Musculoskeletal therapists currently have their work underpinned by an Exemption Order to the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 which allows them to treat an animal under the direction of a veterinary surgeon who has first examined that animal.
The College says it has recognised that there has been confusion over whether musculoskeletal therapists need a veterinary referral for maintenance work, such as massage, in a healthy animal. This may lead to delays in animals receiving maintenance care.
The new guidance, found in Chapter 19 (www.rcvs.org.uk/unqualified) of the supporting guidance to the Code of Professional Conduct, sets out the existing rules for musculoskeletal treatment of illness, disease or pathology, and clarifies that healthy animals do not need a veterinary referral for maintenance care.
The guidance stresses that musculoskeletal therapists are part of the vet-led team, and that any animal, including healthy ones, should be registered with a veterinary surgeon and referred to a vet at the first sign of any symptoms that may suggest underlying health issues.
The guidance also says that vets should be confident that the musculoskeletal therapist is appropriately qualified; indicators of this can include membership of a voluntary regulatory body with a register of practitioners, and associated standards of education and conduct, supported by a complaints and disciplinary process.
In March 2019 the RCVS published the Review of Minor Procedures Regime (www.rcvs.org.uk/document-library/report-to-defra-on-the-review-of-minor-procedures-regime-and/) which noted that the existing exemption order was not suitable for underpinning the work of musculoskeletal therapists, and recommended that this be remedied by reform of Schedule 3 of the Veterinary Surgeons Act, alongside regulation by the RCVS through Associate status for musculoskeletal therapists.
This would allow the RCVS to set and uphold standards for musculoskeletal therapists in a similar way to veterinary nurses, giving further assurance to both the veterinary professions and the public. The recent Legislation Working Party Report recommendations builds on that recommendation, and is currently open for consultation at www.rcvs.org.uk/consultations
Animalcare has released further information about Vitofyllin (propentofylline), its new CNS stimulant for dogs.
According to the company, Vitofyllin helps restore vitality and willingness to exercise, especially in the senior dog, by improving peripheral and cerebral vascular blood circulation. It is indicated to help improve dullness, lethargy and overall demeanour in dogs. In addition it has a bronchodilatory activity equivalent to amilophylline (a salt of theophylline)
Animalcare says that with dogs living longer, age-related problems are on the increase. The company highlights the example of Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS), a neurodegenerative disease that affects older dogs. CDS is characterised by various pathological processes with signs that include disorientation, changing interaction with people or other pets, sleep-wake cycle alterations, soiling in the house and decreased activity levels.
The company says these subtle behavioural changes are unlikely to be picked up at a routine annual check. Indeed, in one study 75% of owners of dogs aged over 7 reported at least one behavioural sign consistent with CDS, however only 12% reported their concerns to a vet.2
Vitofyllin is available in 50mg and 100mg strengths in blister packs containing 56 tablets. Presented as 'easy to administer' four-way split cross-snap-tabs which can be divided into halves or quarters to enable more accurate dosing to be achieved whatever the weight of animal, even down to 2.5kg bodyweight.
Vitofyllin is POM-V licensed and has a 3 year shelf-life. Waiting room posters and client leaflets are available to support recognition of behavioural signs by clients and practice staff.
Further iinformation, and details about a special launch offer are available from local Animalcare representatives.
Reference
The British Small Animal Veterinary Association (BSAVA) has announced that it is opening its membership to RCVS registered veterinary nurses for the first time.
BSAVA has always been keenly involved with veterinary nurse issues and has representation on the RCVS nurse Awarding Body Board and observers on VN Council. Membership Development Committee Chair Patricia Colville said: "The association strongly believes that are nurses are integral to the care the profession offers to patients, and we have always taken advice from our members on ways we can support nurses on the many issues that they have been faced with over the last number of years, from the change in nurse training to compulsory CPD and the future change to self-regulation. Now it is time to formally recognise the services we offer to VNs and bring them into a package of benefits that they can collect as a member of the Association".
Patricia added: "There have been many changes over the last 50 years, during which nurse training has developed in its own right. The depth and breadth of knowledge that nurses have, and the amount of work that they have to do to gain the VN qualification is vast and it is a great credit to the veterinary world that this level of dedication has developed. It is fantastic to see the amount of CPD on offer now and the enthusiasm and dedication that nurses show in continuing to develop their skills, which has contributed to the betterment of practice life and animal welfare".
Membership for VNs is being launched at the first year introductory price of £66 in 2011, rising to £100 per annum in 2012.
Practices interested in how BSAVA membership can support their nursing staff, and veterinary nurses interested in membership should register at http://www.bsava.com/, email administration@bsava.com or call 01452 726700.
Dechra Veterinary Products has launched Myorelax, a guaifenesin 100 mg/ml solution for infusion for horses which, the company says, relaxes skeletal muscles within minutes.
Dechra's Equine Brand Manager Emma Jennings said: "Myorelax is indicated for the induction of muscle relaxation and immobilisation, as an adjunct to balanced anaesthesia.
"We're delighted to launch this product, which can be combined with a number of sedatives and anaesthetics including detomidine, ketamine and propofol plus local and volatile anaesthetics.
