VRCC the Essex-based veterinary referral specialists and centre for the treatment of cancer in dogs and cats has become the first in the UK to offer a canine melanoma vaccine.
The vaccine, previously only available in the U.S. where it has been granted a conditional license by the USDA, has been made available to VRCC's Head of Oncology Dr Susan North who fulfils the US Academic Credentials required.
According to VRCC, most oral tumours are not noticed early by owners, so many go undiagnosed and untreated until they are advanced and the dog has a poor chance of recovery.
Canine melanoma is an aggressive neoplasm treated with surgery and/or radiation therapy, which readily metastasises to the lymph nodes, liver, lungs and kidneys but is chemo-resistant. There is little evidence that chemotherapy improves survival time.
The canine melanoma vaccine develops effective immunotherapy in dogs that recognises and targets specific antigens on melanoma cells and may account for long-term tumour control and survival.
The vaccine is indicated for dogs with stage II or stage III oral melanoma for which local disease control has been achieved: negative local lymph nodes or positive lymph nodes that were surgically removed or irradiated.
The conditional license was granted based on the reasonable expectation that when used along with surgery and/or radiation therapy to treat the initial tumour the vaccine may help extend survival time and improve quality of life in dogs with canine oral melanoma.
US research concluded that canine patients with advanced disease have a median survival time of less than 5 months with standard therapies. In initial trials, dogs receiving the vaccination sequence had a median survival time of 389 days.
A canine transdermal device is especially matched to the vaccine for needle-free delivery and optimal distribution. Veterinary surgeons with a patient with oral melanoma should contact Dr Susan North at VRCC, www.vrcc.co.uk to discuss the case at an early stage, as initial treatment is important to ensure suitability for the vaccine.
A European study undertaken in horses to evaluate the efficacy of the key anthelmintic molecules fenbendazole, pyrantel, ivermectin and moxidectin in treating equine cyathostomins, has confirmed that resistance is developing against all the molecules with the exception of moxidectin.
Resistance to fenbendazole was highlighted as a particular issue with 80% of the yards tested in the UK and Germany showing resistance. Resistance to pyrantel also proved to be increasingly prevalent while cases of ivermectin resistance were emerging.
The Fort Dodge-sponsored study, the largest of its kind so far undertaken, took place during 2008 and was led by scientific teams from veterinary faculties in Italy and Germany. It was based on Faecal Egg Count Reduction Tests (FECRTs) of 1,704 horses at 102 yards in Italy, Germany and the UK. The calculation of FECR data was performed employing bootstrap analysis of group arithmetic means.
The study concluded that:
According to Dr Donato Traversa from the University of Teramo, Italy, who headed up the field work, the results confirm that single and even multiple drug resistance in equine cyathostomins is an increasing challenge in all three countries with resistance to fenbendazole and pyrantel a particular concern.
He said: "Our research highlights the necessity for vets, owners and managers to use those anthelmintic molecules that remain most effective in a manner which preserves their efficacy for as long as possible."
Professor Georg von Samson Himmelstjerna from Hannover University of Veterinary Medicine, which participated in the research, added: "Given the strong impact that resistant cyathostomins are likely to have on horse welfare, future parasite control plans should be based on integrated measures, involving both the correct use of anthelmintics, such as administering the correct dosing according to the animals weight, and only using products in the species for which it is licensed, as well as other approaches such as adequate pasture hygiene, low stocking rates and mixed grazing with other animals.
"We call on all concerned with equine health and welfare to take an active role in planning and monitoring effective worm control programs."
The European Parliament has voted 618 votes to 17 for an extension to the transitional arrangements contained within the regulation on the non-commercial movement of pet animals which afford the UK additional protection against rabies, ticks and tapeworms.
The British Veterinary Association (BVA) and British Small Animal Veterinary Association (BSAVA) have been lobbying MEPs to support the extension and have strongly welcomed this decision.
The transitional arrangements allow the UK to impose stricter measures on the entry of pet animals and are designed to protect the UK from rabies, ticks and tapeworms (Echinococcus multilocularis).
The vote in the European Parliament today supports an extension of these arrangements until the end of 2011 and puts in place a system so that permanent measures can be imposed in the future for entry to specific Member States based on scientific evidence. The decision will have to be ratified by the European Agriculture Council before coming into force.
Parasitologist Maggie Fisher from ESCCAP said: "This provides the UK with invaluable time to mount a solid scientific case for retaining the requirement for tick and tapeworm treatment indefinitely."
Professor Bill Reilly, President of the BVA, said: "The BVA and BSAVA have worked closely with Defra to secure this extension to the arrangements and we will now be pushing for investment in additional scientific research that will give us a clearer picture of the threat of the parasite Echinococcus multilocularis and other exotic and emerging diseases."
