There were two charges against Mr Staton, the first being that he failed to comply with eight requests from the RCVS sent by letter between November 2014 and August 2017 in relation to his continuing professional development (CPD) records.
The second charge was that between 1st January 2012 and 7th November 2017 he failed to have professional indemnity insurance or equivalent arrangements in place.
Mr Staton’s request to adjourn the hearing and agree undertakings was not opposed by the RCVS. The Committee had regard to advice of the Legal Assessor and submissions from both counsel for the RCVS and legal advisor for Mr Staton. In accepting Mr Staton’s request for adjournment and his undertakings no admissions have been made in respect of the charges against him.
In deciding whether to accept the adjournment and undertakings, the Committee was asked to consider a number of factors including Mr Staton’s age and health, his unblemished career of more than 50 years, the fact that he had closed his practice and retired from clinical practice on 31 March 2018 and that he had no intention of practising as a veterinary surgeon again. For those reasons the Committee felt it would be disproportionate to take Mr Staton through a full hearing.
Ian Green, chairing the Committee and speaking on its behalf, said: "In coming to this decision the Committee considered the respondent’s application to adjourn this inquiry in the light of the evidence he adduced. It had regard to the interests of justice, the public interest in ensuring high standards are maintained by veterinary surgeons and the need to ensure the protection of animals and their welfare."
Should Mr Staton seek to apply to rejoin the Register then the proceedings will become active again and a Disciplinary Committee hearing will be scheduled.
One of the consequences of veterinary price inflation has been a backlash from owners against vets, vet nurses and receptionists, so the first film kicks off by explaining why large vet bills are not the fault of the vet standing in front of them when their dog gets ill.
Currently, a further eight films are now in production, each looking at a different reason why the costs of veterinary care have increased and suggesting ways that owners can mitigate the impact. They are:
VetSurgeon.org Publishing Editor, Arlo Guthrie, who presents the films, said: "Above all, the aim here is to foster a better understanding between veterinary professionals and owners.
"I do hope the vets, nurses and support staff who have been bearing the brunt will feel my films are helpful.
"If you do feel they make useful points, then you need to share and 'like' the hell out of them on all the different social media platforms, in order that they reach the largest number of people.
"And if you have feedback about the content, or ideas for other topics we should cover, then come and post here: https://www.vetsurgeon.org/f/non-clinical-questions/31062/why-have-vet-bills-gone-up-so-much/245723"
The film is available here:
TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@vetsurgeon.vetnurse/video/7426457335880617248
YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/lg_EeamSbSI
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/reel/927062139289036
LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/vetsurgeon-org_veterinarysurgeon-veterinarynurse-activity-7252420794004205568-LzE3/
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DBM5i2XtfOB/
Hysolv says the vaccine, which was developed by IDT Biologika, has been used successfully in Germany, where 1.7 million doses have been prescribed. The company says field trials have shown that vaccination not only protected against clinical signs of influenza but also resulted in improvements in reproduction and piglet performance.
Two 1 ml doses of the inactivated vaccine can be injected intramuscularly three weeks apart to pigs from 56 days old, providing immunisation to the majority of animals within seven days.
Hysolv director, Geoff Hooper said: "Swine flu can be devastating to a herd and this vaccine will broaden protection, particularly when used with our existing vaccine Respiporc FLU3, which we are strongly advising."
Respiporc FLU3 protects against three other strains of swine flu (H1N1, H1N2 and H3N2). Hysolv says that when used together, the two vaccines protect pigs against the most relevant strains in the British Isles.
Geoff added: "There have been several flu pandemics throughout the years – the latest in 2009. It is not possible to predict the emergence of a pandemic strain accurately but this vaccine combined with Respiporc FLU3 will greatly decrease the chance of pigs becoming infected."
Elanco Companion Animal Health has launched Trifexis, an oral tablet to provide dogs with three-in-one protection against fleas, intestinal nematodes and heartworm.
Trifexis contains two active ingredients: spinosad, which is active against fleas, and milbemycin oxime, which is active against intestinal nematodes and heartworm.
Pointing to a survey which found that two out of three owners prefer administering medication in tablet form, Elanco says it is offering the prescription-only product in a beef-flavoured tablet format that delivers vet practices with an exclusive solution many pet owners would choose.2
Matthew Rowe, senior brand manager at Elanco Companion Animal Health said: "By combining spinosad with milbemycin oxime, Trifexis provides the fast speed of flea kill already experienced with Comfortis (killing 100% of fleas within four hours), but now with the added protection against the hidden danger of intestinal nematodes and heartworm disease; of specific concern for owners whose dogs travel to or from heartworm endemic areas."