"Myorelax is a centrally acting muscle relaxant which is effective within a few minutes and does not affect the animal's respiratory muscles at therapeutic doses. It can be used in combination with a sedative and local anaesthetics for short procedures and together with appropriate general anaesthetics for induction and maintenance of muscle relaxation during anaesthesia."
Dechra says that horses are able to stand within 45 minutes after single administration, and the product can be used in a 'triple drip' protocol for total intravenous anaesthesia.
Myorelax is available in 500 ml bottles from veterinary wholesalers.
For further information, visit www.dechra.co.uk
Prevexxion RN is composed of a serotype-1 construct vaccine which Boehringer says offers a unique balance between safety and efficacy against the most virulent types of Marek’s disease virus strains.
Prevexxion RN+HVT+IBD is a solution combining Prevexxion RN and Vaxxitek HVT+IBD in one ampoule. It is designed to meet the needs of customers in long-life bird segments with protection from the hatchery.
Prevexxion RN vaccines are available in ampoules of 1000, 2000, and 4000 doses, frozen in liquid nitrogen.
Jerôme Baudon, Head of Poultry at Boehringer Ingelheim, said: “Our Prevexxion RN range provides value through innovation to Marek sensitive poultry producers looking for continuous live production productivity improvement and effective protection. Field and lab experiments conducted worldwide demonstrated its safety, efficacy and its strong, early, and long-lasting protection through the lifespan of the birds and against very virulent Marek’s disease challenge.
Prevexxion RN is the new golden standard for Marek's disease vaccination programs2”.
For more information, contact your Boehringer Ingelheim representative.
Zoetis, formerly Pfizer Animal Health has launched Ovatec Plus, which it claims will make equine faecal collection and in-practice worm count testing quicker and easier.
Ovatec Plus is designed to facilitate the in-house detection of worm burdens by enabling the coproscopic examination of parasite eggs, larvae and cysts. Zoetis says the built-in sample collection scoop allows for hands-off, quick, clean sample collection and controlled sample size, while the built-in cap, which can be written on for easy identification, snaps shut to seals the contents safely for contamination-free transport.
The system is based on zinc sulphate flotation technology, with a flotation time of ten minutes to provide rapid analysis. The Ova-Spin feature will break up difficult samples. The positive-locking filter chamber prevents any spill of test samples and reduces operator exposure to potential hazards. The overflow reservoir prevents overfills leaking onto the lab bench.
Zoetis says the high sensitivity and excellent specificity of Ovatec Plus enable informed treatment decisions to be made. A study has shown that samples proving negative with Ovatec Plus provide 95% certainty that the sample is <150epg and 100% certainty that the sample is <250epg, which means treatment may not be necessary1. Samples that prove positive, with one or more eggs seen, can be verified using a quantitative technique if needed, alternatively treatment may be indicated.
Ben Lacey, equine business unit manager at Zoetis, said: "Ovatec Plus is an excellent addition to our equine worm control portfolio. It's ideal for use in many test situations, giving a quick, easy and convenient solution."
To find out more, speak to your Zoetis Account Manager, call 0845 300 8034 or email CustomerSupportUK@zoetis.com.
First prize went to the University of Edinburgh’s Molly Vasanthakumar (pictured right) for her Knowledge Summary comparing the ecological impact of woven versus disposable drapes. Molly found that there is not enough evidence that disposable synthetics reduce the risk of surgical site infections when compared to reusable woven drapes, based on her assessment of the available literature.
Molly said: “The Veterinary Evidence student competition gave me an opportunity to identify a specific issue, find and appraise the evidence and then apply it to a practical setting.
"Winning the competition has given me a chance to further my skills in evidence-based veterinary medicine [EBVM] and also raise awareness of an incredibly important and topical issue."
Molly received her prize at RCVS Day, and her published paper can now be read in Veterinary Evidence: http://bit.ly/MollyVasanthakumar
Second prize went to Honoria Brown of the University of Cambridge, whose paper asked: "Can hoof wall temperature and digital pulse pressure be used as sensitive non-invasive diagnostic indicators of acute laminitis onset?"
Honoria said: "Writing this Knowledge Summary was the perfect chance, not only to develop my ability to navigate and analyse databases, but also to present my findings for the benefit of other clinicians who face these issues.
"I feel that these skills will be very useful to me later in my career, and I am grateful to Veterinary Evidence for providing me with the opportunity."
Jacqueline Oi Ping Tong from the University of Edinburgh won third prize for her critical appraisal of the evidence for whether a daily probiotic improved clinical outcomes in dogs with idiopathic diarrhoea. She said: "This experience makes me recognise the importance of evidence-based veterinary medicine to the veterinary community; it connects scientific research to everyday practice.
"It was a great opportunity to engage in EBVM early in my veterinary career, and start learning how to critically appraise the current evidence."
Jacqueline and Honoria’s Knowledge Summaries have been accepted for future publication in Veterinary Evidence.
All submissions were subjected to the same standards and peer-review process as normal journal submissions.