Dr Richard Dixon, President of BSAVA, added: "This decision in Europe is strongly welcomed and we are pleased that veterinary associations across Europe supported our position. The next stage is to gather further evidence to ensure the UK is protected in the future.
"In the meantime, the key message for pet owners is that they must talk to their vets as early as possible to find out how to protect them from disease and parasites when travelling abroad."
Genitrix has taken on the exclusive UK distribution of the Oxbow Professional range of premium recovery diets for herbivores and carnivores.
The Oxbow range was developed in the USA, covers a wide range of exotic species, and is offered in multiple pack sizes to ensure ease of use and cost effectiveness. Key products within the range include Critical Care, Critical Care Fine Grind and new Carnivore Care.
Carnivore Care is a recovery diet for carnivores including cats, ferrets, raptors and snakes, which are unwilling or unable to eat their normal diet. Developed specifically for carnivorous mammals, reptiles and birds, it contains easily digestible proteins, as well as high taurine and L-carnitine in a powdered formula which is easy to mix. It can be self fed, fed by syringe or even by tube to cats, ferrets, raptors, and other carnivorous small mammals and reptiles. It is used for conditions including malnutrition, severe weight loss, appetite stimulation, gastroenteritis, pre and post surgical care and as a medication carrier.
Critical Care is a recovery diet for herbivores, including rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, tortoises and other herbivorous mammals and reptiles. Formulated to contain all essential nutrients, as well as timothy hay to ensure proper gut physiology and digestion, it can be self fed or fed by syringe and is used in cases including gastrointestinal stasis, severe weight loss, dental disease/post extraction, for gastric hair balls and pre and post surgery
Critical Care Fine Grind is a recovery food which is particularly suitable in cases where tube feeding is required. Formulated to contain timothy hay and essential nutrients, it is offered in a fine particle size to ensure easy flow through nasogastric tubes and syringes. It can be used to feed herbivorous mammals and reptiles unwilling or unable to eat due to illness, surgery or poor nutritional status.
John Chitty BVetMed, CertZooMed, CBiol, MIBiol, MRCVS of the JC Exotic Pet Consultancy said: "In my opinion, the Oxbow Professional Line is the best recovery diet range on the market as it gives vets a variety of high quality options for multiple species. It can make really make the difference in a successful recovery."
Howard Wilder, Genitrix' Managing Director, said: "We're focused on delivering innovative products for companion animals and exotic pets which advance veterinary care and provide revenue opportunities for veterinary practices.
"The Oxbow range covers a uniquely wide range of species giving vets a flexible 'one range fits all' recovery care diet for convalescing pets, which has been well researched and formulated. We're delighted to launch the Oxbow Professional range in the UK and believe many veterinary practices will find it a beneficial addition to their armoury."
Burgess Excel and the PDSA are urging veterinary surgeons and nurses to get their clients to sign up to the free PDSA Rabbit Wellbeing Challenge by the closing date of Friday 22 November.
According to the organisers, the PDSA Rabbit Wellbeing Challenge is designed to help all rabbit owners understand and meet their pets' five welfare needs - the five things that all pet rabbits' need to be healthy and happy. Since the campaign was launched in June, more than 1,000 rabbit owners have signed up to take the challenge, and veterinary practices are now being urged to ensure their clients take advantage of this free resource by visiting www.rabbitneeds.org.uk to register.
The Challenge website allows owners to take a monthly quiz to find out how well they are currently meeting their rabbits' needs, with advice on how to further improve their health and wellbeing. At the end of the challenge, owners will be presented with a Rabbit Wellbeing Challenge certificate and receive monthly vouchers together with money-off coupons for the Excel Feeding Plan. They will also be entered into a prize draw to win a 16gb iPad.
The Challenge is being featured on stickers on every pack of Burgess Excel Rabbit Nuggets. One million packs will have been sold by the final date for sign ups on the 22 November.
Burgess Pet Care Veterinary Surgeon, Suzanne Moyes, said: "With help from the veterinary community we really can make a difference by raising awareness about important rabbit welfare issues and in turn change rabbit owner behaviour. Working together, we are can improve the health and wellbeing of the UK's third most popular pet by educating pet owners, especially in relation to diet and regular veterinary check-ups."
Sean Wensley, Senior Veterinary Surgeon at PDSA, added: "Sadly, the welfare needs of pet rabbits are often not met. Common problems include a poor diet, living alone in a small hutch with no exercise run, and a lack of preventive healthcare. The PDSA Rabbit Wellbeing Challenge is a great tool for owners to assess how well they are currently meeting their rabbit's five welfare needs and to get advice on making practical, positive improvements. Most owners want their pets to be healthy and happy, and we hope this Challenge will help tackle some of the preventable health and welfare problems commonly seen in pet rabbits."
