Starting in the New Year, the benefits of vaccination will be communicated to both farmers and pet owners, initially focussing on farm use.
The aims of the campaign are to raise awareness of how and why vaccines work and the range of diseases they protect against, to review and improve how vaccines are stored and administered, and to encourage better uptake of existing vaccines.
Further information and tips on storing and using vaccines correctly will be shared, to help ensure that vaccines used will be effective.
NOAH says that research has shown that:
Dawn Howard, NOAH’s Chief Executive said: “It is encouraging that vaccination of the UK’s calves and sheep against livestock diseases has risen to one of the highest levels in seven years1. This increase is encouraging, however still more needs to be done in relation to uptake, storage and usage. We are asking the vet profession to support the #VaccinesWork campaign by spreading the messages with their clients and engaging on social media."
"We will be providing information for farmers e.g. if vaccines are not stored correctly, it will impact on their potency, meaning they could be less effective – not only will there be the potential for the vaccine to fail to protect animals against disease but also farmers may have wasted their efforts – and may be deterred from vaccinating again."
Whilst correct use by farmers is the initial focus, the campaign will include pets. Dawn said: "The topic of vaccine hesitancy is becoming increasingly important. Recognised by the WHO as one of the top 10 global health threats for people in 2019, this phenomenon is translating to the veterinary sector as well, especially in companion animals. The PDSA reports an ‘alarming’ drop in pet vaccinations: the proportion of pet dogs, cats and rabbits receiving a primary course when young has fallen by 18% over the past 3 years, down to 66%3.”
"This is bad news for the health and welfare of the nation’s pets, who are increasingly at risk of disease, and we need to work to address this."
References
https://ahdb.org.uk/knowledge-library/use-of-vaccines-in-cattle-and-sheep-2018-sales-update
https://www.noah.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/NOAH-Vision-Paper-8pp-A4-Sep-19-vf.pdf
https://www.pdsa.org.uk/media/7420/2019-paw-report_downloadable.pdf
Veterinary training provider Improve International has opened training facilities at its new European head office, near Swindon.
The company says its relocation to Alexandra House Conference Centre is a strategic move, allowing it to offer residential courses, new programmes and extended courses, as it challenges the industry to re-think its approach to Continuous Professional Development (CPD) and postgraduate qualifications.
Nick Fowler, General Manager of Improve International said: "As a training company founded by vets for vets, we want to harness the passion and experience which can be found throughout the profession and nurture a desire for lifelong learning.
"Training shouldn't become a CPD 'tickbox' that's cumbersome to fit around practice commitments. That's why we have moved towards a far more flexible modular programme, where we can design a personal development plan around an individual's career aspirations - whether they are vets in general practice, vets with special interests, a veterinary nurse, or a practice manager.
"Having the very best facilities in which to train is integral to this plan, so having outgrown our centre in Cricklade, we were keen to find new premises which would meet all our needs. Although it's an unusual scenario to move into an established conference and events centre, we felt that the facilities offered by Alexandra House - from the fully serviced training rooms to the uniquely designed practical suite, 5 star bedrooms, acres of grounds, on-site leisure complex and great food - would all enhance the training experience of our delegates."
A separate wing of Alexandra House has been converted into Improve International's office space, training rooms and a 700 square feet state-of-the-art practical facility which the company says will be one of the finest available in Europe.
Improve International will open a second sister centre at Cranage Hall in Cheshire, also part of the Principal Hayley conference group, within the next 12-months.
Information about courses and facilities is available at www.improvecpd.com
Liverpool based online CPD provider, The Webinar Vet reports that more than 350 veterinary surgeons from over 30 countries registered for its first virtual Veterinary Congress held earlier this month.
The one day congress consisted of six streams with top speakers from the UK, Australia and the USA covering radiology of the chest, cardiology, endocrinology, feline internal medicine, practice management and dermatology, totalling 18 hours of CPD.All six streams can still be accessed by delegates after the congress.
Anthony Chadwick MRCVS, founder of The Webinar Vet said: "Delegates were able to watch two streams on the day and then the other lectures at their leisure. And those who were unable to attend on the day, they can still register to access the congress.
"I was so pleased with the way the congress went. We had internationally renowned speakers being beamed into our homes without us having to go out in the cold wet weather to drive somewhere. Many of the early bird delegates also enjoyed the Fairtrade goodies we sent them in the post to enjoy during the coffee breaks."