RCVS Knowledge’s Executive Director, Chris Gush, said: "EBVM and its application into practice starts as part of the undergraduate degree, and we are delighted to encourage and champion student involvement.
"This new initiative from our journal taps into the student body’s potential to help grow the evidence base, whilst preparing the next generation of veterinary professionals for when they graduate."
The Veterinary Evidence Student Awards are running again for 2020 and are open for submissions.
The awards are open to all undergraduates studying veterinary medicine, veterinary nursing or bioveterinary science (and equivalent). More information can be found here: http://bit.ly/VEstudentawards
The company says that despite the development of alternatives to natural bone grafting, such as allografts and synthetic products, autologous bone graft is still considered the standard. However, it has a number of disadvantages, such as donor site morbidities and lameness, limited availability of graft volume (particularly in small size pets) and additional surgical time.
Biocera-Vet is a new bone substitute indicated in surgical procedures where bone grafting is necessary, such as arthrodesis, complex fractures, corrective osteotomy used in correction of limb deformities or as add-on to Tibial Tuberosity Advancement (TTA).
Biocera-Vet is an injectable synthetic self-hardening calcium-phosphate cement combining osteo-inductive, osteo-conductive and osteo-integrative properties designed to support a fast and strong consolidation.
TheraVet says Biocera-Vet also presents an excellent safety profile thanks to its biocompatibility, reduced comorbidities and superior ergonomics which save a significant amount of surgical time.
Dr Olivier Stiévenart, an orthopaedic veterinary surgeon at Surgivet in Belgium said: "Using Biocera-Vet has enabled us to optimise our patient care considerably, by reducing the operating time by at least 30 minutes. The use of an efficient and rapid bone substitute represents a real progress in terms of both operations and the animal’s quality of life".
Julie Schurgers, Chief Commercial Officer of TheraVet, said: "Biocera-Vet is a unique product on the veterinary bone substitute market, combining outstanding bone consolidation properties with an excellent safety profile and superior ergonomics. We are very excited today to announce its commercialisation on the market and are convinced that this innovative product will significantly improve the daily practices of veterinarians, for the well-being of patients and their owners."
The product is now available in Belgium, and will be rolled out in France and the Netherlands shortly, with the rest of Europe following later in 2021 / 2022.
For more information, visit: https://www.thera.vet/en/biocera-vet
To mark today's European Antibiotic Awareness Day 2010, the British Veterinary Association is warning veterinary surgeons in the UK that failure to use antimicrobials responsibly could result in their use being restricted.
The BVA promotes the responsible use of antimicrobials and last year published a poster and guidance for vets: 'Responsible use of antimicrobials in veterinary practice: the 8-point plan'. According to the association, the poster received very positive feedback from across the UK and from the Federation of Veterinarians of Europe (FVE).
Concerns regarding resistance to antimicrobials and antibiotics span both the human and animal medicine fields and in 2008 the Chief Medical Officer called for a ban on the use of certain types of antibiotics in animals in order to protect their activity in humans.
Furthermore some EU Member States already restrict the availability of antimicrobials to veterinary surgeons and adopt a strict formulary approach to the medicines that they can prescribe. The BVA says it is concerned that this trend will reach the UK and the freedom of vets to prescribe according to their clinical judgement will be restricted.
Harvey Locke, President of the BVA, said: "Antimicrobial resistance is an enormous problem for both human and animal health. As veterinary surgeons we have a duty to use these medicines responsibly for the good of animal health and welfare as well as public health.
"The BVA's poster on responsible use should be displayed in veterinary practices across the UK as a constant reminder, and I would urge all vets to refer to it.
"Failure to heed the message of responsible use could result in vets losing the right to prescribe certain medicines, which could have a significant impact on animal health and welfare.
"On Antibiotic Awareness Day our message to vets is clear: use them responsibly or lose them."
The disease had been identified as a priority by the Wales Animal Health and Welfare Framework Group.
Further details will be announced in the coming months following ongoing discussions with industry representatives.
The Minister said: "Sheep scab has significant economic consequences for sheep producers and animal welfare issues for sheep. It is one of the most contagious disease of sheep in Wales and eradicating it is a priority for us and the industry.
"I’m pleased to be able to announce £5m Rural Development Programme funding will be used to help support the industry tackle the disease. Eradicating the disease has the potential to deliver significant lasting economic benefits for the sector at a particularly challenging time as we prepare to leave the European Union."
The first, carried out by Nanna Luthersson and colleagues and published online in the Journal of Equine Veterinary Science in March, evaluated the laminitis risk factors in a group of Danish horses and ponies.1 It confirmed that Cold-blooded type animals <149cm, such as certain native ponies, as well as those being kept on high quality pasture were at an increased risk of developing laminitis for the first time. It also highlighted the important role that a change in grass intake, in terms of both type and amount, may play at any time of the year not only the spring as commonly thought.
The second study, funded in part by the PetPlan Charitable Trust, British Veterinary Association Animal Welfare Foundation Norman Hayward Fund and the Laminitis Trust, was undertaken in conjunction with Nicola Menzies-Gow (Royal Veterinary College) and published online in the Equine Veterinary Journal (EVJ) in August. The study evaluated the risk factors for the development of laminitis prior to the occurrence of the disease.2 It identified that low concentrations of the adipose tissue derived hormone adiponectin, together with high serum insulin concentrations (at rest and as part of a diagnostic test for PPID) may predict an increased risk of future pasture-associated laminitis.