For further information on The PDSA Rabbit Wellbeing Challenge visit www.rabbitneeds.org.uk or for further details on the Burgess Excel Feeding Plan visit www.excelfedingplan.co.uk
Professor Susan Dawson (pictured right), Chair of the Mind Matters Taskforce, will introduce the event and will be followed by the symposium’s plenary speaker, Rory O’Connor, Professor of Health Psychology at the University of Glasgow and President of the International Association for Suicide Prevention.
Rory's talk: ‘When It is Darkest: Understanding Suicide Risk’ will draw upon his research and work on the psychological processes which precipitate suicidal behaviour and self-harm, an area of expertise that has seen him advise the Scottish Government, as well as other national and international organisations, on suicide prevention strategies.
The next presentation will be from Dr Victoria Crossley from the Royal Veterinary College and Navaratnam Partheeban, co-founder of the British Veterinary Ethnicity & Diversity Society (BVEDS), on their research into the mental health impact of racism and discrimination on Black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) veterinary surgeons.
They'll be followed by Professor Neil Greenberg and Dr Victoria Williamson from King’s College London, who will talk about their research into the impact of ‘moral injury’ on the mental health and wellbeing of vets.
The day will then split into different research streams with presentations on a variety of topics including: the impact of cyberbullying and harassment; the wellbeing of veterinary interns and residents; stigma and stress in veterinary nursing; mental health awareness training in the undergraduate veterinary curriculum; and the relationship between ‘patient safety culture’ and staff burnout.
Lisa Quigley, Mind Matters Manager, said: “As with previous years the Mind Matters Mental Health Research Symposium promises to be a very informative and important day in terms of international researchers coming together to share their research, their conclusions, areas for further work and study, and best practice.
"Some of the topics we will be discussing, such as suicide, will be difficult, but research into issues affecting the international veterinary community is a vital first step to putting in place strategies and support mechanisms to help those in need. This is why research will be one of the key strategic priorities for the Mind Matters Initiative and our forthcoming actions in this area will be published later this year in our Mind Matters Initiative Strategic Plan.
“I would like to thank Dr Rosie Allister, a veterinary mental health researcher from the University of Edinburgh and manager of Vetlife Helpline, for putting together an excellent programme.
"As with previous years we are also offering free attendance of the symposium to those who have lived experience of mental ill-health, those who are currently not working, and veterinary and veterinary nursing students. If you have any queries about the event, please don’t hesitate to contact me on l.quigley@rcvs.org.uk to discuss further.”
Registration for those not entitled to a free ticket is £10.
To register for the event visit: www.vetmindmatters.org/events.
A 2001 graduate of University College Dublin School of Veterinary Medicine with an RCVS Certificate in Small Animal Surgery, Rob has worked for many years in general and referral practice and as clinical director of a large hospital in York.
He is also a qualified HR professional and holds an MBA from York Business School.
Since 2016, Rob has worked with VetPartners in management roles, with a focus on graduate programmes management, colleague engagement and career development.
In a career spanning almost 25 years, Dr Williams has also been actively involved with veterinary and academic organisations in various voluntary roles, including as a member of BVA’s Member Benefits Committee for five years; board member for the Society of Practicing Veterinary Surgeons; member of the RCVS VetGDP sub-committee; and member of the University of York Animal Welfare and Ethical Review Body.
He is currently a member of the advisory board at York Business School.
Vets, consultants and other advisors should encourage dairy farmers to make use of available information to help improve their herd's performance and profitability through breeding. This is the message from DairyCo breeding+ director, Marco Winters, who says farmers should use genetics to improve not only milk production, but also health, welfare, management and type traits.
Breeding briefs, a new booklet from DairyCo, identifies some genetic improvement tools that allow farmers to make better breeding decisions and concentrates on how to use them in practice. And for those who feel confronted by an overload of information, the booklet helps identify the figures to seek out and prioritise.
Breeding decisions are cumulative: their effects build up over the generations so a problem can be introduced or cured over just a few years. A series of poor breeding decisions can mean the difference between profit and loss; even between a business's survival and failure. Yet the time, cost and effort needed for a good breeding decision to be made is much the same as those needed for a bad one.
Mr Winters says: "High quality cattle are at the heart of profitable dairy farming and this requires good quality genetics. Without these, however good farmers' management, there is a ceiling to their herd's performance and profitability. Vets, consultants and other dairy advisers have an important role to play in helping farmers access the information they need to make informed decisions."
DairyCo Breeding briefs is available to download from http://www.dairyco.org.uk/. To request a pdf version by email call 01285 646510 or email: publications@dairyco.org.uk.
Cats Protection and Dogs Trust have launched an awards scheme inviting veterinary students to submit a series of three feline or canine case studies.
The Clinical Cases Study Awards 2010 encourage students to highlight the differential diagnoses and treatment regimes in a 1,500 word report.