Joe Hollins MA VetMB MRCVS, senior veterinary officer on the Island of St Helena has been based there since 2009, and believes that the Webinar Vet CPD has been a lifeline. He sent this message to the team: "Many congratulations to you and your team for putting together what must be deemed an historic event, the first ever virtual international veterinary congress. It's no mean feat. Your masterly control of proceedings, your cool, calm response to small technical glitches, the background coordination of proceedings by your staff; all this combined to create a useful, instructive, purposeful day.
"The fact that you manage to attract world class speakers says it all. My isolation in St Helena from 2009 initially presented me with major concerns regarding my CPD commitment, but The Webinar Vet has resolved any issues - and some. In fact my access to CPD has been greatly enhanced, and whether I was in the UK or not, I would encourage anyone involved in the profession to enrol."
Veterinary surgeons can buy recordings of the event at www.theinternationalwebinarvet.com
Ceva Animal Health has rebranded its nutraceutical supplements for cats and dogs under its Logic brand.
The new Logic range, which previously included the company's dental products, now includes Logic Diar-Stop (previously known as Diarsanyl Plus) for digestive health, Logic Flexivet, a joint supplement and Logic Senilife, a nutraceutical which Ceva says has been shown to manage the signs of brain ageing.
The range is available in consumer-friendly packaging and a merchandising unit is available to showcase the products in practice.
Claire Russell, consumer product manager at Ceva Animal Health said: "The new Logic range provides veterinary practices with an extensive portfolio of respected veterinary strength supplements and dental products, with more exciting and innovative products to come in the pipeline."
For further information on the Logic range, visit www.logicforpets.co.uk, contact your local Ceva Animal Health territory manager or call Ceva's customer support team on 01494 781510.
Ceva Animal Health has announced the winners of its 2014 Animal Welfare Awards. The awards recognise volunteers, charity workers and veterinary professionals who have gone the extra mile in improving animal welfare around the world. Winners were decided by a panel of industry professionals, including Christopher Laurence MBE BVSc and Claire Bessant of International Cat Care.
The winners of the 2014 Ceva Animal Welfare Awards were as follows:Christopher Laurence Vet of the Year AwardMarc Abraham, veterinary surgeon and founder of Pup Aid, for his tireless campaigning about puppy farming. He recently gathered more than the 100,000 names required to trigger a parliamentary debate about puppy farming in a record breaking six months.
Volunteer of the Year Welfare AwardJohanna Beumer from Whittingham Kennels, Essex, for dedicating the last 50 years of her life to finding loving homes for retired racing greyhounds. Joanna is one of the Retired Greyhound Trust's longest-serving volunteers.
Farm Animal Welfare AwardMolly McKay from Norfolk Farm Vets Ltd, Norfolk, for her tireless work to ensure the health and wellbeing of her farm animal patients.
Charity Professional of the YearLuke Gamble MRCVS from the Worldwide Veterinary Service, for raising awareness about animal welfare and in particular his recent work in launching Mission Rabies, a worldwide campaign to highlight this issue and bring about control.
Charity Team of the YearHope Rescue, a small charity dedicated to rescuing stray and abandoned dogs. Last year it successfully rehomed 143 dogs and on top of that placed a further 384 dogs with reputable rescues.
Welfare Nurse of the Year AwardJodie Foster from Haygate Veterinary Centre, Muxton, for her work helping owners whose pets have behavioural problems, and organising blood drives for the Pet Blood bank.
International Cat Care Welfare AwardAgnes Dufau from Plataforma Gatera for her work to ensure the welfare of cats in Spain.
Jodie Foster said: "I didn't even know I had been nominated until very recently so I'm still in shock! I'm loving every minute of the night though. Awards like these really help raise awareness of the work veterinary nurses and other veterinary professionals play in improving animal welfare."
Upon receiving their award, Vanessa Waddon of Hope Rescue, winners of the Charity Team of the Year Award, said: "We are so proud to have been recognised for all the hard work that our volunteers and one paid member of staff do. We are a very small charity, and it is amazing to have been picked as winners over hundreds of other larger charities, all deserving of awards for the fantastic work they do in animal welfare. Even though we are a small charity, we do try to make a big impact and it is wonderful that Ceva are here in recognition of the important work that smaller charities, like Hope Rescue, do."
