Once a month, a new discussion will be posted by the site editor titled: "WHAT WOULD YOU DO (in xxx clinical situation)?"
In addition, VetSurgeon members are strongly encouraged to start your own "WHAT WOULD YOU DO?" discussion at any time.
All members are then invited to share what they would do for the case described, and we also use the opportunity to question which approach offers the best value for pet and owner, and brainstorm new ways of approaching the problem.
Importantly, criticising (as opposed to questioning) anyone's approach is strictly forbidden.
The aim is to share what most vets are doing, question whether there are better ways of doing things and brainstorm fresh ideas, something which is always a beneficial but perhaps especially so in a cost-of-living crisis when, for a variety of reasons, veterinary fees have escalated above and beyond inflation.
As a result, it has become increasingly important to question, for example, the value of certain diagnostics and whether a different approach could offer clients more value.
By way of example, the first discussion was: "WHAT WOULD YOU DO: cat over-grooming central abdomen?", which you can read and take part in here: https://www.vetsurgeon.org/f/clinical-questions/30842/what-would-you-do-cat-over-grooming-ventral-abdomen
The second discussion is now live, and asks: "WHAT WOULD YOU DO: Young dog presented having had its first single or cluster of seizures?
Come and share your thoughts here: https://www.vetsurgeon.org/f/clinical-questions/30875/what-would-you-do-young-dog-presented-having-had-its-first-single-or-cluster-of-seizures
Full rules here: https://www.vetsurgeon.org/f/clinical-questions/30841/what-would-you-do-discussions-rules-and-objectives
Protexin has announced that preliminary data from a clinical trial supports the use of Denamarin® to protect against lomustine (CCNU)-induced hepatotoxicity in dogs.
The study is being performed at the University of California-Davis, Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, and the initial results were recently presented at the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) Annual Forum. Marketed in the UK by Protexin, Denamarin is the combination of S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe) and silybin.
According to the company, most dogs treated with the chemotherapeutic agent CCNU experience liver enzyme elevation. Elevation of certain liver enzymes such as alanine transferase (ALT) is a key indicator of liver trauma; significant enzyme elevation may lead to a discontinuation, delay, or reduction in chemotherapy. The ongoing clinical trial was designed to evaluate Denamarin as a hepatoprotectant in dogs diagnosed with neoplasia that are undergoing CCNU therapy.
The trial consists of two groups of randomly assigned dogs. Dogs in Group 1 receive Denamarin beginning at the start of CCNU therapy. Group 2 dogs do not receive Denamarin unless they develop a Grade IV hepatotoxicity.
Results of a planned interim analysis completed on the first 30 dogs enrolled revealed that starting Denamarin when CCNU therapy was instituted (Group 1 dogs) appeared to provide hepatoprotection. While the mean post-therapy ALT elevation for Group 1 was 119 IU/L (p=0.1), for Group 2 dogs, the post-therapy ALT level was 815 IU/L (p=0.046). Chemotherapy was altered due to elevated liver enzymes in three Group 2 dogs but only one dog in Group 1.
Janine Barlow, Technical Manager at Protexin said: "We are extremely pleased by the initial findings of this research. The use of Denamarin with chemotherapy looks to help protect liver function allowing for successful completion of therapy and hopefully a longer, happier life for the pet. We look forward to the results of the full study."
Protexin says the SAMe and silybin in Denamarin support and maintain hepatic function by mechanisms including increasing levels of glutathione, the liver's main detoxifying agent; promoting protein synthesis; and stimulating bile flow. Denamarin is useful as part of a polymodal approach to the management of liver health.
Denamarin is available for both dogs and cats in an enteric-coated tablet.
PBD says Bovine tuberculosis (bTB) is a growing problem for zoos and wildlife parks, especially with the disease’s potential to spread from one species to another, creating a natural reservoir that is difficult to control.
bTB in zoos came to public attention last year when Devon’s Paignton Zoo detected a single case in one of its antelope. Without access to a test that would deliver rapid results, the zoo had to cull the remaining 10-strong herd of Kafue Flats lechwe.
PBD says the Actiphage test can identify bTB and other mycobacterial diseases in animals before clinical symptoms of infection are observed. It can detect with high specificity the presence of any mycobacteria in animal blood within 6 hours in comparison to culturing mycobacteria, which can take up to 12 weeks.
The technology has been successfully applied to blood samples from 17 different species so far, including deer, goats and badgers as well as exotic animals such as lions, giraffes, antelopes, elephants, tigers, kangaroos and camels. Trials have confirmed PBD Biotech’s assay can detect live mycobacteria in blood or milk samples at very high sensitivity, of less than 10 mycobacterial cells per ml of sample.
