Invicta Animal Health has announced the launch of Ocuvance, a nutritional supplement to support ocular health in dogs and cats.
The company says Ocuvance is formulated to provide an antioxidant complex supporting and maintaining the health of eyes. The tablets contain lutein, a xanthophyll pigment found within the eye. They also contain anthocyanosides derived from bilberry extract to support rhodopsin production. The formulation also contains vitamins C and E, zinc and selenium.
Ocuvance is presented in packs of 30 scored tablets; sufficient for a one month supply for the average sized dog.
Rob Watkins, Managing Director of Invicta, said: "We are delighted to make Ocuvance available to veterinary surgeons in the UK. A recent veterinary study1 has shown there can be significant ophthalmic benefits of antioxidant supplementation.
We carefully formulated Ocuvance to provide a range of high quality ingredients to maintain normal visual function whilst still being affordable for owners”.
Ocuvance is now available from all veterinary wholesalers.
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This, says Spillers, suggests that older horses, whether or not they have been diagnosed with insulin dysregulation, need an appropriate diet and management plan to help minimise the risks associated with insulin dysregulation such as laminitis.
The two studies1,2, which were conducted in collaboration with Michigan State University, aimed to find out more about the relationship between insulin dysregulation, dietary adaptation, and ageing to help guide more appropriate feeding regimens for senior horses.
Both studies investigated tissue insulin resistance and the insulin response in healthy adults compared to healthy senior horses adapted to diets with varying levels and sources of hydrolysable and structural carbohydrate (starch, sugar, and fibre).
Results from both studies showed insulin responses tend to increase with age in healthy horses, regardless of the diet they had been fed prior to evaluation. The insulin response, for example, was highest in the senior horses fed a starch rich meal even when they had been adapted to such a diet.
Clare Barfoot, RNutr, the research and development manager at Spillers said: "These studies confirm that even healthy older horses can have an increased insulin response compared to younger animals.
"This suggests that the energy sources used in the diet of senior horses and their effect on insulin dynamics need to be carefully considered.
"Practically, this means restricting the overall amount of starch and sugar in the diet especially for those horses that already have additional risk factors such as obesity, native breeding or PPID."
References
The RCVS Disciplinary Committee has refused an application for restoration to the Register by Mr Joseph Holmes, who was struck off in 2011 for serious professional misconduct associated with surgery he had carried out on a dog and two cats.
At a two-week Disciplinary Committee hearing that concluded on 14 January 2011, two separate complaints had been considered against Mr Holmes, formerly of Waltham Veterinary Clinic, Grimsby. These involved a total of 31 charges, of which 28 were found to amount to serious professional misconduct. Mr Holmes was found to have advised on and undertaken surgical procedures without sufficient clinical grounds or consideration of alternative treatment options; failed to obtain the informed consent of his clients; undertaken procedures outside his area of competence; failed to refer or discuss the option of referral to a specialist; and, failed to provide his patients with adequate pain relief.
The then-Committee directed Mr Holmes' name be removed from the Register, whereupon he appealed to the Privy Council, who dismissed his appeal on 22 December 2011, concluding that removal from the Register "was the only disposal which could properly reflect the primary need to serve both the interests of animal welfare and the reputation of the veterinary profession".
At the hearing last week the Committee considered several factors in relation to Mr Holmes' application for restoration. Although Mr Holmes gave assurances that he accepted the findings of the original hearing, this contrasted completely to the robust way in which he had challenged all of these at that hearing and the majority in his appeal. Mr Holmes had been off the Register for only 12 months - just over the minimum period before an application for restoral was permitted. The Committee took the view that the application was premature and was not satisfied that Mr Holmes truly appreciated the seriousness of the findings made against him.
In response to questions from the Committee, Mr Holmes showed deficiencies in his knowledge, such as not knowing all of the constituents of the human drug, Anadin Extra, in spite of having produced a record of continuing professional development (CPD) on analgesia and having prescribed it to a dog in the original complaint. He did not provide records of CPD for 2010, 2011 and 2012, and although recognising that working in isolation from the majority of his fellow practitioners had contributed to his failures, he had made very limited efforts to observe first-opinion veterinary practice.