Ceva Managing Director, Alan Doyle said: "The judging panel were overwhelmed by the quality of the entries we received this year. It is truly wonderful to read so many stories about honourable people dedicating their time to improve the welfare of animals both in the UK and internationally. The judges had a tough time whittling down the short list as there were so many well-deserved entries; however we are pleased with the final result."
Claire Bessant CEO of International Cat Care adds: "I began my charity career more than 20 years ago and I only wish awards like these one had existed then as the wonderful work that these people do needs celebrating. Ceva's Animal Welfare Awards provide a real insight into the lengths people are prepared go to improve animal welfare. The stories were both tear jerking and inspiring - each and every one deserves to be a winner."
Preoperative fasting to reduce the likelihood of gastroesophageal reflux, regurgitation, emesis and aspiration of gastric contents during anaesthesia is routine, but research on the topic is currently thin on the ground.
The survey aims to obtain information on current preoperative fasting recommendations and protocols in dogs and cats which will enable the expansion of knowledge on common practice. Kat (pictured right) said: "It will also allow me to compare current practice to the literature to examine the use of evidence-based practice. It may also highlight areas requiring improvement in small animal practice to ensure patient health and welfare."
The anonymous questionnaire is aimed at a number of veterinary staff including registered veterinary surgeons, nurses, students, animal care assistants, veterinary care assistants and reception/administration staff, as all are involved in giving advice and instructions to clients on this topic.
Kat plans to share significant findings with the profession in due course.
To take part in the survey, visit: https://harper-adams.onlinesurveys.ac.uk/preoperative-fasting-duration-questionnaire
The survey will close on Friday 14th August 2020 at 5:00pm.
Please share this story with colleagues!
The new RUMA Companion Animal and Equine Group will initially focus on encouraging efforts to promote responsible antibiotic use.
Steve Howard, head of clinical services at the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals and secretary general of the new group, said: "RUMA has spearheaded successful efforts to steward antibiotic use in farmed animals over the past five years, and we would like to see whether its principles can augment the considerable progress that’s already been made in the companion animal and equine sectors.
"The most notable of RUMA’s initiatives is the Targets Task Force, which has seen leading vets and farmers from each species working together with industry groups to develop meaningful goals for reducing, refining or replacing antibiotic use.
"Through establishing such proactive approaches towards antibiotic stewardship in companion animals and equines, we hope to optimise their health and welfare – as well as that of humans and the environment."
RUMA says that although total antibiotic sales are significantly lower for companion animals compared with the farming sector, even relatively low use can result in resistance to key medicines if good stewardship principles are not applied.
The collaboration will cover use of medicines in dogs, cats, rabbits, small mammals, exotic animals kept as pets, and equids. The aim is for the UK to lead the way in these sectors through evidence-based and measurable activities that will promote and enhance stewardship.
Gwyn Jones, chair of the new group (pictured right), said: "As a collaborative group we need to establish evidence-based protocols for reducing, replacing or refining antibiotic use in companion animals, to further help preserve and prolong the use of these vital tools for human and animal health.
“Efforts will be focused towards identifiable goals so that progress can be monitored and demonstrated. But we will also promote practical, practice-level resources, guidance and measures aimed at driving positive behaviour changes and protecting patients and practitioners alike."
According to the NFU, last year farm animals worth an estimated £2.4 million pounds were severely injured or killed by dog attacks last year.
Obtaining forensic samples after an attack can be difficult because so often they happen in remote places and rural police can't always attend quickly enough to get a sample.
Dr. Nick Dawnay from Liverpool John Moores University therefore developed Early Evidence Kits to enable samples to be collected by vets, famers and police from the crime scene immediately.
Following a successful proof of concept in Wales, the research team is now trialling the kits in ten regions of England and Wales, with support from IVC Evidensia farm practices.
Over the next twelve months the trial will refine best practices for collecting forensic samples from livestock attack scenes.
David Martin, Group Head of Animal Welfare at IVC Evidensia said: “This project marks an exciting step forward in collecting and analysing canine DNA from livestock.
"It offers police and farmers a means to hold irresponsible dog owners culpable for the damage and losses caused by their pets.”
“As a profession we can support this research by ensuring samples are taken from as many cases within the relevant force areas as possible so that the team at John Moores gets sufficient material to be able to complete this project as soon as possible.