Prof. Patrick Bourdeau, Dip ECVD-Dip EVPC, of the Veterinary School of Nantes (Oniris), France, added: "Until now, the treatment of intestinal nematodes has often been overlooked. Recent independent research shows that in Europe a majority of dogs (70%) are treated against fleas; whereas the year-round (and potentially zoonotic) threat of intestinal nematodes is commonly overlooked, with only 49% of dogs being treated.2 The benefit of Trifexis is that it aids treatment compliance against these important yet overlooked worms by providing a tablet format, combined with flea control."
In addition, Elanco highlights the fact that the tablet format satisfies a need for those owners who prefer the cleanliness and assured efficacy of tablet administration, have young children or pets in the home, dogs that swim or are bathed frequently or dogs with skin sensitivity or dermatological issues.
For further information about Elanco's new Trifexis three-in-one oral tablet treatment, contact your local Elanco Companion Animal Health key account manager or telephone 01256 353131.
References
Dechra Veterinary Products has announced that it will be launching Zycortal, a new medication for the treatment of canine hypoadrenocorticism at the BSAVA Congress in April.
Zycortal is a prolonged-release suspension used as replacement therapy for mineralocorticoid deficiency in dogs with Addison’s disease. Dechra says it has proved highly effective in clinical trials with more than 80% of dogs responding positively to treatment1.
Zycortal contains desoxycortone pivalate (DOCP) which Dechra says controls serum electrolytes more effectively than fludrocortisone2 (the human treatment currently prescribed for dogs with Addison’s disease) and is considered the preferential drug for mineralocorticoid supplementation.
Zycortal is the only European licensed treatment for canine hypoadrenocorticism and adds to Dechra’s existing endocrinology range.
Visitors to the BSAVA Congress will be able to find out more about Zycortal at the Dechra stand (500). Delegates are also invited to attend a presentation by Professor Ian Ramsey BVSc PhD DSAM DipECVIM-CA FHEA MRCVS on Saturday, April 9, at 11.10am.
The presentation, New developments in the diagnosis and management of Addison’s disease aims to give delegates an insight into the condition.
Dechra Brand Manager Craig Sankey said: "We are very excited to be able to bring Zycortal to veterinary professionals in the UK. Addison’s disease can be very hard to diagnose as it mimics so many other illnesses.
"Each injection of Zycortal lasts approximately one month, providing long-term control of primary Addison’s disease. The prognosis for dogs with Addison’s disease is excellent provided that treatment is maintained for life. Our team will be on hand at the BSAVA Congress to explain and discuss the benefits that Zycortal can bring to their day to day practice in the fight against this illness."
Fitzpatrick Referrals has announced the launch of a new cancer and soft tissue surgery referral service headed by Professor Nick Bacon (pictured right) and Dr Laurent Findji.
Professor Bacon and Dr Findji are American and European Board-Certified Surgeons respectively, with extensive experience in cancer care and soft tissue surgery innovation.
Professor Bacon joins the service directly from his post as Head of Oncology at the University of Florida, College of Veterinary Medicine. He will also take up the position of part-time Chair of Oncology at the new University of Surrey School of Veterinary Medicine.
Dr Findji joins the team from his prior role as director of the VRCC in Essex, bringing his expertise in cancer and soft tissue surgery advancements.
Professor Noel Fitzpatrick, founder of Fitzpatrick Referrals, said: "With these two eminent and globally recognised Specialists leading the new service, the UK will now be able to provide an innovative approach and comprehensive diagnosis, treatment, management and prognosis for all cancer and soft-tissue patients. The service will also be able to use the additional expertise available through the University of Surrey and both Specialists will be available for referring vets to discuss cases and to offer advice on the innovative treatment options available."
Professor Stuart Carmichael, the new service's director, said: "We would only introduce a service like this when we know it can provide the best options, the most comprehensive care and the highest level of expertise available. This is a referral service which will change the way that cancer patients are dealt with in the UK."
Noel added: "It's a testament to the reputation of Fitzpatrick Referrals and the University of Surrey, our partner in education, that we have been able to attract talents as great as Nick and Laurent. This is an exciting time not only for the hospital, but also for first-opinion practices throughout the UK who can avail of this world-class opportunity to offer a potentially life-saving service to their clients for their patients."