The Committee accepted at face value Mr Holmes' statement that he had not worked as a veterinary surgeon whilst de-registered, and accepted that removal from the Register had had a profound effect on Mr Holmes and his family, including the sale of his practice. It noted that Mr Holmes produced only the testimonials previously submitted to the Privy Council, which were of limited scope.
Professor Peter Lees, chairing and speaking on behalf of the Committee said: "Having regard to all the factors set out above, the Committee regrets that it is not satisfied that the applicant is fit to be restored to the Register. Accordingly, the application is refused."
The Federation of European Companion Animal Veterinary Associations (FECAVA) has announced the online publication of the Winter edition of its journal, EJCAP, which leads on responsible use of antibiotics and is now available free to all members of the veterinary profession.
The latest edition also features articles about indoor ferrets and hyperadrenocorticism, elderly cats and osteoarthritis, and correcting a malocclusion.
As a result of a unanimous decision by the FECAVA Council in October, the journal is now freely available to all veterinary practitioners, students and nurses throughout Europe.
To access the journal, visit: http://ejcap.fecava.org
A bogus vet who pleaded guilty to a number animal cruelty and fraud offences is being sought by Humberside Police after he failed to appear at court for sentencing.
Jayson Paul Wells (pictured right), 30, of Driffield in the East Riding of Yorkshire, is wanted by detectives in Grimsby after he failed to appear at Grimsby Crown Court.
The RCVS assisted Humberside Police with its original investigation and is publicising its appeal to help locate Mr Wells. Police believe that he may be trading as a herdsman in Nottingham or Cornwall and are keen to establish whether he is currently in either location.
Mr Wells was arrested on 2 October 2013 and charged with the following offences:
Mr Wells pleaded guilty to all offences.
Anyone who is aware of his whereabouts is asked to call Humberside Police on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Danilon is used to relieve the pain caused by musculoskeletal conditions, such as osteoarthritis (OA), bursitis, laminitis, and soft tissue inflammation.
Some oral NSAIDs have been shown to increase the risk of gastric irritation¹ - a particular concern when treating of chronic conditions.
However, Animalcare points to a study² in which horses given Danilon Gold showed a reduced number of ulcers and those that did appear were less severe.
The area of gastric mucosa affected was also five times less.
Animalcare says accurate administration is critical for clinical success.
To support this, Danilon Gold is presented in a coloured granule formulation and is now available in both 3g and 10g sachets.
Forte developed the new solution alongside Professor Gayle Hallowell, Professor of Veterinary Internal Medicine and Critical Care at the School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham.
The company says Hydrafast delivers ideal levels of sodium and glucose. It also contains glycine, an amino acid, acetate, propionate and citrate.
Professor Hallowell said: “This new ORS formula for calves is both practical and research-based, and should address what we know calves need when they have diarrhoea. It provides nutrition as well as an optimal electrolyte balance.”
Hydrafast comes in sachets of 133g. Each box of Hydrafast contains 24 sachets.
Hydrafast is available now from all major veterinary wholesalers, or direct from Forte Healthcare Ltd.
For more information contact your Forte Territory Manager, email enquiries@fortehealthcare.com or visit: www.fortehealthcare.com/product/hydrafast/
The intranasal vaccine can be administered to calves from one week old. It reduces the clinical signs of respiratory disease and viral shedding from infection with Bovine Respiratory Syncytial Virus (BRSV) and Parainfluenza-3 Virus (Pi3V).
MSD says that no other UK-licensed BRD vaccine can be administered earlier in life, and claims the vaccine delivers the fastest on-farm protection, with an onset of immunity after administration of 5 days for BRSV and 7 days for Pi3V. Duration of immunity is 12 weeks for both viruses.
MSD Animal Health livestock veterinary adviser Dr Kat Baxter-Smith said: "Having this early life calf pneumonia vaccine available in single dose vials will give farmers more practical leeway to be able to vaccinate vulnerable young calves from as young as a week of age, rather than delaying administration until a batch of calves are available. We know that early-age protection of young calves through intranasal vaccination can help prevent pneumonia and positively impact a beef or dairy calf’s productive future".
The new single dose vials are supplied in packs of five, complementing the five dose vials already available.
For further information, contact your MSD account manager.
Invicta Animal Health has announced its appointment as exclusive veterinary distributor in the UK for Chloraprep, a licensed human product for cutaneous antisepsis, prior to invasive procedures.