"All IVC Evidensia farm practices in the participating regions are being encouraged to use the kits and we want to ensure all farm practices in those regions know about this important project.”
It is hoped new legislation for England and Wales will be brought in to give police officers the power to take a DNA sample from a suspected dog to compare to canine DNA left at an attack scene.
Dave Allen, North Wales Police and NPCC Livestock Offence Working Group Secretary said: “These kits are an exciting development and can be utilised for an issue that causes major concern to our UK rural communities”.
Veterinary practices are now being encouraged help raise awareness of the project, particularly to encourage farmers to take part and use the kits to collect evidence in the following regions:
https://www.ljmu.ac.uk/about-us/news/articles/2024/5/17/forensic-science-to-help-farmers-foil-sheep-attacks
According to Intervet, a study undertaken in Germany last summer has proven the efficacy of Butox SWISH at killing the midges responsible for carrying the bluetongue virus, when applied monthly to cattle. The study showed that even brief contact between a midge and hair from a treated animal killed midges rapidly for up to four weeks post-treatment.
The standard dose, applied in the usual way (on the neck and topline of the animal) delivers full-body coverage of Butox SWISH’s deltamethrin, helped partly by its unique micronised formulation. The product is also highly lipophilic which means it binds onto the natural oil secretions of the coat helping to improve coverage.
The trial used six heifers (each weighing around 400kg) treated with 30ml Butox SWISH (the standard fly dose and method of application). Two un-treated heifers were also studied for comparison.
During the five week period, contact between midges and treated hair caused immediate paralysis, and the midges then died at varying intervals depending on contact time and the number of days post-treatment with Butox SWISH. The trial verified the application of Butox SWISH monthly at the standard dose for cattle.
Trial director, Professor Mehlhorn suggested that producers should be prepared to reduce vector contact by removing their breeding habitats and combining this with the use of a knock-down treatment like Butox SWISH, which is the only product of its type which has proven efficacy against midges. Used in conjunction with vaccination, these measures may not stop the disease entering the herd, but will help reduce the spread of disease.
Following the announcement last month of the establishment of a Working Party to review Extra-Mural Studies (EMS) in the undergraduate veterinary degree, the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons is inviting comment from all those involved with organising, providing and receiving EMS.
Opinions are not being sought in response to a set of formal questions, but respondents may like to consider the strengths and weaknesses in the system; problems and possible solutions; and what should be retained and what could change.
Written comments should be sent to Freda Andrews, Head of Education at the RCVS, on education@rcvs.org.uk by 16 February 2009.
This call for input is the first of several phases of activity that will lead to the delivery of a report from the Working Party to the RCVS Education Policy and Specialisation Committee in October 2009. Following this initial information-gathering stage, some individuals and organisations will be invited to deliver their views in person to the Working Party during April.
Draft recommendations will then be formatted for any change to the current system, which requires that veterinary students undertake pre-clinical and clinical work experience placements for at least 38 weeks during their degree course. A further consultation process may follow, depending on the nature of the recommendations, before the paper is finalised.
Dr Barry Johnson, RCVS Council member and Chairman of the EMS Working Party said: "It is over 10 years since the RCVS undertook a major review of EMS, although the requirements and guidelines were revised and updated in 2005 to introduce more flexibility for universities to meet the individual learning needs of their students.
"In recent years, there have been significant changes in the UK higher education system, the veterinary curriculum and the organisation of veterinary schools, and the time is now right for a more substantial review."
For the first time BSAVA is running a Case Report Competition to be held at the annual Scottish BSAVA Congress (26-28th August 2011 at the Edinburgh Conference Centre).
Veterinary surgeons, nurses and students are invited to submit abstracts of no more than 400 words detailing a case and interesting discussion points.
Cases will then be selected for a short presentation at the congress
Successful selection will entitle the presenter to free congress registration on that day.
At the end of the session, a BSAVA manual of the winner's choice will be awarded to the case report deemed favourite by the audience.
Abstracts should be submitted via email by the 15 June 2011 and notification of acceptance will be given by the 30 June 2011.
Please send any enquires or submissions to Gerard McLauchlan (g.mclauchlan.1@research.gla.ac.uk) or Yvonne McGrotty (yvonne.mcgrotty@vets-now.com).
The Royal Veterinary College and the Animal Health Trust are trying to recruit 3000 horse and pony owners to take part in 'CARE about laminitis', a web-based research project that aims to reduce the threat caused by laminitis.