The service will operate initially from a self-contained clinic at the existing Fitzpatrick Referrals Orthopaedic + Neurology Hospital in Surrey and will be accepting patients from 1st October.
Michael qualified from the University of Glasgow in 2009 and then worked in first opinion practice in Buckinghamshire and Northern Ireland. He then returned to the University of Glasgow in 2012 to further his training and experience in oncology by completing four years of additional training. He completed an ECVIM residency in oncology in 2016 and became a Diplomate of the European College of Veterinary Internal Medicine and a European Specialist in Oncology in 2017. Michael worked at a private referral practice in Surrey prior to joining Fitzpatrick Referrals. Earlier this year, Michael was awarded a Masters degree in Veterinary Medicine. This additional qualification researched canine mast cell tumours.
Michael said: "I am absolutely delighted to have joined Fitzpatrick Referrals Oncology and Soft Tissue hospital. I have had a long-standing ambition to work as part of the fantastic team here since visiting the hospital during my specialist training in 2015. At this visit, I immediately felt at home in a group of people driven to deliver the very best compassionate care for dogs and cats.
"My ambition is to develop the very best ways to minimise the impact that cancer has on animals. I know that Fitzpatrick Referrals is the best environment for me to be able to achieve this. Throughout the hospital, there is an amazing positive attitude and a collective drive to improve the overall care we can give to pets with cancer. I am also excited by the opportunity to be able to help others to achieve their goals in improving cancer care for pets."
The company says that of the 249 responses to its Puppy Tooth Census received so far (of which 40% were from vets, 21% vet nurses, 2% other veterinary professionals and 37% puppy owners), 25% were poodle crosses.
This, says the company, is in line with anecdotal reports that vets are seeing more dental conditions in poodle cross puppies.
VisioCare is now calling for more vets to take part in the survey at https://bit.ly/Visiocare_PuppyToothCensus.
With very few studies that address dental disease in puppies and a lack of current data, it is hoped that the survey will advance understanding and improve oral health and welfare.
Every veterinary respondent will be given access to a pack of educational materials to use in the consulting room, including digital animations and dental images that can be used to enhance client communication around the topic, together with explainer videos and puppy owner fact sheets and leaflets.
In addition, each month for the next three months, all responses will be entered into a prize draw for the chance to win a £50 John Lewis gift voucher.
VisioCare is also offering a free webinar: "Challenges in Puppy Dentistry and Malocclusion" presented by Ingrid Tundo, Head of the Dentistry and Oral Surgery Department at the Royal (Dick) Vet School, viewable at: https://veterinarywebinars.com/register/puppy-dentistry-malocclusion.
Finally, Nicky Diver-Clarke, Marketing Manager at VisioCare Services is also offering a free marketing CPD session for practices that want to find the best way to amplify awareness of the Puppy Tooth Census within their practice.
Anyone interested in accessing the free support can contact her at nicky@visiocareservices.co.uk.
Morally injurious events are defined as experiences which violate one's moral or ethical code.
The research will consider the types of moral injuries veterinary professionals might encounter, their prevalence, the perceptions amongst professionals around how these moral injuries come about, and what support is needed when they occur.
The project is being led by psychologists Professor Neil Greenberg, Dr Dominic Murphy and Dr Victoria Williamson.
The research revolves around an online questionnaire which the researchers say should take no more than 20 minutes to complete: https://tinyurl.com/y7ue5ezw
Victoria said: “If you have experienced an upsetting event in your veterinary role, it would be really helpful if you could fill in our questionnaire which is anonymous and confidential. As part of this study, we are particularly interested in hearing about experiences that may have caused you to question the kind of person you are, or the kind of world we live in. These are things that you feel you may have done or failed to do, or things that others did or failed to do.
"We hope our results will help us to find better ways of meeting the needs of veterinarians in future so we would encourage veterinary professionals to also circulate this study to colleagues. Some participants may be invited to take part in a follow-up telephone interview; however, we would like to assure you this element of the project is completely voluntary.”
The survey will be followed by 1 hour telephone interviews with those who have indicated they are happy to be interviewed about their thoughts, feelings and beliefs since their challenging experience and how the event may have affected them.
The results of the study will be published in scientific journals and summaries will be made available for the relevant stakeholders with the aim of informing future research studies to support veterinary wellbeing, as well as clinical practice and policy.
Those who wish to find out more about the study before completing the survey can contact Victoria at: victoria.williamson@kcl.ac.uk
Shockwave therapy, or Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) to give it its full nomenclature, sends mechanical shock waves into the affected area to stimulate the natural healing process by triggering the body’s own repair mechanisms.