The test is being presented to delegates at the British Veterinary Zoological Society (BVZS) Congress in Birmingham today by Dr Ben Swift, Research Fellow at the Royal Veterinary College and R&D Director at PBD Biotech.
He said: "The Actiphage detection method provides a major step change in the detection of viable mycobacteria and has the potential to revolutionise the control and understanding of mycobacterial diseases in zoo animals, wildlife and a range of other species.
"The use of bacteriophage means the test can detect mycobacteria before an immune response is fully developed, giving vets, zoo-keepers and other exotics experts a head-start on the race to catch bTB and other diseases in the hope of preventing the unnecessary cull of protected animals."
The five-part series, which is hosted on Elanco’s customer portal MyElanco.co.uk, covers topics including managing social media communities, how to build a presence using social media advertising and how to respond to new regulations around personal data.
According to a report on Bloomberg, Facebook is reported to be on track to have 32.6 million regular users in the UK despite its falling audience of younger users. Meanwhile Instagram's UK user base was believed to be 16.7 million at the end of 2017. Hence why 81% of small and medium businesses are reported to use some kind of social platform.
Elanco Customer Experience Manager Matthew Rowe said: "The global popularity of social media sites means people now expect businesses to have a social media presence and veterinary practices are no different.
"More veterinary practices are launching business profiles, recognising how vital it is to have a social presence so they can engage with their clients outside of the consultation room. But we realise that it can seem like an intimidating and complex process.
"The workshops have been created to help more vet practices get started with social media and gain more confidence to make the most out of it for the benefit of their business."
To watch the videos, register at MyElanco.co.uk and visit: https://www.myelanco.co.uk/CPD/video-workshop-part1
Eurovet Animal Health has announced that it is bringing a veterinary licensed vitamin K1 (phytomenadione) injectable preparation to the UK.
Eurovet says the new preparation, available from the wholesalers by Monday at the latest, will ensure that the previous supply problems of vitamin K1, will be overcome.
According to the company, the intravenous route is the only route to ensure a 100% bioavailability of vitamin K1 almost immediately and in a crisis situation is the best route of treatment. During anticoagulant poisoning, the coagulation factors are present in the body but are not functional. The faster vitamin K1 enters the blood flow, the quicker the coagulation function is restored.
Ruth Vernon, Technical Services Manager for Eurovet said: "We also plan to bring veterinary licenced vitamin K1 tablets to the UK market later in the year, allowing them to be ordered direct from veterinary wholesalers. The future continuity of supply represents a significant improvement on the current situation."
Anticoagulant rodenticide poisoning is the second most common query received by the VPIS. Alexander Campbell, Head of Service at VPIS, said: "The Veterinary Poisons Information Service receives well over 1000 telephone enquiries per annum from UK veterinary professionals seeking advice on how to manage potential and accidental exposures to anticoagulant rodenticides in a variety of animals - mainly pet dogs. Whilst most cases require basic assessment, first-aid and precautionary laboratory tests, an inevitable few develop serious intoxication and need long-term treatment. Vitamin K1 is a mainstay of therapy in these instances, and the availability of licensed veterinary-specific products in the UK is a major advance. Previously, preparations licensed for human use were often the only option when these could be sourced. Anything that ensures ready supply and facilitates speed of therapy for severe cases has to be welcomed."
There are over 500 anticoagulant rodent killing preparations available across Europe. They are available ready to use, as coated cereals, bait blocks, tracking powders, semolina formats or concentrates (which are reserved for professional use). Following cut backs in local council spending on pest control, the National Pest Technicians Association identified in a recent survey* that there is a 'worrying increase in poorly-managed DIY rodent control'.
*The NPTA National Rodent Survey 2009/2010
The Prince's Trust 'creates life-changing opportunities' for those aged 11-30 and Nick has long-held a passion for making a difference to young lives. He has set up three charities for young people: with learning disabilities; who want to campaign to change the world; and who want to break down the barriers to enjoying nature and the outdoors.
Nick has led the RCVS since September 2012. During his tenure, developments at the College include a new Royal Charter, major governance reform, improved regulation of veterinary nurses, the instigation of Vet Futures, the introduction of the alternative dispute resolution service, significant evolution within the Practice Standards Scheme, the refocusing of RCVS Trust into RCVS Knowledge, the launch of Mind Matters, and the recognition of the College as a Great Place to Work.