The four-year study, which is being funded by World Horse Welfare, is being conducted by PhD student, Danica (Dee) Pollard, based at the AHT. The main aims of the study are to:
Currently the veterinary-reported frequency of laminitis in Britain, estimated between 2009 and 2011, shows that active episodes of veterinary-diagnosed laminitis occurred in nearly 1 in 200 horses/ponies registered with veterinary practices, and accounted for nearly 1 in 200 equine visits. Dee said: "However an overall lack of studies into the frequency of laminitis leaves little to compare these estimates with."
If you'd like to take part in the study, or invite clients to do so, visit: www.careaboutlaminitis.org.uk or email danica.pollard@aht.org.uk.
Swindon-based Eastcott Veterinary Referrals is looking for a new resident to join its dentistry team.
Eastcott’s dentistry department is led by Andrew Perry, an EBVS European Veterinary Specialist in Dentistry. He's supported by Peter Southerden, AVDC Founding Fellow in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery – one of only 14 founding fellows in the world and the only one practicing in Europe.
The residency programme will offer an in-depth knowledge in veterinary dentistry through a mix of clinical and non-clinical work.
It will also provide an opportunity to work alongside world class surgeons responsible for some of the most advanced dental surgical procedures of today.
The clinical aspect of the role will require the candidate to manage cases and perform all forms of dental and oral surgical procedures and client communication, with guidance from senior staff.
The role will also involve preparation of scientific articles for publication and will help develop the candidate's teaching and presenting skills and externships in diagnostic imaging, surgery and anaesthesia.
Andrew said: “The team at Eastcott are proud to be a part of developing future specialists in a discipline that is growing rapidly and has such an impact on patient welfare.
“Our multidisciplinary approach to management of dental, oral and maxillofacial pathologies means that the successful candidate will have the benefit of exposure to a very diverse, and at times cutting edge, caseload.
“The residency programme is well-established at Eastcott. The dentistry, oral and maxillofacial team, the hospital directors and the Linnaeus central support team are committed to individual development and growth and work hard to provide an environment and support to allow our residents to flourish.”
For more information on this role, visit www.eastcottreferrals.co.uk or email andrew.perry@eastcottvets.co.uk before July 31.
Rowe Referrals, part of IVC Evidensia Referrals, was one of the very first practices to have an onsite MRI when it installed a 1.5T model five years ago. Now, thanks to investment from IVC Evidensia - of which it is a part - Rowe has been able to replace the ageing model with a new 3.0T machine, which will enable clinicians to diagnose and implement treatment plans quicker.
Referrals Manager at Rowe Referrals, Meg Hayman, said: "The difference between the two machines in amazing. The 1.5T produced very detailed scans but the 3.0T is incredible! It gives our clinicians the ability to perform more complex investigations with far greater clarity.
The practice says benefits will be seen across all disciplines, including neurology, internal medicine, ophthalmology, dentistry, orthopaedics and soft tissue.
Ian Jennings BSc BVSc CertVDI MRCVS RCVS Advanced Practitioner in Diagnostic Imaging said: "The new 3.0T MRI scanner allows us a much more detailed view of our patients, and has been especially useful for detection of smaller lesions in our neurological and orthopaedic cases. Specialised sequences can also be performed in less time, allowing us a greater ability to help more patients."
At 9.00am on Thursday and 1.45pm on Friday, Dr Sam Taylor, Feline Specialist and academy lead at the International Society of Feline Medicine (ISFM), will present ‘feline pawsative’, a talk about about cat inappetence and the remedy offered by Mirataz.
At 11.20am on Thursday and 9.00am on Friday, Matt Gurney, clinical director at Anderson Moores will be sharing the latest developments in sedation in dogs including Zenalpha.
At 12.30pm on Thursday and 12.35pm on Friday, Andrew Waller (pictured right), chief scientific officer at Intervacc AB, will be discussing how to rein in the impact of strangles using Dechra’s new protein-based vaccine, Strangvac.
The CPD sessions are first come, first served, and Dechra says it expects the presentations to be well-attended, so it could be worth getting there a little early, although probably no need to pitch a tent outside the night before.
There are 10 candidates standing this year and vets can vote for up to three of them until 5pm on Friday 21st April 2023:
The biographies and statements for each candidate are available at www.rcvs.org.uk/vetvote23 where each candidate has also answered two questions of their choice submitted by members of the profession.