The therapy is being spearheaded at Willows by Kinley Smith (pictured right), an RCVS and European specialist in small animal surgery. He said: "Shockwave therapy is a whole new line of treatment and has proved a spectacular success.
"It’s an excellent technique for dealing with certain orthopaedic conditions and there’s no invasive surgery, no wound to heal and no risk of infection so it really is a win-win-win procedure.
"It is particularly effective in the treatment of ligament and tendon injuries.
"There can be immediate pain relief for the dog; after two weeks we start to see lasting benefits and in four weeks we normally see a clear improvement.
"The added bonuses are we can normally reduce any medication; the dog can enjoy more exercise plus it is not as costly as undergoing an operation.
"Surgery is still essential in some of the more acute, problematic cases but shockwave therapy has been a terrific development in helping us provide an alternative treatment in a lot of soft tissue, muscle and bone conditions."
For more information, visit www.willows.uk.net.
A man who worked as a veterinary surgeon in Wiltshire, despite being neither qualified nor registered with RCVS, has received a 20-month sentence at Swindon Crown Court.
Peter Keniry (also known as Patrick Keniry), from Great Yarmouth, had been practising under the name of a properly qualified and legitimately registered veterinary surgeon, and was arrested on 23 August. At his initial hearing in Swindon Magistrates' Court, Mr Keniry pleaded guilty to charges of fraud by misrepresentation and unlawfully practising as a veterinary surgeon, and was released on bail.
At the Crown Court on Friday, Mr Keniry also pleaded guilty to additional charges before being sentenced. It is understood he will serve a number of months in prison, before being released on licence for the remaining period.
The RCVS assisted Wiltshire police in their apprehension of Keniry in August, having been alerted the previous day to his fraudulent activities. Mr Keniry is no stranger to the College or the police, having already been dealt with in 1998, 2001 and 2005 for similar offences. On each occasion, Mr Keniry has impersonated a member of the College whose name is legitimately on the Register, which makes it difficult even for practices that do check the credentials of prospective employees to pick up a problem.
Commenting on the recent sentencing, Gordon Hockey, RCVS Head of Professional Conduct said: "We are satisfied that the Court has clearly recognised the risk posed to both animal welfare and public safety by bogus veterinary surgeons. Anyone working as a veterinary surgeon when not qualified to do so, risks a custodial sentence.
"Mr Keniry's continued pattern of re-offending shows him to be a very convincing fraudster. By publicising his photograph, we hope to help any potential employer or locum agency reduce the chances of this happening again," he added.
Vetoquinol has announced the introduction of Melovem to the UK market. Melovem is a new injectable preparation containing 5mg/ml meloxicam which is licensed for use in pigs and young cattle.
According to the company, meloxicam is the most widely used veterinary non steroidal anti-inflammatory injection in the UK. Presented in 100ml bottles, with a lower dose formulation, Melovem can be a cost-effective NSAID solution to leave on-farm.
Mark Leddy from Vetoquinol said: "We are pleased to be the distributors of Melovem in the UK. Melovem provides vets and farmers with a new, cost-effective meloxicam injection that is suitable for on-farm use."
Contact your Vetoquinol representative for more information on Melovem, or call Vetoquinol on 0800 1608197.
It is believed to be the first time the Royal Society of Medicine Pain Section Council, which comprises medical practitioners and consultants, has appointed a veterinary surgeon as President.
The Royal Society of Medicine is one of the country's major providers of postgraduate medical education and presents a neutral platform for informed debate about important, often controversial, healthcare topics.
The RSM has 56 Sections, encompassing all medical specialties. Membership of the RSM is diverse and whilst primarily catering for the needs of Medical Doctors its membership includes nurses, dentists, veterinary surgeons and other health professionals such as physiotherapists.
Louise took over the two-year Presidency on 1st October. Her immediate predecessor was Dr Anthony Ordman, Consultant in Pain Medicine and founder of the Pain Medicine Clinic at the Royal Free Hospital, London.
Louise said: "I am delighted to have the honour of serving as Section President and together as a Section Council we hope to build the profile of the RSM as a source of education for veterinary as well as medical specialists."
The support pack features information on the role anaesthetic induction agents can play in the maintenance of anaesthesia to help veterinary surgeons provide appropriate care for their patients.