The selected cases should be related, and animals can be from the UK or overseas. Reports should include a brief introduction, common presenting signs, possible causes of the animal's condition or illness and a diagnosis, prognosis and treatment plan for each animal, with photographs included as appropriate.
There will be separate prizes for the best feline report and the best canine report. Each winner will receive £500 and the chance to have their report summary published in a Cats Protection or Dogs Trust magazine, whilst runners-up in each category will receive £250.
Guidance notes to help students draft their report are available from either charity. Reports should be sent with a covering letter and a CV to veterinary@cats.org.uk to arrive no later than 1 March 2010.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a judging day on 6 April at Dogs Trust's Rehoming Centre in Kenilworth. Selected finalists will have the opportunity to attend the BSAVA Congress in Birmingham, where the winners will be announced at an awards ceremony on 9 April.
Maggie Roberts, Cats Protection's Director of Veterinary Services said: "As a charity that helps over 193,000 unwanted cats each year, Cats Protection works closely with the veterinary profession and recognises how important today's veterinary students are to the future of feline welfare. Cats are intriguing creatures and their diseases can be complex. It will be interesting to see the range of cases the students present."
Chris Laurence, Veterinary Director at Dogs Trust added: "This is the first time we have invited veterinary students to submit case studies for the awards and I hope that universities will support the scheme by encouraging their students to enter. We see the awards as an introduction point for students to engage with two of the leading welfare charities - something that will be a beneficial experience and potentially assist them with their future careers."
Further information can be obtained from either Gemma Lovegrove at Cats Protection on 01825 741991 or email veterinary@cats.org.uk or from Chris Laurence at Dogs Trust on 02078 337 662 or email chris.laurence@dogstrust.org.uk
The University of Glasgow Small Animal Hospital has completed a £15 million pound development, including the installation of state-of-the-art diagnostic imaging equipment from Siemens Healthcare.
A Magnetom Essenza MRI, a Somatom Spirit CT and Multix Top analogue X-ray are now in place to assist the examination of animals and to diagnose conditions quickly and accurately. A further order for an Oncor Impression linear accelerator has been placed to enable the hospital to provide cost effective and flexible radiotherapy for its animal patients.
The Essenza 1.5T MRI scanner replaces a visiting mobile MRI to provide onsite imaging. According to Siemens, the Essenza is able to give a high level of diagnostic information in just one examination. With rapid and high quality imaging, animal patients spend less time under anaesthetic and the time taken to begin treatment can be reduced.
The installation of the Somatom Spirit CT scanner allows the hospital to look beyond bone structure and into soft tissue and organ imaging. Siemens says the speed and versatility of the Spirit are ideal for veterinary CT. Alongside the Spirit, the hospital has also installed a Multix Top analogue X-ray system providing the hospital with a simple and efficient imaging tool.
Calum Paterson, Hospital Manager at Glasgow Small Animal Hospital said: "By advancing our scanning facilities we are able to increase the services we offer and provide rapid, high-resolution images for our patients. The Siemens scanners are highly suitable in terms of their size and design to be able to accommodate all the small animal patients we see."
James Weir, Regional Sales Manager at Siemens Healthcare said: "Siemens technology is designed to speed up diagnosis by providing faster examination times and high quality imaging. These key functions provide excellent quality of care to any patient, be it human or animal. The installations are transforming veterinary care by providing enhanced diagnosis and improving treatment pathways for domestic pets."
Every tube of Logic Oral Hygiene Gel now contains a free finger brush to encourage owners to brush their pet's teeth every day.
Ceva Animal Health product manager, Fraser Broadfoot MRCVS, said: "Daily brushing is known to be the single most effective means of removing plaque. The finger brush in each pack of Logic is ideal for administration to cats and small dogs. For medium to large dogs we also have a Logic Dental Care Kit, which includes a tube of Logic Oral Hygiene Gel and a Petosan toothbrush."
Ceva says Logic is the UK's leading veterinary dental brand thanks to high palatability and unique multi-enzyme formula, which works by enhancing the mouth's natural defence systems. In addition, a surfactant ensures that the active ingredient remains in contact with the teeth and gums.
The Kennel Club Genetics Centre at the AHT has identified a genetic mutation which causes a severe progressive disease in Parson Russell Terriers (PRTs).
Late onset ataxia (LOA) affects coordination and balance, making everyday movement and tasks increasingly difficult. The new DNA test can accurately predict the risk of developing the disease in 97-100 per cent of PRTs and will effectively reduce the number of LOA cases in the breed.
Dogs usually develop the disease between six months and one year of age but because there is no cure, sufferers are usually euthanised around two years after onset as their quality of life diminishes.
After testing DNA of over 200 PRTs in total, the AHT's scientists were able to isolate the genetic mutation which causes the disease and establish that LOA is an inherited recessive trait; therefore dogs must have two defective copies of the genetic mutation, one from each parent, to be affected.