The three candidates who receive the most votes will take up their four-year terms on RCVS Council at the RCVS Annual General Meeting on Friday 7th July 2023.
Any veterinary surgeons who have not received their voting email should contact CES directly on support@cesvotes.com stating which election they intend to vote in.
Over 100 students from Nottingham Vet Society will attempt the 3 Peaks Challenge by climbing Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon in under 24 hours on 10 March.
The funds raised will be split between VBF, the charity that supports veterinary professionals, and Medical Detection Dogs.
Online donations can be made at http://goo.gl/IkodW.
Lydia Brown, VBF President, said: "We are so grateful to the students involved who organized this off their own backs even though they don't have much free time. It augurs well for the future of the profession that they want to support their colleagues. I do hope they all make it back to Nottingham safely and I look forward to seeing the pictures on facebook.com/VetlifeVBF! "
Tom McKay, one of the students who organized the challenge, said: "We have really enjoyed the training and are reasonably optimistic we will make it back for our Easter placements!"
Novartis Animal Health has announced the results of a survey of dairy and beef farmers which found that 39% of those who found Bovine Viral Diarrhoea (BVD) present in their herd did not then go on to test for persistently infected (PI) animals.
Any calf born from a BVD persistently-infected cow will be born Persistently Infected with the virus and cannot be cured. As a result, future vaccination of this animal against the virus is rendered ineffective and the affected animal will be a source of the virus, spreading infection within the herd.
With young cattle being the source of PI's and reservoirs of infection within a herd, failure to test, identify and then deal with PI livestock represents the most significant problem facing the industry when trying to eradicate BVD.
Professor Joe Brownlie from the Royal Veterinary College and current chairman of the BVD Scientific and Technical Working Group, said: "Of the 61% of farmers that did do follow up tests for PI's once BVD had been detected in their herd, one third found one or more PI's within the stock holding.
"However, one third of farmers who identified having active BVD infection in their herd then failed to go on and carry out individual animal testing; of those that did, nearly half discovered one or more individual PI's within their herd".
"It just shows that the disease can be hidden, and farmers could be in the dangerous position of potentially missing PI animals that are in their herd; PI's that can continue to spread the BVD virus amongst other cattle and pass on their PI status to any calves they produce. It is hugely important to be thorough and consistent in your testing as part of an agreed herd health plan"
The survey also indicated that action needs to be taken to educate farmers about what to do once BVD and, most significantly, PI's are discovered amongst a herd.
Professor Brownlie said: "There is much evidence from this survey to encourage the industry in how it is tackling this disease, however there is still a great need for clear direction. The survey indicated that 20% of farmers wrongly believe that PI animal's will eventually become non-infective and that 25 % believe that calves born of PI cows will not always have PI calves themselves.
"All of these perceptions are incorrect and can lead to reservoirs of the disease being allowed to remain not only within individual herds, but geographical regions as well; seriously hindering the eradication of the virus in England and Wales".
With nearly half of farmers saying that they talked to vets - their main source of information about BVD - only once or less a year, Professor Brownlie said it is unsurprising that many farmers did not show a greater understanding of BVD beyond biological side effects present in the infected cattle: "About 50% of farmers surveyed were unsure as to what types of tests need to be carried out to detect the infection in their livestock and 32% of respondents were unaware that correct vaccination of livestock against BVD can protect both the cow and unborn calf".
Novartis says that while BVD is still regarded by farmers as one of the top bovine diseases, other health issues such as mastitis and tuberculosis are given much greater attention. This lack of focus on BVD is exacerbated by the lack of sound information of the financial implications of the infection on their herd.
Professor Brownlie said: "The side effects of BVD appear to be overlooked in financial terms, but the infection can severely hinder a herd's financial productivity due to poor health, reduced milk yield and loss of reproductive efficiency.
Caroline Dawson from Novartis Animal Health said:"Perhaps by aiding understanding of the financial cost of the virus, we can encourage farmers to take more proactive steps to combat BVD. As such, I am pleased to announce that that the FAB panel has initiated a follow on project to carry out detailed research with regards to the financial impact of BVD on farms and is due to report findings in the new year".