Nick said: "It has been a great privilege to be CEO of the College and to work with such amazing staff, such a progressive Council and such a decent and caring profession. It is no surprise to me that vets and vet nurses are among the most trusted professionals in this country, and in my view this is due to their professionalism and to the excellence of the Royal College in maintaining and advancing standards. I hope I have played my part in helping the College and the profession navigate through a period of great change and preparation for significant change to come.
"At The Prince’s Trust I will be focused on the next generation, helping to give young people the confidence and purpose they need to make a success of their lives and the world around them. I know from my own personal experiences of school, and the various charities with which I have been involved, how many young people are not given the best chance in life. I cannot think of a better mission to take on."
RCVS President Chris Tufnell said: "I feel very fortunate to have worked closely with Nick over his five years with the RCVS; he has made a tremendous contribution to the College and our professions. With his energy and drive, he has infused the College with a culture of openness, engagement and dedication and has inspired the team through some impressive achievements.
"Nick’s leadership will enable vets and veterinary nurses to fulfil their potential and it's fitting that he's moving on to a role which benefits the lives of others. Meanwhile, there's a considerable amount of important work being done by the RCVS and I am confident that we have a strong team at Belgravia House to manage this until the new CEO is in post."
The RCVS says its Operational Board will be reflecting on Nick’s successes and the future needs of the College, before developing a specification for the new CEO and a recruitment process over the coming weeks.
Entries to the international awards came from 52 countries around the world. Each was assessed by three judges from a panel of industry leaders who are told the website's mission statement and target audience. They then visit the site, assume the role of a target user and judge according to seven criteria: design, innovation, content, technology, interactivity, copywriting and ease-of-use.
VetSurgeon.org scored the highest marks for content, interactivity and copywriting.
VetSurgeon.org Editor Arlo Guthrie said: "VetSurgeon.org was entered by our team of developers at 4Roads Ltd without me knowing about it, so this came as a very nice surprise. Particularly when you consider that other winners of a Standard of Excellence Award included the BBC, Leica, Mitsubishi Electric, Cisco, Dell, Deloitte and Philip Morris. That's very illustrious company to be in!"
MSD says the new vaccine reduces the clinical signs of respiratory disease and viral shedding from infection with Bovine Respiratory Syncytial Virus (BRSV) and Parainfluenza-3 Virus (Pi3V), and that no other UK-licensed BRD vaccine can be administered earlier in life.
According to the company, it also delivers the fastest on-farm protection, with an onset of immunity after administration of 5 days for BRSV and 7 days for Pi3V. The duration of immunity is 12 weeks for both viruses.
MSD Animal Health ruminant veterinary adviser Dr Kat Baxter-Smith MRCVS said: "Early-age protection of calves through intranasal vaccination can help prevent pneumonia and positively impact a calf’s productive future.
"The sooner and faster these young calves can be protected against viral BRD and the permanent lung damage it causes, the better their potential lifetime productivity, be it in terms of delivering expected milk yield in the dairy herd or growth performance on the beef unit1 2."
Kat added that Bovilis Intranasal RSP Live also activates non-specific immunity – stimulating receptors and cytokines in the innate immune system3: "This equates to protection against viral replication in the nasopharyngeal cavity, reduction of virus shedding and protection of the calf against subsequent clinical symptoms3."
MSD says a practical benefit of Bovilis Intranasal RSP Live to farmers is that it can be used on farm up to six hours after mixing with the solvent, which is the longest of all the available intranasal BRD vaccines. Additionally, the new vaccine is supplied as a farm-friendly, easy-to administer nasal suspension product that doesn’t need a specific applicator – although for maximum flexibility a new easy-clean injector and nozzle kit is available for farmers needing to vaccinate multiple animals.
References:
The RCVS Disciplinary Committee has agreed to adjourn multiple charges against a County Durham-based veterinary surgeon following her undertakings to request removal from the RCVS Register and never to apply to be restored to it.
At the hearing held yesterday, Silke Birgitt Lindridge was charged with disgraceful conduct in a professional respect in regard to four separate allegations, spanning the period of June 2011 to September 2012 whilst in practice at the Safe Hands Veterinary Group. Two of the allegations related to failures to euthanase or arrange the euthanasia of a cat and a dog and being dishonest and/or misleading about these failures, with their respective owners. The other two allegations related to administering a vaccine (Fevaxyn) which was more than two years past its expiry date to a cat, and failure to provide or take adequate steps to provide promptly all the relevant clinical information to a veterinary practice taking over the responsibility for the treatment of a Labrador Cross.
However, before the Disciplinary Committee had heard evidence in respect of these charges, Mrs Lindridge, who did not attend the hearing, had lodged her application for adjournment on the basis that she would request that the Registrar remove her name from the Register with immediate effect and undertake never to apply to be restored to it. The Disciplinary Committee made no enquiry into the facts of the four charges and emphasised that they had neither been proved against, nor admitted by, the respondent.