The test results will inform dog owners if their dog is clear from, a carrier of, or affected by LOA.
Cathryn Mellersh, Head of Canine Genetics, at the AHT said: "This is great news for PRT breeders as we believe LOA is an emerging condition in the breed and through this test we should be able to cut the disorder 'off at the pass', before the mutation becomes any more widespread.
"Interestingly, our research also suggests that there may be other causes of ataxia in the breed. It is important for breeders to understand that a clear result using the LOA DNA test will not exclude the formal possibility that dogs could still develop a genetically different form of ataxia."
Caroline Kisko, Kennel Club Secretary, said: "LOA is a relatively new but devastating condition and we are delighted that we've been able to work with the Animal Health Trust to develop a DNA test that will give breeders the opportunity to significantly reduce this disease. We will keep working together to develop tools and information for breeders, so that they are able to select dogs that will have healthy puppies."
The DNA test for LOA is available from the AHT at the price of £48. Full details are available at www.ahtdnatesting.co.uk.
The taskforce was established following the EU referendum result on 24 June, with the central purpose of putting the profession in charge of its future by maximising the opportunities and minimising the risks of Brexit.
Almost half of veterinary surgeons registering in the UK qualified from veterinary schools elsewhere in the EU. While the Government issued a statement in mid-July clarifying that as yet there has been no change to the rights and status of EU nationals in the UK or UK nationals in the EU, it is not clear whether this situation will continue once the UK has left the EU.
The Brexit Presidential Taskforce will consider, and proactively engage with, the many possible changes that could shape the future of the UK veterinary profession due to Brexit.
The members of the Taskforce are: the President of the College, Chris Tufnell; the CEO, Nick Stace; the Treasurer, Amanda Boag; Operations Director, Corrie McCann; Junior Vice-President, Stephen May; Acting Registrar, Eleanor Ferguson; Chair of Education, Susan Dawson; Head of Education, Chris Warman; Council member Stuart Reid; Chair of VN Council, Liz Cox; and Director of Strategic Communications, Lizzie Lockett.
The terms of reference include: considering how EU regulations currently impact the regulation of veterinary professionals in the UK, and making recommendations as to which should be maintained; looking at the issue of mutual recognition of veterinary graduates in Europe; considering workforce requirements and the implications of a new system of immigration; understanding the implications for the current RCVS agenda; considering whether a proactive RCVS agenda can influence any new UK legislation; reconsidering the College’s existing international strategy; and studying the financial impact on the College.
It was also agreed that the College should maintain communications with the British Veterinary Association and coordinate approaches where appropriate.
Dr Chris Tufnell, President of the RCVS, said: "Brexit has profound implications for our professions. The Presidential Taskforce is exploring all implications and will develop proposals that will seek to mitigate the risks and maximise the benefits that can flow to the veterinary professions and to animal welfare.
"We are working closely with representative bodies and others so that the veterinary professions have a coordinated and well executed plan in place. We are in discussions with all relevant Government departments, working collaboratively and constructively, ensuring that our voice is heard and our influence is felt."
The next meeting will be held on 15 September, with the third one scheduled for 9 November.
Designed for the whole practice team, the Congress theme will be Smarter Working – better outcomes: focussing on how individual and veterinary practice life can be transformed through consistent incremental gains.
Congress will be opened by Cath Bishop (pictured), Olympic rower turned business coach, with an insight into how working smarter revolutionised her rowing career, and the importance of continued learning to help achieve the marginal gains required to help thrive in practice.
The Smarter Working non-clinical lecture and workshop programme will incorporate the following streams:
Saturday workshops are also included in the full congress ticket price.
The social programme includes an afternoon Happy Hour in the exhibition hall, a networking event and the President’s Party with a reception, three course meal and party band.
There will also be a commercial exhibition.
www.spvs-congress.co.uk
The RCVS is seeking applicants for an Appointment Group which will be responsible for deciding the membership for the governing body of the new RCVS Fellowship.
In June, RCVS Council approved proposals to develop a new style Fellowship to move it away from being an examination-based award to a formal learned society with routes to entry for those veterinary surgeons who can demonstrate meritorious contributions to clinical practice, to the profession or to learning. The Fellowship by thesis route has been discontinued as of 1 August 2015, although all applications received by this route prior to that date are being processed.
The new Fellowship will be governed and administered by a Fellowship Board with an additional Credentials Panel of up to 30 members to review new applications.