It is hoped that future studies will be able to generate more robust cut off values, which will more accurately predict future laminitis development in an individual animal.
The RVC in collaboration with Waltham is now taking this forward through a study in which these markers are measured regularly, in conjunction with a detailed management assessment, in a group of ponies with no known history of laminitis at the start.
Clare Barfoot RNutr and the research and development manager at Spillers said: "The Danish study gives us important practical facts about the susceptibility of cold-blooded types, and is particularly applicable to natives in the UK. The second study gives hope that there may soon be a test or series of tests that will help predict those at an increased risk of suffering from pasture associated laminitis in the future thereby reducing the number of animals affected by this debilitating condition. In the meantime until we fully understand the condition it is sensible to manage all the risk factors we currently know about, in particular keeping your horse at a healthy weight."
References
The awards, comprising academic book vouchers, were presented at the University’s RCVS ceremony after graduation earlier this month.
Jamie Rahman BVSc won the award for the most engaged veterinary student on EMS placement. Feedback about his placement included: 'Exceptional attitude'. 'Contributed actively to good clinical discussion'. 'Intelligent and engaging’. 'Shows true dedication to learning as much as he can whilst in practice, trying to spend as much time with the different specialists as possible'.
Meanwhile, Cheviot Vets in Alnwick won the students' award for outstanding clinical EMS placement 2019. Comments received from students included: ‘I would not be nearly as prepared and ready for practice without the support and training of the team at Cheviot Vets.’ ‘They invested an incredible amount of time into helping me develop my husbandry knowledge and skills.’ ‘Really supportive manner and encouraged me to develop my skills.’
Sarah Heming, Director of Public Affairs and Customer Relations at Zoetis said: "Zoetis has a high focus on supporting the professional advancement of the veterinary profession. We are proud sponsors of the EMS Recognition Awards for Bristol University alongside other initiatives such as the Young Vet of the Year Awards in partnership with the British Veterinary Association.
"The initial stages of a veterinary career are pivotal so helping winning individuals to invest in academic or professional resources to support their continued development in practice can be very beneficial. We would also like to formally thank the winning practices for their invaluable commitment and support."
Reverse wound bandages are made with the adhesive on the outside and design printed on the inside, making it easier to apply the bandage without over-tightening.
The company says it has launched the new reverse-wound bandage in response to demand from veterinary practices.
The bandages come in two widths: five and 7.5 cm, in a range of colours and designs which were chosen by veterinary nurses. They are 2.2m long, stretching to 4.5m, and J.A.K Marketing says they are super flexible, lightweight and easy to tear.
For more information, visit: https://www.jakmarketing.co.uk/products/aniwrap-sketch.html
David Chalkley MRCVS faces four alleged charges:
At the start of the hearing Mr Chalkley made no admissions as to the charges but he had made an application for an adjournment based on undertakings to remove himself from the Register and never to apply to be restored to the Register.
In addressing the Committee on behalf of Mr Chalkley, his counsel said that Mr Chalkley denied all charges of dishonesty, that there was no evidence of harm to animals as a result of the alleged conduct, that there had been no complaint from the client and that he had repaid all the sums he had received for tuberculin testing on the farm in question.
His counsel also submitted that a full hearing would be expensive and time-consuming, and that it would serve no useful purpose as animal welfare and the protection of the public would be served by Mr Chalkley’s proposed undertakings.
Counsel on behalf of the RCVS confirmed that the College did not oppose the application and confirmed that the Animal Plant and Health Agency did not object.
However, the Disciplinary Committee concluded that because the case concerned issues of alleged dishonesty in veterinary certification over a prolonged period of time and the importance of public trust in the accuracy and reliability of that process, there was a need to hold a full, public hearing into Mr Chalkley’s alleged conduct.
Ian Arundale, chairing the Committee and speaking on its behalf, said: “The Committee expressed no view as to whether the allegations could be substantiated or not and it recognised that the process of determining the allegations would be burdensome for many, particularly the respondent.
"It was satisfied, however, that a reasonable and fully informed member of the public would be disturbed to learn that allegations of this kind had not been the subject of a formal determination by the Disciplinary Committee. The respondent’s own interests had to take second place to this important public interest.
“The Committee therefore declined to accept the application to adjourn this inquiry [until an unspecified date] and directed that arrangements should now be considered for the listing of a hearing in this case.”
It is expected that the full hearing will take place in spring 2021.
Neurodiversity Celebration Week is a worldwide initiative that challenges stereotypes and misconceptions about neurological differences, and the neurodiversity resource hub (www.vetmindmatters.org/resources/) aims to help members of the veterinary professions better understand how, for over one million people in the UK, neurological differences mean they learn and think in a way that is different to what is considered ‘neurotypical’.
Among the resources contained in the hub is information about neurological conditions closely associated with neurodivergence such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism, dyspraxia and dyslexia, as well as information for employers about neurodiversity, including inclusive working tools and sources of government support.