Removal from the RCVS Register removes a veterinary surgeon's right to practise in the UK. The respondent informed the RCVS that she had no wish to return to the practice of veterinary surgery in this country. Should she subsequently apply to be restored to the Register, the Disciplinary Committee would resume its consideration of the charges, along with the breach of her undertaking.
The Disciplinary Committee was advised that the views of the animal owners involved had been sought and that all had agreed with the proposed course of action.
Speaking on behalf of the Disciplinary Committee, its Chairman, Professor Peter Lees, said: "Having considered the information before it, the Committee has decided it would not be in the public interest to proceed to a full hearing. It is satisfied that the undertakings offered by the respondent [Mrs Lindridge] protect the welfare of animals and uphold the reputation of the profession."
Professor Lees added: "The undertakings offered by the respondent to request the Registrar to remove her name from the Register with immediate effect and never to make an application for restoration to the Register, go beyond any sanction that this Committee could impose at the conclusion of a contested hearing. It does not consider that it would be proportionate for either party to incur the substantial costs of a contested hearing."
Domingo, pictured on the left with Southfields clinical director Henry L’Eplattenier, will join the Essex referral centre as head of cardiopulmonary service at the start of February.
After qualifying in Zaragoza in his native Spain, Domingo completed an internship and several years in practice in the UK, before joining the University of Bristol small animal hospital as a resident.
He then completed a three-year training programme in small animal internal medicine, followed by a four-year programme in cardiology to become an RCVS diplomate and specialist in veterinary cardiology and small animal internal medicine (ECVIM).
After being appointed as head of cardiology and respiratory medicine at Bristol, Domingo joined Dick White Referrals before his move to Southfields.
Domingo said: "I’m delighted to be joining such a progressive and forward-thinking practice as Southfields. It is clear everyone at the practice is dedicated to continuing its growth and dedication to providing the highest possible level of care."
Southfields’ operations manager Daniel Hogan said: "The arrival of Domingo adds another hugely talented specialist to our growing team of experts. He is, without doubt, at the top of his profession and his passion and dedication are traits which will fit perfectly at Southfields as we continue to grow."
Domingo is also a visiting lecturer in cardiology and respiratory medicine at the Catholic University of Valencia, while he is an active clinical researcher and has published widely in many areas of cardiology and respiratory medicine. His areas of special interest are arrhythmias and interventional cardiology.
For more information about Southfields Veterinary Specialists, go to www.southfields.co.uk.
The authors say that whilst it has long been suspected that adverse drug reactions are under-reported, this study is the first to show the scale of the problem, using real data from veterinary clinical records.
For the study, researchers looked for electronic heath records within the Small Animal Veterinary Surveillance Network (SAVSNET) which contained “adverse drug reactions” and “side effects” in the free-text clinical narratives.
The results were then analysed to determine the suspected product, the seriousness and expectedness of the event, and whether the event had been reported to the Veterinary Medicines Directorate or Marketing Authorisation Holders.
Of the 827 cases of suspected adverse drug reactions identified out of a total of 10,565 records reviewed, approximately 90% were not reported.
74% were related to dogs and 70% were listed as “expected” (i.e. already listed in the product information).
The clinical severity of the reaction didn’t appear to impact whether it was reported.
Dr Heather Davies, lead author of the study, said: “As adverse drug reaction reporting rate is directly linked to the regulators ability to mitigate safety issues, this paper is a call to arms encouraging all veterinary professionals to report suspected adverse drug reactions and regulators to make reporting quicker and easier.
"It also the highlights the promise that big real-world data sets hold in enhancing drug safety monitoring processes.”
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/jsap.13721
Vetsonic UK has announced the addition to its range of Vetericyn Super 7+, a brand new umbilical cord dry-out solution for use in calves, lambs, piglets, foals, kids and puppies which is designed as an alternative to iodine.
Vetsonic says that because Super 7+ contains no iodine, it won't encourage licking by iodine-deficient mothers, which can cause serious damage to the navel. It is also an ideal alternative for handlers who are prone to iodine allergies.
The company points to a US study conducted by Auburn University in which Super 7 + demonstrated more than double the desiccation efficacy in the first 24 hours when compared to 7% tincture of iodine.
Super 7+ contains a dye for easy identification of treated animals and the company says it is environmental friendly, safe, non-flammable and non-corrosive with no toxic fumes.