The College says it is now in the process of putting together an Appointment Group which will decide the membership of the Fellowship Board and the Credentials Panel. It is currently seeking to appoint a veterinary surgeon in the earlier stage of their career to the Group. The full details of the role, including details of the person specification, how to apply and information on expenses and remuneration can be found at www.rcvs.org.uk/workforus
The Group will be chaired by former RCVS President Lord Trees with other members being RCVS President Dr Bradley Viner and BVA President Sean Wensley as well as a lay observer. The first meeting of the Appointment Group is likely to take place before the end of the year and, once the Fellowship Board and Credentials Panel are established, the Group will be dissolved.
For an informal chat about the role before applying, contact Dr Simon Wallace, RCVS Education and Scientific Officer, on s.wallace@rcvs.org.uk or 020 7202 0702.
An annual dog licence fee of as little as £21.501 could help reduce the number of strays and help tackle irresponsible dog breeding, according to a new RSPCA report released today.
Owners would face a cost of less than 42p a week per dog, in order to provide huge improvements to dog welfare and dog control services.
The report - 'Improving dog ownership - The economic case for dog licensing' - suggests a licensing scheme could deliver resources to improve dog welfare worth in excess of £107.4 million1. With an estimated 10 million dogs in Britain2, this works out at £21.50 per dog with a compliance rate of 50 per cent1. A compliance rate of 75 per cent would work out even less at £14.30 per dog1.
The new report was written by the RSPCA's director of communications David Bowles and is based on research by Reading University, which was commissioned by the Society.
It makes three recommendations in its conclusion:
David said: "Now is the right time to invest in the future health and welfare of Britain's dogs. A dog licence would raise money which could be targeted into improving enforcement of laws at a local level, improve the welfare of dogs and reverse the use of certain breeds of dogs as a status symbol or weapon.
"The dog licence would achieve three important goals. It would raise money for dog welfare, increase the numbers of responsible dog owners by getting people to think before they get a dog and start to reverse the surplus of dogs on the market by providing incentives such as reduced fees for neutering dogs."
He added that the costs are given as an indication of what the licence fee could cover, and a dog licensing scheme could in reality be set at between £20-30 per dog per year - between only three and four per cent of the annual costs of owning a typical breed of dog.
Twenty-three countries in Europe currently have a dog licence or registration scheme3. In some countries, such as Germany, Slovenia and the Netherlands, the RSPCA says there have been improved dog control provisions and low numbers of strays with compliance rates of more than 50 per cent.
David said: "The RSPCA believes that Britain has slipped behind other countries which have started to tackle and solve the problems of dog over supply and only the introduction of a dog licence could ensure we catch up.
"In countries which have a dog licence it is seen not as a tax, but as an important part of owning a dog. In Britain we know that a dog licence is welcomed by two out of every three dog owners, more than 70 per cent of who are happy to pay more than £30 for the pleasure and responsibility of owning a dog."
References1. Figures taken from Table 2, p16, Improving dog ownership - The economic case for dog licensing (see below).2. Murray, J.K., Browne, W.J., Roberts, M.A., Whitmarsh A. And Gruffydd-Jones T.J. (2010) Number and ownership profiles of cats and dogs in the UK. The Veterinary Records 166: 163-168.3. Tasker, L. (2007) Stray Animal Control Practices (Europe). WSPA and RSPCA.
The interactive module, which lasts around 30 minutes, is presented by leading cardiologist Clarke Atkins, professor of medicine and cardiology at North Carolina State University.
A CPD certificate can be downloaded after completing a quiz at the end of the module.
To access the Cardio Academy visit http://www.cardioacademy.cevalearn.com/.
Diverse Undertakings Ltd. has announced that it is extending its services to include support for veterinary practices in securing their RCVS Practice Standards Scheme (PSS) accreditation.
The company was originally formed to provide business advisory services to small and medium sized enterprises across a range of industry sectors. Its services range from general H.R. advice, health & safety guidance and facilities management to candidate sourcing and call-centre services.
However, with previous experience supporting a substantial veterinary practice in Kent for both employment challenges and PSS accreditation, Company Director Neal Palk decided to extend the company's capability to support other veterinary practices in securing their PSS accreditation.
He says that because the needs of each practice vary, Diverse can adapt its service to reflect both the individual circumstances relating to accreditation as well as the capability/capacity with the practice to undertake necessary tasks itself. By using a network of associates, he says Diverse can call upon other specialities (for example - competitively priced office/building equipment) to smooth the progress to accreditation.
Diverse says it offers a range of transparent pricing options to suit the client which, without the overheads of large consultancies, often result in PSS accreditation being achieved for less cost than a typical administrative temp for a month. Monthly retention fee alternatives for other services are available, beginning at £95+ VAT.
Neal said: "Several organisations offer professional services to the veterinary practice sector, but few can claim to have 'been there, done that' and really understand the climate and culture the sector operates within. Diverse Undertakings Ltd. values its experience in the sector and aims to work with other practices to achieve both accreditation and wider business success."