A new ‘kite’ with six new modules are also being added to the MMI Kite App – a specialist microlearning platform for topics related to veterinary wellbeing – that deal specifically with issues related to neurodiversity. The six modules cover: what is neurodiversity; the importance of talking about neurodiversity; different types of neurodiversity; bespoke considerations for neurodivergent individuals; how neurodivergence can lead to innovation through thinking differently; and, exploring further how different brains work and how we can make our brains work best for us.
The College is also publishing a blog on the resource website by Dr Kirstie Pickles, Clinical Assistant Professor in Equine Medicine at the University of Nottingham, about her current MMI-funded research investigating the various workplace stressors that affect autistic veterinary professionals and what adjustments can be introduced to mitigate these stressors.
Lastly, at BSAVA Congress on Saturday 26 March between 3pm and 4pm, the RCVS has organised a discussion session on neurodiversity.
The discussion will be led by Roxanne Hobbs, a consultant in workplace inclusion particularly around neurodiversity, and will look at how to nurture and cultivate neurodiversity in the veterinary professions.
Lisa Quigley, Mind Matters Manager, said: “As a project focused on the mental health and wellbeing of veterinary professionals, the Mind Matters project has a commitment to recognising and providing a space for all forms of diversity, and so we are very glad to be supporting Neurodiversity Celebration Week again this year.
“We hope that our neurodiversity resource hub and our other initiatives during Neurodiversity Celebration Week will be useful source of information for everyone and will aid people in understanding neurodivergence, how it can manifest and how it can be supported in the workplace and educational settings.”
Novartis Animal Health has announced that it will no longer be manufacturing and supplying the enzootic abortion vaccine, Mydiavac.
The company reassures its customers that current stocks will continue to be distributed as smoothly as possible.
Prior to joining Fitzpatrick Referrals, Gerard was a Senior Lecturer in Internal Medicine at the University of Glasgow as well as Head of the Emergency Service and Director of both the Internship and ECVIM Residency Programmes. He is also a European and Royal College Recognised Specialist in Internal Medicine, and recently became one of few specialists in the world to have completed a 12 month Fellowship in Interventional Radiology at the Animal Medical Center in New York.
Gerard said: "When I returned to the UK, it was a natural fit for me to join Fitzpatrick Referrals. The team all share the same ethos and together I know we will be able to offer a truly world-class service to our patients and their family. I genuinely believe we will be able to change what is accepted as the gold standard of care for animals in the UK."
Fitzpatrick Referrals says its interventional radiology service performs minimally invasive procedures that are often considered the standard of care in human medicine, providing options for veterinary patients where conventional therapies are not associated with the best outcome.
Clinical Director of Oncology and Soft Tissue, Professor Nick Bacon said: "Gerard joining the team in Guildford opens new doors for our patients but more importantly we hope the disciplines of veterinary oncology and soft tissue surgery as a whole. He brings huge experience in interventional radiology solutions for portosystemic shunts, tracheal collapse and urinary calculi obstruction. Gerard is also key to developing our cancer care. Progress is not about ever bigger treatments chasing a cure; it can just as easily mean delivering palliative or curative-intent treatments in smarter ways, with less side-effects and lower morbidity. I am looking forward to watching our treatments evolve for a variety of tumours including urinary, liver, lung and head and neck. No cancer treatment is perfect, but we are striving for the best we can for the patient in front of us."
Noel Fitzpatrick said: "It remains my objective to build the greatest team of super-specialists on planet earth where we can offer all of the options to all of the animals and the families that love them all of the time. Gerard has a unique skill set that will not only complement our growing team, but will enhance the spectrum of treatments we can offer and which the families of animals throughout the UK and beyond really want. Increasingly people want the same level of care for their dogs and cats as we have for ourselves and our goal is to deliver exactly that with the very best team and facilities in the world today."
Fitzpatrick Referrals will be holding a Partners in Care CPD session on 25th May inviting vets to meet Dr Gerard McLauchlan and discover more about the interventional radiology service. To register your interest, contact Sarah on SarahC@fitzpatrickreferrals.co.uk.
CCTV will be required in all areas where live animals are present, with unrestricted access to footage for Official Veterinarians.
In addition, the Government has also announced that it will be modernising statutory animal welfare codes to reflect enhancements in medicines, technology and the latest research and advice from veterinary surgeons. The codes will remain enshrined in law and the first to be updated will cover chickens bred for meat.
Consultations on these proposals have been launched this morning (https://consult.defra.gov.uk/farm-animal-welfare/cctv-in-slaughterhouses/ and https://consult.defra.gov.uk/animal-health-and-welfare/code-of-practice-for-the-welfare-of-meat-chickens/)
Environment Secretary Michael Gove said: "We have some of the highest animal welfare standards in the world and the actions I am setting out today will reinforce our status as a global leader.
"As we prepare to leave the EU, these measures provide a further demonstration to consumers around the world that our food is produced to the very highest standards."
BVA President Gudrun Ravetz said: "Today’s announcement is extremely welcome. We have been campaigning on this issue for a number of years and this announcement represents a huge win for animal health and welfare in England.