The pack includes a user guide to achieving the best outcome when using Alfaxan for the induction and maintenance of anaesthesia, a summary of peer-reviewed key clinical papers on the use of Alfaxan and how it can be used for the maintenance of anaesthesia, an article discussing the use of intravenous agents to maintain anaesthesia in the dog and cat, frequently asked questions and an Alfaxan dosage chart for CRI (Constant Rate Infusion) and intermittent bolus.
To download the pack, visit www.alfaxan.co.uk.
Richard Beckwith, country manager for Jurox (UK) Ltd. said: "We have received a significant increase in enquiries following the isoflurane supply issues.
"The new support pack will provide veterinary professionals with comprehensive information on Alfaxan to help practices develop options in providing appropriate anaesthesia for patients."
For more information, call Jurox customer services on 0800 500 3171, or e-mail: info@jurox.co.uk.
The technology, developed by US firm SignalPET, sends X-rays through an AI machine algorithm to get a more or less instantaneous report, rather than needing a radiology specialist to analyse results, which can take up to three days.
IVC starting trialling the system with 22 of its practices last November and it quickly became clear that there were huge benefits, including saving time for clinicians, cost, and improving confidence in the diagnosis.
The majority of IVC's trial teams said they viewed the technology as a positive diagnostic aid, supporting their own professional opinion.
It also served as a learning tool, increasing the confidence and clinical independence of younger or newly qualified vets.
Sarah Merrell, Clinical Director at Lincvet, a group of IVC Evidensia practices in Lincoln and one of the trial clinics, said: “SignalPET has proved really valuable – giving us excellent support for radiography.
"It has been used by both our highly experienced and newly graduated clinicians to get a second set of ‘eyes’ on our cases giving reassurance and support when reading our radiographs.
“Overall, it has improved clinician confidence, reduced the pressure on senior vets, given us an additional tool for training and development, and greatly enhanced client understanding of our findings.”
Alistair Cliff, IVC Evidensia’s Deputy Chief Medical Officer, said: “The AI radiology process developed by SignalPET represents a real revolution in how results are analysed.
"The overwhelming success of our initial trial in November means we are confident in pushing ahead with rolling out the technology in the UK this year and eventually, in Europe too."
The company says that CircoMax Myco offers the longest lasting combined protection on the EU market against PCV2 and M. hyopneumoniae pathogens. This reduces the PCV2 viral load in blood and lymphoid tissues, PCV2 fecal shedding, lymphoid tissue lesions associated with PCV2 infection, and lung lesions associated with M. hyopneumoniae infections.
Pig protection was demonstrated against porcine circovirus genotypes 2a, 2b and 2d and lasts for at least 23 weeks after vaccination in fattening pigs for both PCV2 and M. hyopneumoniae.
Monica Balasch, Director, Global Biologicals Development at Zoetis, said: "Porcine circovirus type 2 has demonstrated high mutation and recombination rates and is known to be rapidly evolving in Europe and worldwide. Commercial PCV2 vaccines have been efficacious in controlling the clinical disease, but there is a growing genetic gap between field viruses and vaccines. So far, all vaccines in Europe have been based on one single genotype, PCV2a, while today the most prevalent viruses found belong to other genotypes: PCV2b and especially PCV2d.
“We believe that there is a need for new vaccines, like CircoMax Myco which includes two PCV2 genotypes for a broader coverage. We found excellent results showing reduction of body weight gain losses in field trials in the EU. This innovative one-dose vaccine is a new tool for veterinarians and producers that may improve their PCV2 and M. hyopneumoniae control programs, especially in the face of multi-genotype PCV2 infections.”
Alvaro Aldaz, Director, Global Commercial Development, Swine, Zoetis, said: "For many years, intensive vaccination has contributed to selective pressure and emergence of new PCV2 genotypes. European pig farms are often infected with more than one genotype and subclinical disease is frequent. Commercial vaccines are all based on PCV2a genotype while CircoMax Myco is the first vaccine that includes two PCV2 genotypes (a & b), and the inventive M. hyopneumoniae purified fraction. It is formulated with MetaStim for active immunization, resulting in 23 weeks of protection against these threats."
CircoMax Myco contains inactivated recombinant chimeric porcine circovirus type 1 containing the porcine circovirus type 2a open reading frame 2 (ORF2) protein, inactivated recombinant chimeric porcine circovirus type 1 containing the porcine circovirus type 2b ORF2 protein and inactivated Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae, strain P-5722-3.
