal Health said: "It can be extremely frustrating for vets to see their dairy farmers struggling with the stress and hassle of dealing with increased numbers of sick cows during calving; they have enough to deal with at the moment. We’re delighted that Imrestor can provide vets with a tool to help decrease the negative consequences associated with immune-related diseases like mastitis and maximise their herds’ lactation potential."
As part of the launch of Imrestor, Elanco also announced its new 'Pledge To Protect' initiative to encourage vets and farmers to make a pledge symbolising their commitment to address immune suppression in their dairy cows.
The number of pledges will be tracked using a life-sized 2D cow model, pictured above. For each pledge, which can be made online or at events, Elanco will make a £5 donation to The Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (R.A.B.I), which supports farmers in difficulty. As a thank you for showing support, all pledgers will automatically be entered into a weekly prize draw.
To find out more about using Imrestor and how you can make your pledge, visit www.vital90days.co.uk.