Invicta says Chloraprep is a single use, easy to apply, sterile system, available in a variety of sizes and in clear and tinted versions to enhance the visibility of the area requiring antisepsis, for instance, prior to surgery.
The sterile solution is maintained in a glass ampoule inside a protective outer case and, to prevent contamination, the patented design ensures users don't come into contact with either the contents or the patient's skin.
Rob Watkins, Managing Director of Invicta, said: "Most surgical site infections (SSI's) are the result of contamination from a patient's own skin flora1, a fact which highlights the importance of thorough and effective preparation of the skin as a proactive way to minimise the incidence of SSI's in patients."
According to the company, research has shown that Chloraprep, which contains 2% chlorhexidine and 70% isopropyl alcohol, has demonstrated significantly better antimicrobial activity than other combinations2.
Invicta says the way in which the solution is applied to the skin is as important as the solution itself. Studies show that the most effective way to apply Chloraprep is with a back and forth scrubbing movement because this gives a lower microbial count on the skin than using other application methods3. Once applied, Chloraprep is active in 30 seconds and is effective for up to 48 hours4.
Rob said: "The majority of UK hospitals and the Blood Transfusion Service already use Chloraprep and we are pleased to make this available under the provisions of the cascade."
He added: 'The veterinary nurses I've spoken to love this product, because they're fed up of immersing their dry, cracked hands in disinfectant!'
For further information, please contact Invicta Animal Health on 01403 791313 or email the company at mail@invictavet.com.
1. Florman S, Nichols RL. Am J Infect Dis 2007; 3: 51-61.2. Hibbard JS. J Infus Nurs 2005; 28: 194-207.3. Rosenthal K. Nurs Manage 2006; April: 55-66.4. Garcia R et al. Abstracts of the IDSA 40th Annual Meeting 2002; Abs 418.
Norbrook Laboratories has launched powder and paste versions of Noroquin - its glucosamine-based supplement range - for horses.
Noroquin contains the active ingredients glucosamine, chondrotin sulphate, manganese sulphate, zinc sulphate, absorbic acid and N-Acetyl-D-Glucosamine, designed to maintain healthy cartilage, promote joint management and keep horses mobile.
Michelle Jones, Brand Manager at Norbrook said: "In recent years, horses are increasingly competing longer which means maintaining the longevity of the horse is vitally important for long term success. 60% of lameness is related to osteoarthritis and is regarded as the major cause of disability in the athletic horse.
"With increasing reliability on nutritional supplements and concerns from horse owners about their aging horse, our Noroquin for Horses range can be offered as alternative to traditional pain management products indicated for musculoskeletal ailments or alongside them as a completely safe addition to a joint management programme."
Michelle added: "The Noroquin paste for horses is a highly palatable apple flavored paste that can be fed directly to the horse as a tasty treat and offers an alternative to traditional methods while the Noroquin powder for Horses is a highly palatable powder that can be mixed with food. The product is available in handy single-use sachets for accurate dosing and waterproof 1kg tubs."
Noroquin Powder and Paste for Horses joins the newly launched tasty tablets for dogs and cats and powder for cats in the Noroquin range. It is available from wholesalers.
Norbrook Laboratories has launched Closamectin, a parasiticide which the company says will revolutionise cattle farming and parasite control in meat producing animals.
Closamectin Pour-on is a solution which can quite literally be poured onto the back of animals. It simultaneously treats fluke, worms and external parasites. The new product is the culmination of a six year research project costing £3.5 million and involving 80 scientists at the company's headquarters in Newry Co Down.
Norbrook says it will bring immense benefits for farmers whose cattle are often ravaged by parasitic attack. Fluke in particular can have devastating effects both on beef and dairy herds, seriously weakening, and in some cases killing the animals by destroying their livers. At the very least it collectively costs farmers around £17 million per annum by reducing the weight of beef cattle and the milk yields of dairy cows.
Fluke used to be confined to the western parts of Britain, together with Scotland and Ireland, but global warming has seen other parts of the UK experiencing the same mild and wet conditions on which the parasite thrives. Consequently it is on the rise.
Currently fluke is treated by injection or oral drench - both time-consuming and difficult processes for the farmers which can also be stressful for the animals. In contrast pour-on solutions can be applied swiftly and easily with no detrimental impact on cattle.