The company says Taurador Pour-on provides a stress-free, easy to use treatment, with persistent activity against a large number of cattle parasites, therefore ensuring effective coverage over long periods of the grazing season.
Matthew Swanborough BVSc MRCVS, Veterinary Advisor for Norbrook, said: "The farming industry will be aware that heavy worm burdens can significantly affect the health and productivity of cattle, potentially as much as £100 per head of cattle. We cannot simply ignore these parasites but we must tackle them responsibly. A comprehensive worming strategy is a vital component of any animal health plan, which should be composed of management strategies and any necessary anthelmintic treatments."
Norbrook highlights the product's efficacy against the gutworms Osterstagia osterstagi, Cooperia oncophora and lungworm, Dictyocaulus viviparous, with persistent action against these parasites for 35 days, 28 days and 42 days respectively.
Doramectin, the active ingredient in Taurador, is an anthelmintic belonging to the macrocyclic lactones (3-ML) group, along with ivermectins. Norbrook says both compounds share a wide spectrum of antiparasitic activity and produce a similar paralysis in nematodes and parasitic arthropods.
Dr Leigh Sullivan, Norbrook Large Animal Product Manager, said: "Taurador is the company’s thirteenth new product introduction in the last four years and it is a significant addition to our portfolio. Internal parasites such as gutworms and lungworm can have a serious impact on animal health and welfare, as well as financial implications for farmers, so it is great to be able to provide another product to help reduce the economic impact of these parasites."
Taurador is available in three different pack sizes (1L; 2.5L and 5L) and an appropriate dosing applicator is also available.
1,219 farmers took part in the survey: 44% beef and 56% dairy. For the first time, the survey was also tailored for the regions. 488 responses came from famers in England, 380 from Scotland, 164 from Wales and 237 from Northern Ireland.
Boehringer Ingelheim’s Matt Yarnall, who led the project, said: "Headline findings are that farmers have regrets about holding onto persistently infected animals (PIs) which, at the end of the day, no-one should be doing.
"The financial benefit of being free of BVD was estimated as being over £90 per cow per year and when asked what impact BVD has had on their herd, the majority of producers highlighted poor fertility and high levels of disease in the herd.”
Boehringer says the identification of persistently infected animals (PIs) through tag and testing, supported by improved herd biosecurity and vaccination, could cost as little as £10 per cow per year, representing a significant return on investment for a disease with severe financial impact.
Matt said: "Herd biosecurity is also hugely variable. The most commonly selected response was operating a closed herd but, as most practitioners will know, the definition of a true closed herd and the real-life execution of that can be two very different things."
Highlighting one of the other major challenges for producers in cattle-dense areas, results from Scotland that showed that 51% of farmers with neighbouring cattle are worried about their neighbours' BVD status.
Matt said: "Perhaps the most alarming finding was the lack of awareness of the intricacies of some BVD vaccination courses, especially around when they need to be restarted, in order to achieve the protection needed."
2017 survey data from last year showed that 71% of producers were failing to achieve adequate protection when using a BVD vaccine that requires a booster six months after the primary course.
Boehringer says the results showed this is mostly down to not properly understanding the exact nature of the timings for the two-dose primary course, dates of service and calving and then the booster date.
Matt added: "For any practitioner advising clients, the 2018 finding that a shocking 85% haven’t restarted a vaccination course when the majority should have done, should ideally serve as a clear call to action."
For more information about the findings of the National BVD Survey, email bvdzero.uk@boehringer-ingelheim.com.
Founded by Peter Rossdale in Newmarket in 1959, the practice now boasts a team of 50 veterinary surgeons and has established an international reputation for providing world class ambulatory, referral and laboratory services. The team is led by RCVS, European and American recognised veterinary specialists and operates from four sites in Newmarket, Exning, Hertfordshire and Lambourn.
Each year, Rossdales Equine Hospital in Exning hosts a large number of CPD courses which often include internationally recognised guest speakers who lecture alongside Rossdales’ specialist clinicians, with delegates attending from as far afield as Europe, Singapore, Dubai and Australia.
To celebrate the practice’s Diamond anniversary, Rossdales is hosting a special 'Diamond Series' of CPD events in 2019 in addition to its usual programme of educational courses.
Mike Shepherd, Managing Partner at Rossdales, said: "Since the practice was established by Peter Rossdale in 1959, it has always prided itself on clinical research and the willing distribution of this and other information to the veterinary profession. This ‘Diamond Anniversary’ series of CPD events is an initiative that we hope will benefit many of our veterinary colleagues. The first of these special events, the Diamond Series Veterinary Nursing Congress, was held at the beginning of June and was fully subscribed. We’re very pleased by the excellent feedback it generated."