"Mandatory CCTV in all areas of slaughterhouses will provide an essential tool in fostering a culture of compassion that could help safeguard animal welfare and we are particularly pleased to see a commitment to Official Veterinarians having unrestricted access to footage.
"Vets' independence and unique qualifications help ensure that the UK will continue to have the highest standards of animal health, welfare and food safety.
"We recognise that the cost of installing CCTV may be a burden for some very small abattoirs, but it is important that the animals we farm for food have both a good life and a humane death and CCTV has a key role to play in ensuring these requirements are met."
Gudrun added: "We welcome the consultation to update welfare codes for farmed animals and pets, many of which are in urgent need of updating to reflect the latest animal welfare science and good practice. We are keen to see Defra working with the veterinary profession, industry and all relevant stakeholders to ensure vital welfare codes are brought up to date."
John Tasker of the British Veterinary Poultry Association said: "BVPA are committed to supporting research and implementation of best practice in all aspects of poultry production, including welfare on farm and in the abattoir. We look forward to cooperating fully with Defra in development and implementation of these new initiatives. The British poultry industry has some of the highest welfare standards in the world and seeks to continually update and refine its practices in the light of new research, and to maintain public confidence in the industry."
Photo: Lititz, Pennsylvania. Hoisting a slaughtered steer in Benjamin Lutz's slaughterhouse, 1942. Wikipedia.
Elanco Companion Animal Health has launched a competition to encourage veterinary professionals to showcase the company's new range of practice support materials for the company's parasiticides, Comfortis and Trifexin.
To enter the competition, you'll first need to order the support materials, which include: waiting room posters, client leaflets and a waiting room leaflet dispenser, modular window hangers, social media artwork and display kits which consist of 19 die-cut colour pieces for waiting room displays. Entry / order forms are available here.
Then create your display and email a digital photograph of it to Elanco before the 29th August 2014.
Matthew Rowe, Senior Brand Manager at Elanco said: "We're asking veterinary practices to use their creativity and imagination when putting up their parasite control displays. Last year's winner, the Animal Health Centre in Torquay, even composed their own song, so the more creative the better!"
The overall winner will win a team celebration worth £1000, and there are £250 Amazon vouchers for 11 regional winners.
For further information contact your local Elanco Companion Animal Health key account manager or email elancocahuk@elanco.com
Is it right to keep treating an animal just because the technology is available? This is a question that Noel Fitzpatrick, aka the BBC's Bionic Vet, will be addressing at this year's British Veterinary Association (BVA) Congress, in a debate titled 'Treatment too far?' on Friday 24th September at 4pm.
The BVA Congress will take place in the Glasgow Marriott Hotel on 23-25 September 2010 under the theme 'Vets and the Public Good', looking at the role of veterinary surgeons in all aspects of society.
Organisers say that Congress will be a truly Scottish event, led by BVA President Professor Bill Reilly (born and bred in Glasgow and a graduate of Glasgow Vet School) with clinical CPD sessions delivered by Scotland's finest research and academic institutions.
This year also boasts a full non-clinical stream of lectures tackling employment law, management skills, and mental health.
Highlights include:
Vets and the public good: the broader perspective (Wooldridge Memorial Lecture)Professor Stuart Reid, Dean of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Glasgow will deliver the keynote Wooldridge Memorial Lecture. He will consider the extent of the veterinary contribution to society, which extends into areas such as public health, infectious disease control, scientific research, public education, food production, national security, disaster management, care of the environment, and international development. (Fri 24 Sept, 12.15-13.25)
Pets and society: turning a blind eye to abuse?It is nearly a decade since attention began to be drawn to evidence of links between animal abuse and domestic violence towards humans. This session will examine the dilemmas confronting practising vets, asking at what stage should suspicions of abuse be reported and to whom? (Fri 24 Sept, 11.00-12.00)
Four into one must go Following last year's highly popular session, the UK's four CVOs will again come together to debate and discuss current issues in veterinary politics and animal health and welfare, under the chairmanship of BVA President Professor Bill Reilly. (Sat 25 Sept, 9.30-10.30)
Responsibility and cost sharing - where are we now? This session will include a progress report from Rosemary Radcliffe, chair of the independent committee that will be advising the Government on establishing new arrangements in England, and a discussion of what this might mean for practising vets. (Sat 25 Sept, 16.00-17.00)
In addition there will be contentious issue debates on the role of vets in promoting farm animal welfare, the practical difficulties of current dangerous dogs legislation, and the role of vets as experts witnesses in cases of abuse or neglect.
Under the theme of 'public good' there will be a session looking at the role of vets in international development 'Improving the livelihoods of farmers in resource-poor countries', and a session on the zoonotic infections that impact on public health, such as E. Coli and Chlamydia, and what organisations like open farms can do to minimise the risks.
Professor Bill Reilly, President of the BVA, said: "Vets and the public good has been the theme of my presidential term because I believe that the role of vets in all aspects of society should receive more attention.