Norbrook has been awarded licenses for Closamectin Pour-on in both the UK and Ireland. This is a very significant market: the countries have a combined cattle population of 17 million. There are also plans to roll out the product in other countries.
Developing a pour-on to deal with these parasites has baffled scientists for 20 years. Alistair Couper, Norbrook's Chief Vet said: "This is the Holy Grail of farm animal veterinary medicine. It was a highly complex challenge for our research team. They had to develop a product which would treat different conditions simultaneously and have a molecular structure which could be absorbed straight through the skin. This is a ground breaking achievement and a brilliant piece of science"
Lord Ballyedmond, Chairman of Norbrook Laboratories said: "This is a very important milestone for Norbrook and for livestock and farmers worldwide. We have invested heavily in research and development and the results are there for all to see. We are delighted to have beaten other multinationals. We have now developed the world's most effective remedy for parasite control in cattle that our entering the food chain. I am pleased to state that our business has grown this year indigenously at 12% despite the recession, beating our competitors. This tremendous breakthrough is a great testimony to the brilliance of our scientists in Newry and also to our policy of investing in research. "
The Bella Moss Foundation (BMF) has announced the launch of a mobile app version of its online veterinary practice hygiene audit.
The app, which was developed with the help of Ceva Animal Health, is now available to download free from Google Play (for Android-based smartphones) and itunes.
To download the audit app for iOS visit: https://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/bella-moss-foundation-practice/id1096044355
To download the audit app for Android visit: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=thebellamossfoundation.bmfhygieneself_auditapp
The original online check list, which continues to be hosted on the BMF website, was devised by BMF's team of clinical advisers, including VN Louise O'Dwyer and vets Pam Mosedale, Tim Nuttall and Chris Laurence. It enables staff to rate hygiene protocols across every area of their practice, resulting in a room-by-room percentage hygiene score, as well as an overall contamination risk score.
Since its launch last year, more than 150 practices have used the web-based tool and BMF hopes many more practices will download the app and use it regularly to check and maintain their hygiene standards.
BMF founder and infection control campaigner Jill Moss said: "We are absolutely thrilled to have teamed up with Ceva to create this new super-accessible app version of our audit tool. We've been really pleased to see uptake of the Practice Hygiene Self-Audit online, and hope more practice staff give the smartphone app a go.
"While we all know how important infection control is, sometimes it's the basics that get forgotten in a busy practice environment – but now, with our free audit app in your pocket, implementing good hygiene processes could not be easier, so there's no excuse!"
For more information about BMF, visit www.thebellamossfoundation.com or visit http://www.thebellamossfoundation.com/practice-hygiene-self-audit/ to complete the hygiene audit online.
The company says more and more CT scanners are being used in general practice, but many teams have been telling them they're not sure if they're using their scanner optimally, or that only some of the team are confident in using it.
The online training aims help teams get the best diagnostic use of CT
The first of the sessions, on 15th June, will cover the indications and benefits of CT in small animal practice.
The second on 22nd June will look at how and when to perform CT reconstructions.
Manuel Pinilla, VetCT Supporting Radiologist and Director of Quality Assurance (pictured right), will be delivering the talks.
Manuel said: “We are seeing a rapid increase in the use of CT in first opinion practice.
"We know CT can provide vital diagnostic information in addition to the more traditional modalities of x-ray and ultrasound.
"However, it can be challenging to optimise the diagnostic capability.
"We’re keen to support veterinary teams to help them get the most out of their machine and do the best for their patients and the owners.”
To register for the training, visit: https://welcome.vet-ct.com/ctcpdwebinars
Speakers include Prof. Jo Dukes McEwan, Head of Service, Professor in Small Animal Cardiology (University of Liverpool), Doctor Jennifer Schissler, Veterinary Dermatologist, Best Friends Animal Hospital & Urgent Care Unit (US), and Doctor Pascal Prélaud, Dermatologist, CEO ADVETIA Vet Hospital Center (France).
Participants will also be able to access to an immersive experience, the Vet Symposium Village, which includes the Live Stage, Vet Lab, Clinic Lounge, and Innovation Hub, all offering exclusive videos and lectures.
The event will be translated into Chinese, French, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, and German, and a replay of the event will be available until the end of the year.
Dr. Jennifer Welser, Chief Medical Officer, Mars Veterinary Health, said: “It’s more critical than ever for pet professionals from various countries, fields, and perspectives to meet and share their knowledge.