Two further ‘Diamond Series’ events are scheduled, for veterinary surgeons and veterinary students respectively:
The Diamond Series Veterinary Surgeons Congress takes place on Friday,12th and Saturday, 13th July 2019 and is for all veterinary surgeons with an interest in equine or mixed practice. The programme covers a wide area of subjects, with talks provided by 12 veterinary surgeons from Rossdales Equine Hospital and Rossdales Laboratories. It also includes admission to The Moët & Chandon July Festival at Newmarket Racecourse on Saturday, 13th July.
The Diamond Series Undergraduate Congress will take place on Saturday, 10th and Sunday, 11th August 2019. This course is aimed at all current veterinary undergraduates who want to gain more knowledge and experience in the fields of equine veterinary medicine and surgery. There will be talks and presentations from 9 veterinary surgeons from Rossdales Equine Practice, Rossdales Equine Hospital and Rossdales Laboratories. There will also be a course dinner on the Saturday evening.
For more information, visit www.rossdales.com/news-events.
The survey, which this year had a record 1605 respondents, covers everything from basic earnings, bonuses and dividends to benefits such as accommodation, car allowance and pensions.
The survey found that the median salary package for all vets in 2021 was £48,325; £3000 more than in 2020.
For all nurses the median package was £24,227 in 2021 and for head nurses the figure rose to £31,013.
The median daily rate for a locum vet was £350 in 2021, a rise of over 16% since 2020.
The hourly locum rate increased by 36% to £41 per hour.
Similarly, locum nurse daily rates have risen by over 30% since 2020 to £144 and their hourly rate increased by 14% to £20.
New grad vets' salary packages actually dropped by £800 in 2021, to £32,700.
However, the 2021 new grad hourly rate increased to £15.66 from £15.04 in 2020.
SPVS says this could indicate that newly qualified vets are earning less because they are working, on average, three hours less a week.
This may suggest that they are prioritising their work life balance, with time off being more important than an overall salary.
SPVS also highlights a growing gender gap in salary.
81% of the respondents were female, and the median full time salary difference between men and women was 21%, compared to 15% in 2020.
SPVS hypothesises that this could be because there are more male vets in more senior positions, rather than because of gender per se.
The question, therefore, is why there are more male vets than females in senior positions.
The survey showed very similar numbers of males and females doing both clinical and non-clinical post graduate training. But more than twice as many men than women go on to take up positions of leadership or seniority, or in referrals.
More research is needed to understand why females are doing the extra training, but apparently not using it to further their career.
As in 2020 SPVS has also looked at satisfaction with remuneration, hours worked, conditions, support and prospects and is using this data to create a separate report which will be available soon.
For more information, visit: https://spvs.org.uk/spvs-survey/
The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons has launched an online quiz to test its members' knowledge of the Guide to Professional Conduct.
The Guide outlines what is acceptable professional and ethical behaviour for veterinary surgeons. It is developed and maintained by the Advisory Committee of the RCVS, which, in addition to veterinary members of RCVS Council, also includes lay members, a member of the Veterinary Nurses Council, and independent (ie non-Council) veterinary surgeons. The Guide is the benchmark against which a veterinary surgeon is judged, by both the Preliminary Investigation and Disciplinary Committees.
The quiz, which was road-tested at the London Vet Show on 6-7 November, is anonymous, but the College will be collating data on results to help focus future communications activities and see where extra guidance may be required.
On completion of the quiz, it is possible to review answers and view the relevant section of the online Guide.
The quiz is aimed at veterinary surgeons: if it's a success, a version for Registered Veterinary Nurses will follow.
To try the quiz, visit www.rcvs.org.uk/guidequiz It will initially be online for three months and reviewed thereafter.
According to the BVA, the problem is usually related to the cost of treatment, with 90% of vets saying that they or a member of their team have been challenged over their fees or charges and 98% saying that at some time they feel under pressure to waive fees or accept the promise of late payment.
Predictably, the problem is more commonly reported by those working in companion animal or mixed practice, with 89% reporting some form of intimidating experience. Younger vets and female vets were also significantly more likely to have experienced some form of intimidation.
The survey has prompted the BVA and the British Veterinary Nursing Association to issue advice concerning how to deal with intimidating clients.