Super 7 + is now available through veterinary wholesalers and direct from Vetsonic (UK) Ltd, either in a 500 ml spray bottle (box of 6) or a 3.78 litre bottle for dipping.
For more information, visit www.vetsonic.com
Themed 'Controlling Disease Threats at Home and from Abroad’, this year's conference will highlight the increasing importance of OVs in safeguarding the UK’s international trade and in protecting human health through disease surveillance and control.
The conference programme includes dedicated lecture streams aimed at large animal, small animal and equine practitioners. Improve says that lecture content has been tailored to cover areas of key relevance for more than 8,000 OVs due to revalidate their qualifications in March 2019. The programme also includes interactive workshops, including drop-in question and answer sessions offering practical advice and guidance on the revalidation process.
An exhibition of products and services for OVs runs alongside the conference.
David Babington MRCVS, Business Development Director at Improve, said: "This conference remains the only event dedicated to the needs of OVs. They receive industry updates from leading figures in the veterinary sector, attend lectures on OV work from experts and, in so doing, work towards their CPD revalidation requirements. We’re currently finalising a packed programme for this year’s conference and urge OVs to take advantage of our time-limited Early Bird offers and register without delay."
For more information on the Official Veterinarian Conference and Exhibition or to register visit: www.officialvet.com
In a European first, Pfizer Animal Health is conducting a major study in over 2000 dogs with Trocoxil, its new NSAID which delivers continuous analgesia for a month.
According to the company, Trocoxil has already been granted a licence by the EMEA and pre-authorization studies have already shown once-monthly Trocoxil to be at least as safe and effective as daily carprofen. However, the monthly dosing regimen represents such a big step from the currently used approach of daily NSAID dosing, that Pfizer has decided to initiate the study before launching the product in order to closely monitor and manage the introduction of Trocoxil to the veterinary market.
Jolian Howell, Associate Director Companion Animal Marketing for Pfizer said: "A drug with such a unique dosing regimen should be introduced in a controlled and managed way, and this study is part of that commitment by Pfizer Animal Health."
This large post-approval study, conducted under veterinary control as a User Experience Study, will enable a similar comparison with carprofen to be made in a much larger patient population. In fact it will be sufficiently large to provide product-specific safety information, such as any differences in the incidence of side-effects.
The randomised, parallel group study is being conducted in more than 100 veterinary clinics throughout France, Germany and the UK. Each dog will receive up to 6 months of treatment during which time it will be assessed every month by the veterinary surgeon.
Trocoxil, a preferential COX-2 inhibitor, has a unique pharmacological profile which means that a single oral dose provides continuous pain relief for a whole month.
Jolian added: "This study will provide veterinary surgeons with an opportunity to experience the benefits of using Trocoxil to treat OA continuously over a period of months. It will also give them the opportunity to assess the benefits this offers the owner."
The new editorial team is comprised of Gareth Arthurs and Rob Pettitt, both RCVS Recognised Specialists in Small Animal Surgery (Orthopaedics) and Gordon Brown (no, not that one), an RCVS Diplomate in Small Animal Surgery (Orthopaedics).
Given the considerable evolution in the diagnosis, understanding and treatment options for many orthopaedic disorders, this second edition includes the investigation of lameness, including the use of force plates and kinematics, the current understanding of elbow dysplasia and the wide array of available treatment options, and diagnostic and surgical arthroscopy.
New, advanced surgical techniques, such as tibial osteotomy for cranial cruciate ligament disease, cementless total hip replacement for hip dysplasia and replacement of the trochlear sulcus for patellar luxation have been covered, together with guidance on the level of training and experience necessary to achieve consistently good results.
The manual is divided into four principle sections:
Lameness investigation
Musculoskeletal disorders
Principles of orthopaedic surgery
Management of specific disorders, ordered by individual joints.
The joint-specific chapters all follow a similar format, comprising the main chapter and then, where relevant, imaging and operative techniques.
Gareth Arthurs, one of three editors, said: "We feel privileged to have worked with such a broad range of talented authors whose combined international skills, knowledge and experience is impressive and very difficult to match. It has truly been a privilege to work with such a team of inspiring veterinary surgeons with expertise in various fields, and we are confident that the talent of each individual shines through their chapter".
The second edition of the BSAVA Manual of Canine and Feline Musculoskeletal Disorders is available from the BSAVA website: www.bsava.com or by phone: 01452 726700. The online edition is available from: www.bsavalibrary.com
Sheldon is managing director of RVC Veterinary Practices Ltd and principal at Acorn House Veterinary Hospital in Bedford. He has been with the practice for 14 years. A graduate of Cambridge University he has a particular interest and a GP Certificate in ophthalmology. He has been a member of the BSAVA Board for the past five years and a volunteer since graduation.