"I look forward to participating in the Vet Symposium and speaking with my peers on topics ranging from mental health to advancements in quality medical care and retaining veterinary talent.”
https://digital-vetsymposium2022.com/
Research commissioned by Bayer Animal Health has revealed that dogs really do look like their owners.
The research, which is being used to promote Drontal Bone, the company's new bone-shaped wormer, was conducted amongst 3,000 British dog-lovers. It found that the overwhelming majority of owners share at least one common physical attribute with their pet, whilst one in ten owners could be described as the spitting image of their dog, sharing six or more physical attributes:
As part of the campaign, Bayer has launched the Give Your Dog a Bone competition, a nationwide search to find the UK's "Top Dog". The competition is split into four video and photographic categories, with one open exclusively to dogs that have formed a special bond with their owner. Top dogs can enter via the competition website - www.giveyourdogabone.co.uk - where owners can upload photos, videos, and explain in under 100 words why they think their pet should win a Drontal 'Bonies' award.
Give Your Dog a Bone Judge Emma Milne MRCVS, said: "When dogs seem to have the same characteristics as their owners, it could be because people subconsciously choose a pet that resembles themselves. It is often found that more energetic breeds, such as s Red Setter have an owner who is sporty and most happy when taking their pet on long country walks, while a glamorous owner who enjoys grooming themselves might choose a dog which also requires lots preening, such as a Maltese Terrier. The Give Your Dog a Bone awards give us the chance to recognise the unique traits and talents that make dogs such an important part of our lives. With four very different categories, this competition will be wide open to dogs of all shapes, sizes and personalities!"
The company, which was founded by scientists from the human field, managed to raise £8 million of Series A funding by February this year. It is now seeking further investment for an extension to that Series A funding by the autumn.
The company's Chief Scientific Officer is Professor Allan Bradley, Emeritus Director of the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute and a Fellow of the Royal Society (pictured right). He spearheaded the development of mouse transgenics and their translational use, which provided the basis for developing canine monoclonal antibody therapies.
Allan said: "We are growing a world-class scientific team that will enable PetMedix to become a global leader in the development of novel monoclonal antibody therapies for the expanding animal health market. In the short lifetime of the company we have attracted huge talent in both our scientists and executives, and moved into the heart of the Cambridge biotech sphere with its excellent facilities and networking opportunities. The recent appointment of Dr. Fabian Kausche to the board marks our intent to become a global leader in animal health."
CEO, Dr. Tom Weaver added: "We have the people and the technology in place, and are champing at the bit to progress these therapies to reach the pets that could benefit. We know this technology has transformed the treatment and survival of human patients with a variety of conditions and we want to create the same paradigm shift in veterinary treatment options to improve welfare, quality of life and longevity for our dogs and cats."
PetMedix says it is interested in hearing from potential investment partners, and mergers and acquisitions. Contact Jolyon Martin via email: jolyon.martin@PetMedix.co.uk or telephone: +44 (0) 1223 734140,
The CVPM is the industry-recognised professional examination for veterinary managers. Covering six main areas – strategy, finance, marketing, personnel, communications and general management - it is available to VMG members who want to consolidate their knowledge and experience with a recognised qualification. Candidates must be employed in the veterinary sector in a management role.
The regional workshops are free to attend but registration in advance is required.
Saturday 7 March 2020, 10.30 am – 1.00 pmWorkshop 1: Coverdale House, Aviator Court, York YO30 4GZ. Workshop 2: Clue House, Petherton Road, Bristol, BS14 9BZ.
Saturday 21 March Workshop 2020Workshop 1: Goddard Veterinary Group Wanstead Veterinary Hospital, 84 New Wanstead, Wanstead, London E11 2SY.Workshop 2, Manchester: This workshop takes place at the Vets Now Hospital, 98 Bury Old Rd, Whitefield, Manchester M45 6TQ.
Those attending VMG-SPVS Congress 2020 at Celtic Manor Resort, Newport, are also strongly advised to attend the Management Mastery Stream, on Friday 24 January 2020.