"Our Congress programme combines the world-renowned expertise of Scotland's academic and research institutes with significant topical issues of debate to capture the widest possible definition of the veterinary contribution to society."
For more information on BVA Congress 2010 (including the full agenda and online registration) visit the BVA website www.bva.co.uk/congress
The referral centre has invested in a new heart and lung machine, and an oxygen cage, and is expected to take its first patients in the autumn.
The service will be established and led by head of cardiac surgery Poppy Bristow (pictured right) and head of cardiology Anne Kurosawa, who have already performed this kind of surgery on more than 100 dogs to date.
DWR is also setting up its own blood transfusion service to collect blood from staff and clients’ pets to support the service.
The blood collected will also be used to support the practice’s emergency and critical care service and its planned dialysis programme.
Poppy said: “There are hardly any other centres in the world offering this type of surgery, especially with this level of expertise that comes from the collective team we have gathered at DWR.
“Mitral valve disease is the most common heart condition in dogs and sadly, many dogs die every year as there are very few options for treatment. To be able to offer surgery to more dogs and their owners is really exciting.
“DWR is the perfect environment for this pioneering programme, due to the state-of-the-art equipment and depth of expertise on hand to support this life-saving initiative.”
Rob Foale, clinical director at Dick White Referrals, added: “It’s a hugely significant step for us to be launching this service, drawing on Poppy’s expertise in this field.
“We’re also starting our own blood transfusion service to complement the launch, as the pandemic has led to a huge drop in pet blood donations.
“Any excess blood we collect will be donated to the national Pet Blood Bank charity, which supplies blood to veterinary practices across the UK and does a fantastic job.”
For more information, visit www.dickwhitereferrals.com.
The survey polled 671 veterinary surgeons in May and June 2017.
92% of those who are now in non-clinical roles had worked in clinical practice in the past. 73% had previously worked in mixed practice, 49% in companion animal practice, 33% in production animal practice and 8% in equine practice.
32% are now in academia, whilst 21% have moved to work in commerce and industry.
Mostly, veterinary surgeons gave positive reasons for moving to non-clinical work: 43% said they were looking for a new challenge and 33% said they were looking for a different type of work.
Others were looking to improve their work-life balance: 24% said they wanted a role with no out-of-hours work, 14% said they wanted more flexible working hours and 10% said clinical work was incompatible with family or outside commitments.
21% cited difficulty in progressing with their clinical career as a reason for moving whilst 19% said they were looking for less stress at work.
There were some differences between men and women in the timing of their career change and the reasons behind it. Women tended to leave clinical practice earlier in their career; an average of 6.5 years after they qualified compared to 8 years for men.
Reasons related to working hours and flexibility were more prominent motivations for women to move from clinical practice (54% of female vets compared to 31% of male vets). On the other hand, male vets were more likely than female vets to cite reasons related to a desire to do a different type of work (44% of male vets compared to 24% of female vets).
BVA Senior Vice President, Gudrun Ravetz said: "These figures show that there is a sizeable percentage of practising vets who are making the move into non-clinical roles and that there are a variety of reasons behind their decision. There is a huge diversity of career paths open to vets and it’s important both for those who are already in practice and for those considering a veterinary career to be aware of all the options available.
"I have had a portfolio career myself that involved clinical practice in all different business models including charity practice and industry and I know that the most important thing is for vets to feel fulfilled in their chosen roles and understand that there is a wide range of opportunity available to them.
"However, we also know that practices are seriously worried about being able to recruit and retain staff. Looking at the reasons for leaving – including a desire for more flexibility, a better work/life balance, and concerns about stress – this has to be a wake-up call to all employers to think about whether we can do things differently to support our colleagues.
"BVA has a role to play too and many of the Vet Futures actions are designed to address these issues, including the workforce study commissioned by BVA, the development of a careers hub, and our support for the Mind Matters Initiative led by RCVS, amongst others. These are issues that the profession must tackle together."
YORKTEST Veterinary Services has announced a change of name to Avacta Animal Health Ltd., following its acquisition by Avacta Group Plc.
The allergy testing and customer support that is synonymous with YORKTEST Veterinary Services will now appear under the brand name of SENSITEST® - the complete allergy service.
Janice Hogg, MD Avacta Animal Health said: "It is an exciting time for us at present and the change of name to Avacta Animal Health signifies this forward progression. Our extensive and high quality allergy portfolio is now branded "SENSITEST®. Previously this was only used in Europe but it will now be our global branding for the complete allergy service offered by Avacta Animal Health. "
For more information on Avacta Animal Health and SENSITEST® telephone 0800 8494 550 or visit website at http://www.animal-allergy.co.uk/.
MsRCVS Sean Cleary and Richard Thomas, and accountant Jane Platt have opened their first practice, Burford Lane Vets in Cheshire, and now plan to open 10 more practices over the next five years, two in Spring 2022
Burford Lane Vets is headed up by Pieter De Villiers MRCVS, who has become an equity owner, supported by a team of nine vets, nurses and receptionists.
Sean said: “Our vets benefit from our many years of clinical, financial, human resources and procurement experience and have the opportunity to add the finishing touches to a state-of-the-art practice, where no expense has been spared on the fit out and equipment.