For more details please contact Neal on 07771 843719, e-mail: info@diverseundertakings.com, or visit: http://www/diverseundertakings.com
Biogal has announced the launch of the PCRun Molecular Detection Kit, designed to give PCR results in clinic or in the lab within an hour.
The new kit doesn't require any other equipment, such as a thermocycler.
PCRun is a molecular assay based on the isothermal amplification of part of the HapI gene. The company says it is intended for the qualitative detection of pathogenic species of Leptospires only.
The PCRun has been tested at the OEI Leptospira Reference Laboratory in Ireland, on sample materials including urine and kidney biopsies collected from cows experimentally infected with L. hardjo as well as kidney cells.
According to the company, no false positive results were observed in all 63 samples tested and there was excellent correlation between Real Time PCR and PCRun reactions.
Results of the study and a list of serovars tested with PCRun are available from Biogal. See: http://www.biogal.co.il/products/pcrun
The College points to data gathered from its 2024 VN Vision workshops which showed that many nurses believe their skills and capabilities, and the scope of tasks that can be performed within the current legal framework, are not being fully used.
This new project aims to gather insights and empower nurses to play a more central role in the sector by promoting greater involvement in:
Session dates, times and locations are as follows:
Julie Dugmore RVN, RCVS Director of Veterinary Nursing, said: “Informed by conversations with professionals across the sector and a deep understanding of current practice, this new project recognises that achieving meaningful change requires a fundamental cultural shift.
"Clear guidance, structured support and open dialogue will be key in empowering veterinary teams to adapt to a new way of working.
“An additional crucial focus will be on enhancing public understanding of the Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN) role, alongside support for developing stronger interprofessional and public-facing communication.”
Jill Macdonald RVN, VN Futures Lead, added: “These interactive sessions will play an important role in this new branch of VN Vision work, helping to define long term goals, identify the practical steps needed to achieve them, and determine how success will be measured and shared with the wider public.
“We were honoured to have so many fantastic nurses come together last year to help shape the future of the profession, and we’re looking forward to many more engaging conversations with vet team members this time around.
"This is more than just a conversation though – it’s a national effort to strengthen the RVN role through collaboration, clarity and confidence.”
The ‘A vision or a necessity: strengthening the role of veterinary nurses in team-based veterinary healthcare’ workshops are open to all practice team members, including, but not limited to, veterinary nurses, veterinary surgeons, practice support staff, directors, managers, and practice owners.
Workshops will be informal, informative and made up of small groups.
Supper will also be provided.
https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/vet-nursing-vision-events-3253639
https://www.rcvs.org.uk/news-and-views/publications/vn-vision-the-future-of-team-based-veterinary-healthcare/
Dechra Veterinary Products has launched a campaign supporting veterinary professionals in the diagnosis and treatment of otitis externa at BSAVA World Congress.
The campaign includes a range of guidance, information and case studies from key opinion leaders.
The aim of the campaign is to encourage the identification of the organism causing infection through cytology, support the selection of the correct treatment and assist with educating clients on how to apply and use products correctly. The cytology guidance has been produced in association with veterinary dermatologists Peter Forsythe and Ariane Neuber, who is also a speaker at this year's Congress in Birmingham.
A new website www.dechra.com/timetochange is being launched to coincide with the campaign which provides online CPD focusing on skin and ear cytology.
Dechra Veterinary Products' Managing Director Bob Parmenter said: "We are delighted to launch It's Time to Change at the largest international veterinary event ever held in the UK. BSAVA World Congress has a reputation for promoting best practice, as does Dechra in its support of veterinary professionals.
"Amid a growing concern surrounding the issues of antimicrobial resistance, the new dermatology drive will aim to support vets through a holistic best practice approach to managing ear disease."
"Without the appropriate treatment combined with correct owner compliance, antimicrobial resistance could be a major issue for the companion animal veterinary profession. That's why we have launched this campaign and we're looking forward to speaking to delegates about why it's time to change."
Referral Dermatologist Sue Paterson MA, VetMB, DVD, DipECVD, MRCVS, RCVS and European Specialist in Veterinary Dermatology is available to speak with delegates at the Dechra Veterinary Products stand on Friday, April 13 and Saturday, April 14.
Dechra Veterinary Products has published a range of case studies to support its new campaign focused on the diagnosis and treatment of otitis externa.
The studies have been written by Referral Dermatologist Sue Paterson MA, VetMB, DVD, DipECVD, MRCVS, RCVS European Specialist in Veterinary Dermatology and Peter Forsythe BVM&S, DVD, MRCVS, RVCS Specialist in Veterinary Dermatology.
Developed as part of the Time to Change campaign, the real-life examples feature a series of problems and solutions associated with otitis, supported by clear images and photomicrographs.
Larry King, Senior Brand Manager, Dechra Veterinary Products, said: "We have created a range of in-depth case study materials for use by vets and vet nurses which will support identification and management of otitis externa, one of the more frequent conditions seen in general practice.