VMG Director Ms Georgina Hills (pictured right) said: "Those involved in practice management require expertise in all the key aspects of running a successful business, as well as a deep understanding of the veterinary sector. The CVPM is a testing qualification and is increasingly recognised as a benchmark for excellence. Our regional workshops are ideal preparation for those preparing to submit their applications in August and to undertake the examination in November 2020 so we look forward to meeting potential candidates around the country during 2020."
Miss Emma Hollingworth from the Park Vet Group in Cardiff, who achieved the qualification in 2018, said: "Coming from a nursing background where much of my knowledge was gained through experience, the CVPM required me to research and develop skills which are not taught to all veterinary nurses and I feel it has given me a strong platform from which to develop my career. The VMG provides excellent preparation days and I highly recommend attending one to those sitting the exam."
The CVPM examination consists of a written 3,000-word report and the examination itself which consists of a ten-minute presentation on a subject supplied by the examining board; a 15-minute discussion of the submitted report and two further 30-minute oral exams on related topics.
Further information is available at https://vetmg.com/cvpm-vpac/
The Veterinary Record has published what the British Homeopathy Association is calling the first ever systematic review of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in veterinary homeopathy.
The review was conducted by Dr Robert Mathie, research development adviser to the association, and Dr Jürgen Clausen from the Carstens Foundation, Germany.
They found 18 placebo-controlled RCTs of veterinary homeopathy, published in the peer-reviewed literature, that were eligible for detailed assessment. Of these, only two were judged to provide reliable evidence. The remainder were unclear or had a high risk of bias.
The two studies which were judged reliable were:
HEKTOEN, L., LARSEN, S., ØDEGAARD, S. A. & LOKEN, T. (2004) Comparison of homeopathy, placebo and antibiotic treatment of clinical mastitis in dairy cows - methodological issues and results from a randomized-clinical trial. Journal of Veterinary Medicine. A, Physiology, pathology, clinical medicine 51, 439-446. In this study, homeopathy was shown to be ineffective.
Dr Mathie said: "Up to now, debates about the efficacy or effectiveness of veterinary homeopathy have been polarised by the absence of any systematic review of the subject. Our work clarifies the nature of the current RCT evidence."
Mr Mark Elliott, immediate past president of the British Association of Homeopathic Veterinary Surgeons, said: "This important study affirms that reliable evidence does exist and that more research should be done, particularly in light of current concerns about antibiotic resistance in production animals."
It seems a remarkable admission, that the entire veterinary homeopathy edifice rests upon one study in piglets. However, if that study did prove the efficacy of homeopathy, it would of course be an order of magnitude more remarkable than today's admission.
So, no pressure then, Camerlink et al!
Andrew, who graduated in 2002 from The University of Bristol, started as a farm vet in Devon and Cornwall, which is where he first became interested in cardiology.
He went on to undergo Specialist Training at The University of Edinburgh and then spent four years working in the pharmaceutical industry.
Andrew then spent almost two years as Head of Cardiology at a large referral hospital in Winchester, before leaving to co-found the first ever video consulting platform for pet owners, Pawsquad.
Since then, he has led teams in some of the largest specialist veterinary referral hospitals in Europe.
More recently, Andrew has run his own specialist-led visiting cardiology service, providing clinical consultancy services to 50 veterinary practices across the south of England for the last five years.
Andrew has been an EBVS European Veterinary Specialist in Small Animal Cardiology and a RCVS Recognised Specialist in Veterinary Cardiology for 10 years.
At Lumbry Park, Andrew plans to use his new role to provide specialist-led care to pets from across the South of England, and to provide cardiac clinical input for the multi-disciplinary team at Lumbry Park who manage patients with some of the most complex clinical problems in the country.
www.lumbrypark.co.uk
A shift towards a more outcomes-based model of CPD for veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses has been under discussion for a number of years and one of its main proponents has been the current RCVS Senior Vice-President Professor Stephen May (pictured right), who chaired the CPD Policy Working Party.
Stephen said: "There has been increasing recognition over a range of different professions that CPD records based on ‘inputs’ alone, for example, measuring the number of hours attending a lecture, do not necessarily prove that any significant learning has taken place or that this learning will be used to improve professional practice.
"By contrast, research has demonstrated that CPD activities focused on outcomes encourage professionals to reflect on what they have learned, how they will apply their learning and how it will improve their practice, which has a positive impact on professionalism and patient health outcomes. Numerous other professions, including human medicine and dentistry, have moved to this model and the veterinary world has been somewhat ‘behind the curve’ as a result.