"Everything from finding a property, negotiating the lease, fitting out the practice and health and safety is taken care of.
"It means our equity partners can enjoy being fantastic vets and reap the financial rewards that brings, and we are here to support the practice and take care of all the administration, procurement, marketing and everything else that goes into running a successful business."
Sean added: “We have benefited from the shift in the industry that saw veterinary groups acquired by large corporate businesses.
"However, this has inadvertently made it difficult for the next generation of vets to follow the traditional route of buying into a practice as they progress from a junior role to partner, as corporate interest has pushed the values of practices to unaffordable levels for most vets.
"We want to bridge that gap and give a leg up to vets who want to be masters of their own destinies, without the difficulty of starting from scratch or having to find a huge initial investment.”
Sean says he thinks there are a great many vets who would like to launch their own practice.
However, starting from scratch is fraught with risk, expense, and complexity.
Sean added: “Our innovative model helps great vets set up in business as leaders of their own practice and our unique offering is already attracting interest from high-calibre individuals.
"We would encourage any colleagues out there who feel they would like to join us in our new venture to get in touch via our website.”
Sean concluded: “The business acumen we have built up over our many years of working in the industry enables us to provide practical support, mentorship and guidance for vets through every step of the process, and that’s something we’re passionate about.
"The directors will be working across all practices to provide support whenever it’s needed. We are in it for the long haul, not just the initial set up stage, and we will become a part of every practice that opens.
“We take a real pride in being the solution to fix the broken practice ownership model and North Star Vets will empower ambitious vets to enjoy a better and more successful future, which in turn will translate into the standard of care our clients enjoy.”
Bayer Animal Health has launched Renalzin®, a feed additive for the management of Chronic Renal Disease (CRD), the leading cause of morbidity and mortality, especially in older cats1.
One-third of all cats over 15 years of age have CRD2, but the disease often remains undetected until the cat suddenly falls ill, by which stage 85% of kidney function may have already been lost3. The clinical signs are often subtle and non-specific, and diagnosis is complicated by the fact that changes in laboratory values occur relatively late in the disease.
Dr. Dennis Chew, specialist in veterinary urology and nephrology at the Ohio State University, said: "Most veterinary surgeons understand that CRD affects many cats, especially as they age, and is a leading cause of death. CRD is difficult to identify in early stages - early intervention with treatment can prevent progression of CRD to those with more serious kidney deficits. Restriction of dietary phosphorus intake is known to be a pivotal beneficial step in the stabilisation of CRD. Renalzin is a paste specifically formulated for cats that prevents dietary phosphate absorption across the intestine - a beneficial effect is gained when added to the cat's normal diet or to a veterinary renal diet".
The main ingredient of Renalzin is Bayer-registered Lantharenol® (lanthanum carbonate), a phosphate binder which binds to dietary phosphate within the gastrointestinal tract. According to the company, this renders it indigestible and thereby eases the burden on the already damaged kidneys.
Renalzin contains two additional ingredients - kaolin and vitamin E. Kaolin is a toxin binder which helps to reduce the absorption of toxins from the gastrointestinal tract. Vitamin E is known to reduce free radicals, improving immunity and protecting the integrity of cell membranes.
Bayer says that clinical studies demonstrate that Renalzin significantly increases faecal elimination and decreases urinary excretion of phosphorus 5. The product also decreases phosphate digestibility (absorption) in cats that are on both high and lower phosphate diets6. In addition, studies have shown that Renalzin causes a decrease in serum phosphate levels in cats with standard maintenance diets non-restricted in phosphorus7. Finally, a clinical trial in feline CRD patients revealed that taking Renalzin resulted in improvements in general clinical examination parameters as assessed by their veterinary surgeons over a two month period in cats on a normal diet7.
Renalzin comes in a pump applicator. One pump action provides 1 ml, with 2 ml being the recommended daily dose applied to and/or mixed with the cat's food. Having a neutral taste and being odourless, Renalzin® does not change the flavour of the cat's food and is flexible for clients to use as it can be given once or twice daily depending on the cat's feeding pattern.
References1 Lulich JP, O'Brien TD, Osbourne CA, Polzin DJ. Feline renal failure: questions, answers, questions. Cd Cont Ed Pract Vet 1992, 14(2): 127 - 151.2 Polzin DJ, Osbourne CA, Adams LG, Lulich JP. Medical management of feline chronic renal failure. In, Bonagura JD, Kirk RW (eds). Current Veterinarian Therapy X1. Philadelphia, PA, Saunders, 1992: 848-853.3 Grauer GF. Early detection of renal damage and disease in dogs and cats. Vet Clin Small Animal 2005, 35: 581-596.4 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lanthanum_carbonate.5 Schmidt B et al Bay 78-1887, J Vet Pharmacol Therap 2006, 29 (Suppl 1): 206-2076 Schmidt B, Spiecker-Hauser U, Gropp J. Effecrt of Lantharenol® on apparent phosphorus absorption from a conventional feline maintenance diet and a renal diet for cats. Proc Soc Nutr Physiol (2008) 17, in press.7 Data submitted for publication.