(Photograph shows, left to right, James Russell MRCVS (McMurtry & Harding), Caroline Dawson (Novartis Animal Health), Tony Brooks (Brighthams Farm), Professor Joe Brownlie(RCVS)
All existing BEVA members will have their membership automatically extended until 30 June 2020. The association is also inviting vets and vet nurses who are not already BEVA members to join as online members free of charge until 30 June 2020.
BEVA President Tim Mair said: “In this extraordinary time of global crisis our profession, as with many industries, is under immense pressure. By offering free membership we are giving equine vets easy access to a wealth of supportive resources and online CPD to help them through these dark times.”
BEVA membership includes:
The association is also looking at other ways to support the profession, which has included making all BEVA Congress 2019 webinars available to members via the BEVA online learning platform.
To sign up from Monday 30 March 2020 visit: https://www.beva.org.uk/Join-BEVA
The one-hour webinar, titled 'Calm in the Corona' takes place between 11am and 12 noon on Saturday 25 April and is being supported by the RCVS Mind Matters initiative.
The session will look at some of the common responses to uncertainty during the pandemic, with an emphasis on how to recognise and nurture more adaptive or helpful responses that do not lead to heightened anxiety or distress.
Topics will include creating routines, setting boundaries and how to seek social support despite quarantine measures.
Building on the interactive approach from previous VetKind conferences, student veterinary nurses and veterinary students will be invited to share their coronavirus experiences, ideas and successes with their colleagues.
Jenny Moffett, Managing Director of SkillsTree and VetKind facilitator said: "Although we’re all talking about social distancing right now, it’s more accurate to think of it as physical distancing. Social support is more important than ever, and webinars can be a really effective way to connect, and work together on a common challenge.
"We know that many students may be facing heightened stress and anxiety right now as they worry about the impact the pandemic may have on their own and their family’s health, their education, their finances, their housing and so on. We hope that this webinar will provide some effective coping strategies and an opportunity to share fears and worries and find constructive solutions to them."
Those that wish to take part in the webinar should email avsvetkind@gmail.com. An automatic reply with the link to participate in the webinar will then be emailed back.
Animal Friends Insurance (AFI), a not-for-profit pet insurance business, has a High Court injunction which paves the way for its customers to make a smooth transition from the company's previous underwriters, Equine and Livestock Insurance Company (E&L), to Red Sands Insurance Company (Europe) Limited.
Equine and Livestock terminated their underwriting agreement with AFI in February 2008, citing unprofitablility of the book for them as the reason.
Negotiations over the transfer of the book to Red Sands Insurance Company (Europe) Limited foundered when E&L demanded £750,000 from AFI for the transfer and for their agreement not to solicit AFI customers.
Following legal advice AFI wrote to its customers offering to renew policies with Red Sands. This spawned letters to AFI customers from E&L which caused great confusion amongst customers as to what was happening with their insurance. The letters also offered first a 10% then a 20% discount to tempt AFI customers to renew with E&L and not to stay with AFI.
AFI therefore applied for an emergency injunction to prevent E&L making further contact with AFI customers (except in agreed situations, notably claims), to stop the escalating confusion and also to require them to acknowledge renewals advised to them by AFI into Red Sands and not to take further payments on those insurances. The application was successful.
Elaine Fairfax, Managing Director and Founder of AFI said: "I am delighted at the Court ruling. It has resolved the terrible confusion that followed E&L's letters to our customers. Unfortunately we know that some customers said they would renew with E&L thinking they were staying with us! Now we can simply renew our customers' policies with our new underwriters as we had originally intended to do at no inconvenience to them as they need do nothing if they want to stay with Animal Friends. They will enjoy exactly the same policy terms and premiums as before and our underwriters will even take on existing ongoing conditions where a policyholder has lifetime cover."
She added: "Although this has been a horrible experience we are delighted to have new underwriters as they have given us authority to handle everything in-house. For vets this means that Animal Friends will now be handling claims at our Wiltshire H.Q. We have a bespoke pet claims software systems and veterinary nurse staff to give the best possible service. We have the facility to pay claims swiftly direct into a customer's bank account or direct to a vet. It is also exciting that we shall be able to draw on Hollard's* international pet insurance experience to introduce some unique new products and ideas into the UK pet insurance market in the near future."
The Association of Private Pet Cemeteries & Crematoria (APPCC) has launched a new leaflet for bereaved pet owners, which will be distributed to veterinary practices.