"However, as with any significant shift in policy, there has been a recognition that we needed to take the profession with us and not force through change. This is why, in March 2017, we launched a pilot scheme for the outcomes-based model with veterinary and veterinary nurse volunteers, including people who, during the initial consultation stage, had voiced some skepticism towards the concept.
"The overall feedback from volunteers was very positive and supportive towards the changes and I look forward, over the coming years, to talking to the professions at large about the benefits of the approach and how to best engage with the model."
In all, around 120 volunteers took part in the pilot, of whom 70% were veterinary surgeons and 30% veterinary nurses. When the pilot finished in October 2018, volunteers provided feedback as part of the evaluation process. Of the 57% of volunteers (n=70) who responded to the survey:
77% said they would be willing to use an outcomes-based CPD model in the future;
41% found it ‘easy’ or ‘very easy’ to implement outcomes-based CPD while only 11% thought it was either ‘difficult’ or ‘very difficult’;
61% thought that the outcomes-based model made CPD more meaningful for them and 25% said it encouraged them to undertake a wider range of CPD activities than previously;
Other feedback included the need for a better CPD recording system and more information and guidance ahead of any future changes.
Following the feedback, particularly around the need for a new approach to CPD recording, it was also recommended to Council that a new online CPD recording system should be introduced. This system will integrate the current disparate systems, such as the Student Experience Log (for vet students), Nursing Progress Log (for student VNs) and the Professional Development Phase (for recent vet graduates), making it a ‘one-stop shop’ professional development recording platform.
Richard Burley, RCVS Chief Technology Officer, said: "We will be building a new platform, consolidating all professional development-related capability for all members, into a single, integrated solution, seamlessly accessible via our ‘My Account’ online portal, and forthcoming mobile app. We have assembled a new, dedicated, software development team to drive this work and more details about this system will be published in coming months."
Linda Prescott-Clements, RCVS Director of Education, added:"Following the approval of the CPD proposals by RCVS Council, a phased roll-out of the new model and the accompanying IT system will take place. This includes recruiting a group of volunteers from the profession later this year to get some initial feedback around the guidance resources and online CPD platform, with members of the profession being voluntarily able to sign up to the new model and IT system from January 2020 onwards.
"Implementation of the new CPD requirement for all members is expected to start in January 2022 but, prior to that, we will be working hard to talk to the profession about why an outcomes-based model is a more effective and meaningful way of undertaking CPD and this will include workshops, webinars and roadshows. Look out for more news on our plans over the coming months."
For more information about the College’s current CPD policy requirement and policy, visit: www.rcvs.org.uk/cpd
York-based Alstoe Animal Health, maker of Gleptosil and Vetergesic, has been acquired by French company Sogeval, a leading supplier of companion and livestock animal products.
Established in 1994, Alstoe was privatelv owned by the two original partners, John Nellis and lan Ryder.
For the last five years the company has been working with Sogeval to develop flavoured tablet pharmaceutical brands from Sogeval whilst the two companies have collaborated to make Vetergesic successful in France.
The business will continue to trade from the current premises for the foreseeable future and says it will maintain its high standard of customer service and product supply.
John Nellis said: "lt will be business as usual. We look forward to continued sales growth for our existing brands and the introduction of exciting new products in the future".
Dr. lan Ryder said: "Our companies have worked very well together in the past. The acquisition will bring fresh impetus to the business and ensure continued growth"
The current Alstoe team remains in place to assist with any enquiries. For further information contact info@alstoe.co.uk or telephone: 01347 878605
With at least 65% of dogs and 39% of cats reported as overweight (1&2), the competition is designed to promote a healthy body shape for cats and dogs, and reward the hard work of pet owners and veterinary nurses for achieving and maintaining a pet’s healthy weight. It is open to patients that are starting out on a weight loss programme, those maintaining a healthy body shape following weight loss and even those who have always been a healthy weight and shape.
Six finalists will be selected from all the entries and invited to attend an awards lunch where the overall winner will be announced. All finalists will receive a £100 shopping voucher and the overall winner will receive a £1000 holiday voucher.
Caroline Burke, Weight Management Specialist at Royal Canin said: "The Healthy Weight Competition is the perfect opportunity for veterinary nurses and owners to tackle this serious disease and prevent it occurring.