"As veterinary professionals are aware, otitis is common and can be challenging to diagnose and treat. These studies address individual cases and demonstrate how the Dechra dermatology range can be used effectively.
"Topics covered in the case studies include the types of otitis presented by each animal, how individual organisms were identified using cytology and how long treatment was continued."
The case studies, which feature Malassezia, staphylococcal and Proteus infections, also discuss the underlying causes and steps taken after treatment with Canaural and various ear cleaners.
The Time to Change campaign has been launched to support a best practice approach to otitis which includes the identification of the organisms causing infection through cytology, support the selection of the correct treatment and assist with educating clients on how to apply and use products correctly.
For further information visit www.dechra.com/timetochange. The website also highlights the benefits of Dechra Veterinary Products' range of topical treatments and ear flushes, including Canaural, CleanAural, CerumAurual, TrizAural and MalAceticAural.
The original deadline for nominations for the three honours (the Queen’s Medal, Golden Jubilee Award and Honorary Associateship) was Friday 16 September – this has now been moved to Friday 21 October 2016.
Chris Tufnell, President of the RCVS, said: "Do you know someone who goes above-and-beyond the call of duty? Whose achievements have had a tangible impact on their profession or the veterinary and animal health and welfare sector at large? Then we would strongly encourage you to nominate them for an RCVS Honour. Those who are successful will receive their award at our Annual General Meeting and Awards Day where their achievements will be described and recognised in front of their peers."
The Queen’s Medal was introduced in 2013 and is the highest honour that the College can bestow upon a veterinary surgeon in recognition of those who have achieved a highly distinguished career and outstanding achievements. Nominations can be made by any Member of the RCVS in respect of another veterinary surgeon.
The Golden Jubilee Award was introduced in 2011 to mark the 50th anniversary of the first RCVS training course for veterinary nurses and now recognises those nurses who are taking a leadership role within the profession. Nominations can be made by either veterinary nurses or veterinary surgeons in respect of a veterinary nurse.
Finally, nominations can also be made for Honorary Associateship which is eligible for those who, while not veterinary surgeons or nurses, have had a significant impact in the veterinary field. Previous winners have included scientists, farmers, farriers, educationalists and journalists.
Further information about making nominations for each of these awards, including nominations forms, can be found at www.rcvs.org.uk/honours. All awards will be bestowed at RCVS Day 2017 in July next year.
Those with questions about making a nomination can contact Peris Dean, Executive Secretary, on p.dean@rcvs.org.uk
The project was launched as a joint initiative between the RCVS and the BVNA in 2016. Its objectives included highlighting veterinary nursing as a career, encouraging more people into veterinary nursing, improving retention, expanding the scope of the VN role, and providing more opportunity for career progression.
The report begins by highlighting perhaps the biggest challenge facing the profession, that in 2019, 25% of veterinary nurses said they plan to leave the profession in the next five years, largely because of poor pay, because they don't feel sufficiently valued, lack of career opportunities and because of a poor work/life balance.
The main achievements of the project, which should certainly help with some of these issues, include:
Jill Macdonald, VN Futures Project Coordinator, said: "The report is a culmination of years of hard work, putting in place measures to champion the veterinary nursing profession and safeguard it for the future. Through the introduction of initiatives like the School Ambassador Development Programme and the introduction of the CertAVN, to name but a few, we have put in place steps to inspire the next generation of veterinary nurses and support the training and development of people currently working in the profession."
You can read the full VN Futures Interim Report at https://www.vnfutures.org.uk/resource-items/vn-futures-interim-report-2021
Forum Animal Health is launching a new programme designed for transition cows to help avoid milk fever relapses: the Milk Fever Pack.
According to the company, the new Milk Fever Pack provides a continuous and complete supply of readily available oral calcium to avoid relapses which also gives the cow extra support until her system is back in control. Unlike intravenous calcium, oral calcium will not suppress parathyroid hormone (PTH) release and therefore will not turn off the cow's natural mechanism to regulate blood calcium levels.
Each pack contains one sachet of Agger's® Fresh Cow which supplies essential calcium, energy and rehydrates the cow; and two tubes of Botonic® Calcium which create a mild metabolic acidosis to enable the cow to mobilise calcium efficiently.
Forum Animal Health says the new Milk Fever Pack has been developed in close collaboration with a leading veterinary nutritionist to allow veterinary surgeons to be involved at an earlier stage. The veterinary surgeon can then leave a follow-up protocol for the client to use, helping to avoid milk fever relapses. It gives veterinary surgeons a chance to introduce standard operating procedures into herd health plans bringing better control of milk fever on farms.
For more information, please contact Forum Animal Health on 01737 781416 or animal.health@forumgroup.co.uk.