Kevin Spurgeon, Director of the APPCC said: "The feelings of grief and loss that pet owners go through after the death of their pet is often not fully appreciated. The idea of the leaflet is to help owners understand and deal with the emotions they are experiencing more. If the pet is part of a family then several people along with other pets may be affected - it may even be the first experience of death for some."
The leaflet was written and produced for the APPCC by Jane Matthews, author of Losing a Pet (http://www.smallbooks.co.uk/), and has had support from several experienced pet bereavement counsellors and the nationwide Pet Bereavement Support Service run by SCAS (www.scas.org.uk). It covers a variety of subjects, including:
According to the APPCC, studies have shown that as many as 1 in 4 pet owners take time off of work after the death of their pet with nearly half of all those surveyed having taking annual leave after their loss. Pet crematoriums have also noticed an upturn in the numbers of people taking a hands-on approach by choosing to arrange an individual cremation for their pet directly with the crematorium.
The APPCC plans to distribute the leaflets to its members, pet bereavement counsellors and veterinary surgeries throughout the UK and believes this is a major step forward in both acknowledging pet bereavement and helping those affected by it. The leaflet will also be available to download from the main APPCC website www.appcc.org.uk as well as through many of the members own sites.
Purina has launched a FortiFlora veterinary support pack designed to help veterinary professionals advice owners about their pet's intestinal health and balance.
The support package includes a "Training Toolbox" with Lunch and Learn sessions to help guide veterinary professionals through the introduction of Fortiflora to an owner. It explains the indications, ingredients, benefits and summarises the added value in prescribing to animals with specific health issues. In addition, there are leaflets for owners explaining what probiotics are and how they can help support a pet's intestinal health on a daily basis, as well as some testimonials from owners explaining how Fortiflora has helped their pets. Promotional bunting and posters are designed to raise awareness in the waiting room, and for a short time there is a promotional pillow pack available to allow clients easy access to a short course of FortiFlora.
In a recent survey of pet owners conducted by Purina, 66% of respondents said their dog had suffered with digestive problems and 80% said they would be willing to make a change to their dog's diet to improve their digestion.1
Purina says that providing a supplement such as FortiFlora is also recommended as a nutritional supplement to help with diarrhoea associated with stress, antibiotic therapy, diet change and acute enteritis. The company claims it can also help with situations associated with stress such as moving house, vet visits and shows.
Chris Nickson, Senior Brand Manager at Purina said: "Intestinal upset is a very common problem for dogs as our research highlighted. The aim of this support pack is to help vet practices initiate the conversation with owners to ensure they are aware of the benefits that a nutritional supplement like FortiFlora can offer."
FortiFlora is suitable for use in cats and dogs of all ages. Animals should be fed one sachet of FortiFlora per day sprinkled over the pet's regular food.
For more information or to request a FortiFlora support pack, call Purina on 0800 212 161.
Reference
The RCVS has published a summary of the goings on at its 6 November meeting.
Amongst other things, Council agreed to continue to display postnominals in the Register, undertake a consultation on whether members should be able to use the courtesy title 'doctor' and make amendments to the College's current registration regulations.
In addition,
More information about these decisions can be found in the latest edition of RCVS News, copies of which have been sent to all veterinary surgeons and listed/registered veterinary nurses.
The full papers for the Council meeting can be found on the RCVS website at www.rcvs.org.uk/about-us/rcvs-council/council-meetings
Normally, students would be required to complete a minimum of 38 weeks of EMS throughout their degree programme in order to gain real-life work experience to enhance their university-based studies.
Under the circumstances, however, Council has decided to allow a temporary flexibility around completion of EMS:
RCVS President Niall Connell said: “Extra-Mural Studies (EMS) are an important and valued part of the veterinary programme, and all students are required to complete a total of 38 weeks across the full programme.
“However, the health and safety of students and staff are paramount, and we are aware that a number of restrictions are being put in place at this time to ensure their safety and minimise the risk of Covid-19 transmission.”
These measures will be subject to further review/extension depending upon the prevailing situation with the COVID-19 pandemic. The RCVS will monitor the impact of this through EMS completion data provided by UK veterinary schools.
Regarding final exams and assessment, the College says it may be necessary for UK veterinary schools to consider alternative methods to assess students in certain areas, but that UK veterinary schools should continue to ensure that any alternative assessment methods continue to be robust, valid and reliable, and ensure students have met the RCVS Day One Competences.