"There are many health issues associated with an animal being overweight as well as affecting quality of life, longevity and the welfare of the pet. The Healthy Weight Competition is an ideal opportunity for practices to identify the overweight patients, enrol them on a weight loss programme and enter the competition. It also enables them to reward those cats and dogs who have maintained an ideal body shape and weight over a period of time."
The competition is open until 31st of August 2018.
For more information, visit: www.royalcaninhealthyweight.co.uk or contact your Veterinary Business Manager.
The modules, which are presented by US veterinary oncology specialists Dr Chad Johannes and Dr Sue Ettinger, are titled: ‘Mastering Mast Cell Tumours’, ‘Treating Canine Mast Cell Tumours’ and ‘Stelfonta’.
Each of the modules offer 30 minutes of bitesize, interactive CPD and are suitable for both veterinary surgeons and nurses.
Dr Neil Mottram MRCVS, Technical Product Manager at Virbac said: ‘We appreciate that for the majority of veterinary teams, finding time for CPD is pretty challenging at present. We therefore hope that the bitesize, on-demand format of these modules can provide the perfect solution, whilst still delivering high quality CPD’.
The modules can be accessed at: vet-uk.virbac.com/stelfonta/education
Virtual lunch and learn meetings are also available from Virbac Territory Managers.
For more information, speak to your Virbac Territory Manager, or visit vet-uk.virbac.com/stelfonta
Sedaxylan 20 mg/ml contains the short acting alpha-2 agonist xylazine and is licensed for I/V administration.
It is also licensed for I/M administration in cattle; it has zero milk withdrawal and short one day meat withdrawal and sedation occurs in cattle within two minutes I/V and five to 10 minutes I/M.
Sedaxylan 20 mg/ml joins Dechra’s Nerfasin vet 100 mg/ml solution in the company’s anaesthesia and sedation range. Nerfasin vet also contains xylazine and is licensed for I/V administration for sedation and premedication prior to general anaesthesia in horses and cattle.
Alana McGlade, national sales manager at Dechra, said: “Dechra offers a comprehensive range of anaesthesia and sedation products allowing vets to customise protocols to the individual animal.
"Sedaxylan 20mg/ml and Nerfasin vet 100 mg/ml solution provide vets with flexible and convenient dosing options.”
Both Sedaxylan 20 mg/ml and Nerfasin vet 100 mg/ml are available in 25ml vials.
For more information, talk to your Dechra territory sales manager.
www.dechra.co.uk.
Vets Now launched the service at the start of the pandemic to provide remote veterinary advice, and it has now expanded from eight to nearly 30 emergency vets.
In 2022, Video Vets Now had over 13,000 consultations, with 80% of these occurring out-of-hours. Sundays are the busiest day, with almost a third of all consultations taking place.
Of these total consultations, 17% of pets were discharged normally, 7% were immediately referred in-clinic, and 48% were discharged as non-emergency cases, but with a recommendation to get a daytime vet appointment within 48 hours.
Dave Leicester, Vets Now’s head of telehealth says the fact that so few of Video Vets Now calls are referred on to a face-to-face consultation is a real benefit for pet owners and the veterinary profession: “Over two thirds of cases don’t need to be seen urgently by a vet.
"A lot of the cases are pet owners needing some clinical reassurance.
"As cases are triaged remotely, the service therefore frees up clinical staff for genuine emergencies.
“Additionally, without the service, many clients would have no other option than to attend for a full consultation at an out-of-hours clinic; so, clients save money too, allowing them to save their budget to spend at their daytime practices.
“Following the triage consultation, if the pet does need a non-urgent face-to-face consultation, we always direct clients to their registered vet. The £24 Video Vets Now consultation fee is then refunded.
"We call this our ‘Never Pay Twice’ promise, and it applies regardless of where that follow on consultation takes place.
"We see this as a win-win situation for clients and practices.”
Dave continued: “Over the past three years, Video Vets Now has seen unparalleled growth, providing essential care and reassurance for pet owners during a time of many challenges to traditional veterinary practice.
“As the pandemic has drawn to a close, we have consolidated our position as one of the UK's foremost providers of teletriage.
"Looking to the future, the changes in veterinary regulation will allow us to grow further and expand the range of services we can provide, bringing telehealth to an even greater number of pet owners.”