Sheldon says that during his Presidency he will focus on shaping Congress 2022 into the ultimate veterinary get-together as the country begins its release from the challenges and constraints of the pandemic. He said: "With more than 3,300 registrations, the turnout for and particularly the engagement with BSAVA Virtual Congress 2021 was phenomenal, given the challenges the profession is currently facing as a result of the pandemic.
“We intend to build on this for BSAVA Congress 2022, by deploying a cleverly blended format to retain the high degree of accessibility and flexibility that delegates have so enjoyed this year. We will be releasing further details on BSAVA Congress 2022 in the early summer.”
Sheldon says he will also be focusing on BSAVA’s support for the small animal veterinary community as it emerges from the pandemic.
"The profession has shown incredible resilience and dynamism in responding to the changing demands of our patients but we need to be careful that this is not at the expense of our own wellbeing. BSAVA’s community support, practical education and science resources and leadership are all there to support the profession as it pivots to a new way of working.”
BSAVA Virtual Congress 2021 content is accessible for another 6 weeks. Visit https://www.bsavaevents.com/bsavacongress2021/en/page/home.
The pads contain ophytrium and chlorhexidine at 3%. Ophytrium is a purified natural ingredient from Ophiopogon japonicus which, Ceva says, strengthens the mechanical skin barrier1, restores the balance of protective microbial flora2 and reduces irritation, while soothing the skin1. Chlorhexidine is both antibacterial and antifungal.
Ceva says that Douxo S3 Pyo pads, which come in packs of 30, provide antibacterial and antifungal efficacy within one minute and are free from soap, parabens, sulphates, phthalates, colourants and nanoparticles.
They are available in a new, hypoallergenic ‘summertime’ fragrance which pet owners liken to coconut and vanilla.
The pads add to the Douxo S3 Pyo range, which also consists of shampoo and a mousse.
Andrew Fullerton BVSc (Hons) MRCVS, product manager for Douxo S3 at Ceva said: "The new Douxo S3 range has been well received by both veterinary professionals and their clients since its launch, who find that the products are not only effective and well tolerated, but also easy-to-use. The Douxo S3 Pyo pads will enhance this range by offering an easy-to-administer antiseptic action while hydrating and maintaining the skin’s ecosystem.”
For further information, contact cevauk@ceva.com, your local territory manager or visit https://www.douxo.com/uk/Pet-Skin-Care/douxo-s3.
References
You can complete the PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) survey at: yougov.com/pdsa.
Rebecca Ashman, PDSA Policy and Campaigns Manager, said: "Since 2011, our PAW Report has provided valuable insight into pet health and wellbeing across the UK.
"It delivers a vital evidence base for education programmes, campaigns and collaborative work in the veterinary and welfare sectors. It also enables us to monitor the impact of welfare initiatives on pet wellbeing issues which are of most concern to the veterinary profession.
"The survey only takes 15 minutes to complete, and by taking part, you’ll be helping us to capture an accurate picture of the welfare issues that are of the biggest concern for the veterinary profession. You can also be entered into a prize draw to win a GoPro HERO5 Session Action Camera."
For more information and to download the 2017 PAW Report, visit pdsa.org.uk/pawreport.
Amongst the speakers were Catherine Oxtoby MRCVS, Risk Manager at the Veterinary Defence Society, and Dr Huw Stacey, director of clinical services at Vets4Pets.
Dr Stacey explained how Vets4Pets and Companion Care practices are embracing a culture of sharing information when things don’t go according to plan in practice.
He said: "We all face challenges in the workplace, and this event focused on how different professions can share ideas and good practice and how they find solutions to any challenges.
"The culture of aviation and maritime is one of minimising risk and putting safety first, and it is fascinating to compare their approach to that found in medicine and veterinary.
"One common theme we discussed was the wellbeing of both professionals and patients or clients, with tiredness being at the top of the list of things that can negatively affect wellbeing and performance.
"Both aviation and maritime recognised that long shifts, particularly overnight, needed to be reduced in order to improve the outcome for everyone.
"In veterinary and human medicine, tiredness and long shifts are often worn as a badge of honour and being tired at work was something that should be admired, rather than addressed.
"But, tired vets are effectively neglecting themselves and their own wellbeing, which in turn leads to pets not receiving the best level of care in practice.
"This is something we’re taking seriously at Vets4Pets and Companion Care, and we’re currently looking at ways to decrease the risk of overworked and tired vets and vet nurses."