BVNA President Sam Morgan said: "These statistics make for sad reading, but are certainly not surprising. Working within practice we have all either been subject to or witnessed that 'difficult' client, but we must remember any form of harassment is unacceptable. It’s important not to feel alone in these situations and to ensure there is awareness and support throughout the veterinary team."
BVA President John Fishwick, said: "Every situation is different and has to be dealt with on an individual basis, but it’s concerning to see the figures around challenging client behaviour and fees. Owning an animal is an important responsibility and will cost tens of thousands of pounds over its lifetime.
"It’s important for everyone in the vet team to take pride in the healthcare and treatment they deliver, and, equally, they must feel valued for their services. These figures emphasise the importance of managing expectations around fees by ensuring a two-way discussion about options and costs so clients can make a decision in collaboration with the veterinary team."
The BVA/BVNA advice for dealing with intimidating clients is as follows:
Photo: Dimitry A / Shutterstock
Rabbits are the third most commonly anaesthetised pet in the UK, however they have a seven times greater overall risk of perioperative death than dogs1.
Jurox says Alfaxan 10mg/ml solution for injection provides a wide safety margin, an excellent cardio-respiratory profile and is dosed to effect, making it an excellent choice for the anaesthetic induction of rabbits.
The company also says Alfaxan provides smooth and rapid induction and recovery, painless administration and good muscle relaxation with low impact on ventilation and blood pressure.
Richard Beckwith, country manager of Jurox (UK) Ltd said: "Rabbits are a growing pet population and increasingly play a more important part in UK vet practices, which is why Jurox has invested in research in this species.
"We are happy we can now support our vet and nurse clients by providing a new and reliable choice for induction of anaesthesia in pet rabbits that has been extensively trialed and researched.
"Alfaxan is a very versatile product as it is convenient for any type of situation, whether it is surgery on healthy animals or high risk patients such as pet rabbits. With Alfaxan we hope to make a contribution to the future of veterinary anaesthesia in the UK and are confident our clients will be able to deliver the best practice anaesthesia they believe in."
For more information, visit: Alfaxan.co.uk. Alternatively, contact your local Jurox technical sales representative, telephone the customer services team on 0800 500 3171 or e-mail: info@jurox.co.uk.
For the study, which was funded by the charity Songbird Survival, researchers collected the nests of 103 blue and great tits, and tested them for the presence of 20 insecticides.
Fipronil, imidacloprid and permethrin were the main culprits, detected in 100%, 89.1% and 89.1% of the samples respectively.
Overall, a higher number of either dead offspring or unhatched eggs was found in nests containing a higher number of insecticides, higher total concentration of insecticides or a higher concentration of fipronil, imidacloprid or permethrin, which the authors say suggests contact exposure of eggs to insecticides in nest lining may lead to mortality and lower reproductive success.
The BVA responded by calling for more research and encouraging vets to work with clients to ensure responsible use of parasiticides.
BVA President Elizabeth Mullineaux said: “Parasiticides play an important role in preventing and treating parasites in animals, which if left unaddressed can lead to bigger health and welfare issues in both animals and people.
"But it’s important they are used responsibly, and this work from the University of Sussex and SongBird Survival highlights the need for more research into how parasiticides affect the environment and wildlife and the associated risks.
“Rather than blanket use, we strongly encourage vets and owners to take a risk-based approach to prescribing or recommending these medicines, reflecting an animal’s exposure to parasites."
Reference
The procedure has already been performed in the US and Germany, where it is reported to have had a success rate of 70-80% in around 250 cases, many of which were show jumpers, eventers and dressage horses.
The team at Liphook, led by European Specialist Rachel Tucker (pictured), has now performed the procedure on six horses.
Rachel said: “Enlargement of the articular process joints of the lower neck is a relatively common finding in horses, but occasionally this can cause compression and irritation of the spinal nerves.
"The foraminotomy procedure means horses experiencing nerve pain can be made comfortable and have a good chance of returning to ridden work and a competition career.
“The surgery is minimally invasive but it is a very delicate procedure to perform because you are working very close to the spinal cord.
"Due to the location, the surgery is performed down a single portal under direct visualisation using a camera, guided by ultrasound and X-ray.
"What has been remarkable so far has been the rapid recovery of the horses, who have been home and out in a small paddock within a few days of surgery with some showing rapid signs of improved comfort and movement.
“We are very pleased with how the procedures at Liphook went.
"Our patients are continuing to recover well and we are looking forward to following their progress in the future.
https://liphookequinehospital.co.uk