Another area of discussion was around the reporting of near misses and when things don’t go right, and how veterinary professionals need to identify and share the learnings from these events, not only within their practice, but with the wider profession too.
He said: "We need to continually emphasise the concept of a ‘just’ culture, to ensure our colleagues feel confident about reporting incidents open and honestly."
"It is not in the interests of the professional, the patient or the client to bottle things up, and at Vets4Pets and Companion Care we’re encouraging all of our practices to adopt the VDS VetSafe system, which provides a mechanism for sharing incident reports across the profession, enabling us all to learn from them to the benefit of our patients."
A new solution to a problem vets encounter when using a conventional, usually human health, laryngoscope on small animals has been devised by Prof Paul Flecknell of Newcastle University in collaboration with Alstoe Animal Health.
Called the FlecknellTM , this small animal laryngoscope uses a specially-designed, streamline, slimmed-down blade to maximise the view of the larynx, particularly with rabbits in mind. According to Alstoe, the new design also greatly reduces the risk of damage to an animal's gums or pharynx as the blade is inserted.
Prof Flecknell, MA, VetMB, PhD, DECLAM, DLAS, DECVA, (Hon) DACLAM, (Hon) FRCVS said: "Many practitioners have complained that existing blades were not suitable for small animal work and they were not happy with using a blind technique, as they really wanted to see the larynx and intubate under direct vision.
"So, over several years of development, we worked through prototypes and changed both the shape of the blade and the type and position of the light source. As well as trying the prototypes ourselves, Alstoe carried out trial work with vets in practice, resulting in this final design, which we think is much easier to use than other blades currently on the market.
"We hope this will encourage vets to intubate more rabbits, since this will enable them to be anaesthetised more safely. One of the commonest problems seen is depressed respiration progressing to apnoea, and trying to assist ventilation using a face mask often results only in inflation of the stomach, making matters worse. Once an endotracheal tube is in place, ventilation can be assisted easily if needed."
Niall McFerran from Alstoe said: "The Flecknell still requires some practice to master the use of the blade, and so we have produced a DVD and leaflet demonstrating its use. The Flecknell blade can be used to intubate a range of small animals, cats, dogs, as well as the original target rabbits.
"We were delighted to have worked with such an eminent specialist as Prof Flecknell and his team on a genuinely vet-led need to help with animal welfare. And this is just the start, as 2009 is going to be the busiest ever year for new product introductions for Alstoe Animal Health."
For more information, contact Alstoe Animal Health www.alstoe.co.uk
Tuloxxin contains Tulathromycin and Krka says it is based on the same formulation as the market leader.
In cattle Tuloxxin is administered using a single subcutaneous injection; in sheep Tuloxxin is licensed for use in the treatment of foot rot associated with Dichelobacter nodosus and also in pigs for swine respiratory disease (SRD) administered via a single intra-muscular injection. Krka says it is fast-acting, and that the one dose formulation supports compliance and so reduces stress to herds and flocks.
Charlotte Read, Key Account Manager – Farm, at Krka, said: "Whenever Krka launches a generic product, we aim to add some extra value to it. Tuloxxin is a good example. It is based on a tried and trusted active and delivers efficacy; with formulation and delivery method technology at exceptional value. We hope its launch will support vets in their appropriate choice of antibiotic for specific cases. In so doing, they will be protecting their clients’ cattle and profitability while also playing their part in reducing antimicrobial use.”
Tuloxxin is available now from all wholesalers.
Andrew Harrison, a partner at Three Counties Equine Hospital in Gloucestershire, has been appointed as the new President of the British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA) for 2014/15.
Andrew took over the role from Paul Jepson at the end of BEVA Congress last week. Mark Bowen, Associate Professor of Veterinary Internal Medicine at The University of Nottingham School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, becomes President Elect.Andrew said: "It is a privilege and an honour to take up the presidential reins for the next 12 months. It is unrealistic to expect to "change the world" in such a short time frame so the plan is to target certain areas, such as progressing New Safer Horse Rescue courses, strengthening BEVA's relationship with the BHA and moving forward with the regulation of Musculoskeletal Paraprofessionals. Not least it is a priority this year to make sure we keep aspiring vets realistically informed about future employment in our profession given the proliferation of undergraduate places available at UK and English speaking mainland European vet schools."
For further information visit www.beva.org.uk.
The new course is called Veterinary Science: Accelerated Graduate Entry (BVSc), and will welcome its first students in September 2019.
The school says the course responds to calls for innovation in veterinary education while upholding current best practice in adult education to support independent, self-directed, and collaborative learning.
Designed for graduate learners, the programme will see students guided through case-based, tutor-facilitated teaching and learning.
The programme is based on a collaborative approach, where students can work together to gain practical experience from BVS clinics and clinical research.
Students will be taught in new purpose-built teaching facilities at the school in Langford, North Somerset.
The Langford Campus also encompasses equine and small animal hospitals, a dairy farm, diagnostic laboratories, and farm animal, small animal and equine practices.
Professor Richard Hammond, Head of Bristol Veterinary School said: "As someone who was a graduate entry veterinary student myself, I feel passionately about providing opportunities to those who make the choice to train as a vet later in their educational journey.
"This new programme, delivered in purpose built, state-of-the-art facilities will focus on a more student-centred, case-based approach in small groups and with lots of tutor contact and support. We look forward to welcoming our first cohort of students to Bristol in September 2019".
Elanco is highlighting new research which shows that using monensin in dairy cows at high risk of developing subclinical ketosis reduces curative antibiotic use by 25%.
According to the company, good herd management before calving is known to mitigate antimicrobial use in cows suffering from subclinical ketosis related conditions, but to date little research has quantified it.
The new research, by the University of Toulouse, was presented to leading cattle vets, academics and representatives of the pharmaceutical industry by veterinary cattle health specialist, Professor Didier Raboisson at the European Buiatrics Forum in Rome in October.1 It showed that using a monensin bolus in cows at high risk of getting subclinical ketosis led to a 25% reduction in antibiotics to treat and cure conditions associated with the metabolic condition.
Fiona Anderson MRCVS of Elanco said: "Responsible use of antimicrobials must be the target for veterinary medicine. Reducing use by whatever means could help improve the antimicrobial resistance situation. This new study shows that using monensin, which is available in the form of a Kexxtone bolus, is a powerful way to cut antibiotic use in the dairy herd. This is in addition to monensin already proven to be a valuable tool to reduce the risk of ketosis and subclinical ketosis and its associated losses in dairy herd productivity and profitability."
Subclinical ketosis is very common. It can affect up to 30% of cows in early lactation with a large variation between herds.2 It can be very costly for a dairy herd. A study from 2015 found that for a 100 cow herd with 30% ketosis, the direct and indirect costs can be around £10,416 or around £347 per affected cow.3
Cows affected by subclinical ketosis are at a higher risk of getting mastitis and metritis. They are also at higher risk of developing displaced abomasum, retained placenta and cystic ovaries and consequently face a higher culling risk. Subclinical ketosis also lowers milk production, reduces conception rates and lengthens calving intervals.4
If ketosis is an issue in a dairy herd, targeted administration of monensin in a Kexxtone bolus to cows at high risk of developing ketosis reduces the incidences of ketosis by 74%.6
The bolus is given three weeks before calving and provides coverage during the main risk period for the condition. Kexxtone uses monensin to improve rumen function and increase glucose delivery. This ultimately increases the energy available and buffers the dairy cow against the tendency to drop into negative energy balance.5
To make a big difference to clients’ profitability, Fiona encourages vets to not just consider the traditional nutritional intervention and the emergency treatment of ketosis cases, but to develop an effective strategy to highlight cows at risk of subclinical ketosis and to take targeted preventative action. She said: "Vets who can offer positive interventions to subclinical ketosis and its associated losses in the dairy herd are going to be increasingly important to their clients’ herd health planning."
It has long been known that diabetes is a disease that requires an individualized treatment protocol in order to manage the condition. The Insuvet range includes Insuvet Lente with medium duration and onset, Insuvet Protamine Zinc with longer duration and onset (an ideal choice for some cat owners who may find twice daily injections problematic), and Insuvet Neutral, which should be kept in every practice to manage acute diabetic ketoacidosis.
Susan Mitchell, Insuvet Product Manager said: "A flexible approach allows patients to be managed more effectively; both from the point of view of the patient's needs but also those of the owner too. People have increasingly busy schedules and providing a solution that fits with lifestyle and helps deal with any diabetic crises that do occasionally occur, will ensure successful long term management of the condition."
The team at Pfizer has been busy undergoing intensive technical training and is equipped to provide assistance with diabetic cases. Regional support is now available in the shape of dedicated Area Veterinary Managers who can provide practices with comprehensive support, backed up with a national technical support helpline.
The company has available a wide range of support materials that include stabilisation protocols, blood glucose monitoring charts and communication aids that explain the condition to the client, with the promise of an even more comprehensive range of exciting and innovative aids to come in the next few months.
For further information on the Insuvet range vets and nurses should contact their Pfizer Business Account Manager. For advice on individual cases or any other technical questions about diabetes call the Technical Support Line on 0845 3008034.