The Elekta Infinity linear accelerator is the only one of its kind for pets in England.
CVS says it allowing the centre to offer “cutting edge” image-guided radiation treatments for cancer in cats and dogs – meaning fewer, shorter sessions, fewer side effects and the best possible chance of improved outcomes for the animal.
Delphine Holopherne-Doran, Clinical Director at Bristol Vet Specialists, said: “Our new hospital is now at the forefront of cancer care in animals.
"We have invested in this state-of-the-art technology to bring cancer treatment in pets to the next level.
“Our unique linear accelerator allows us to offer advanced image-guided treatments - for example intensity-modulated or stereotactic radiation therapy.
"The advantage of these treatments is that high dose rates of focused beams are delivered with high precision over a shortened treatment course, with greater safety for the patient’s healthy tissue.
“It has now drawn many tumours into the realm of treatability, it is improving the quality of life for patients, and it is making it easier for owners to manage their pet’s treatment and aftercare.”
Still, the installation of the linear accelerator will probably have cost the same again, and then you've got the running costs.
That's not an inconsiderable cost per patient.
A report published by the Environmental, Food and Rural Affairs committee this week has concluded that The Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 is in need of updating. However, lack of available budget in the current Comprehensive Spending Review period means that further work on a White Paper won't happen till 2011 at the earliest. In particular, the report found consensus within the profession that the disciplinary procedure is in urgent need of updating. However, the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons does not have majority support for its proposals on compulsory practice standards and compulsory continuing professional development. The report crticised the RCVS for not having done enough to provide a clear picture of its proposals for a new statutory framework for the regulation of the profession. However, an RCVS spokesman said: "In fact, we have invested considerable time and resources in the development of proposals, led by a working party that included stakeholders. However, we have been awaiting further input from Defra before taking matters further." Chairman of the Committee the Rt Hon Michael Jack said: "We urge the profession to coalesce round some specific proposals to amend the disciplinary process for veterinary professionals. We believe that a working party should be set up between Defra, the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons and the British Veterinary Association to produce a new Bill for introduction in 2009." Responding to the publication of the report, BVA President Nick Blayney said: "While we will certainly consider EFRACom’s proposal that BVA work with Defra and RCVS to produce a draft bill, the BVA is a voluntary association and our focus is the benefit of our members. Given that we are not even persuaded of the need for a new Act, it is likely that our contribution will be advisory and not financial." Click here for the full report
Veterinary surgeon Noel Fitzpatrick, a pioneer of prosthetic implants, has launched what is being billed as Europe's most advanced neuro-orthopaedic centre for dogs and cats.
Fitzpatrick Referrals' £10m facilities at Eashing, near Godalming, Surrey, have been set up to offer a world-class "centre of excellence" in diagnosis, surgery and rehabilitation.
Facilities at the centre include:
Noel was the first veterinary surgeon to successfully apply a prosthetic limb to a dog where both bone and skin can grow into metal - a technique with far-reaching cross-over potential for human surgery. He believes in "pushing the boundaries" and creating solutions for conditions that may never have previously been treatable, and says the work being done at Eashing also provides valuable experience for medical science as a whole. Examples include cartilage resurfacing, limb-sparing cancer surgery and spinal vertebral fusion.
Professor Gordon Blunn of the Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Institute of Orthopaedics and Musculo-Skeletal Science at University College London said: "Orthopaedic conditions and diseases are common to both human beings and to animals. For example osteoarthritis is debilitating condition seen in humans, cats and dogs. Bone cancer which can lead to loss of life in humans and is usually associated with the peripheral skeleton is also seen in the peripheral skeleton of large dog breeds. Translation of ideas, orthopaedic practice and treatments, from humans to the veterinary field and visa versa has considerable advantages to all animals including dogs, cats and man. Noel Fitzpatrick is pioneering this concept and his work in limb reconstruction for dogs and cats has already had benefits in both veterinary and human orthopaedic practice."
DJ Chris Evans is one satisfied client. His dog, Enzo, a German Shepherd, was "written off" by other vets after becoming paralysed with two herniated discs. Noel fitted Enzo with two bolts to replace the collapsed disc and keep the vertebrae apart. The surgery was followed by extensive physiotherapy and hydrotherapy to enable Enzo to learn to walk again.
Chris said: "Noel lives out his dreams with boundless curiosity, ambition and genius, the product of which is hundreds, soon to be thousands, of fixed pets and happy owners - like me. I have huge respect for his endeavour, his integrity and his compassion and to me he's a superhero-vetman who will leave no stone unturned in his quest to heal, to create and to comfort. He thinks of solutions to medical problems that I'm sure no-one else could even dream of, let alone think of. Actually - I don't think he ever sleeps!"
Pfizer Animal Health, maker of the equine wormers Equest and Equest Pramox, has unveiled www.wormingyourhorse.info, a new website which aims to make it easier for horse owners to understand and follow the most up-to-date principles of sustainable worm control.
Based on the company's Manage, Test, Plan, Dose campaign, Pfizer says the new website is designed to take the confusion out of equine worm control with clear, logical and easy-to-understand guidance and advice.
The four main sections use diagrams and text to explain how and why it's important to manage the worm challenge on the pasture; the role of faecal worm egg counts (FWECs); how history and management play a part in planning the best worm control programme and how to choose and use the right wormer at the right time of year.
There's an interactive and educational parasite page that shows the parasites that can affect the health of your horse. There are click through buttons on parts of the horse's anatomy revealing details about the appearance of each particular parasite, their lifecycle and the symptoms they can cause. In addition there's a section on frequently asked questions which provides no-nonsense answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about worm control.
Paul Blanc, Pfizer's equine brand manager said: "In developing our new website we have listened carefully to what horse owners really want and need to know. The result is a source of plain-speaking, unbiased facts and advice, providing horse owners with the most current thinking on sustainable worm control in a format they can really identify with."
Spanish company Vital Dinamic has announced the launch of SD VET, a new stool designed to reduce the physical stress from prolonged standing whilst operating.
The stool is based on a multi-directional rocking design which gives the surgeon a wide range of movement whilst taking the weight off their legs (see video below).
In addition, the company says that SD VET protects the back from postural problems, helps circulation in the legs and puts the surgeon in a more relaxed posture, thereby helping to improve concentration on the task at hand.
For more information, contact: José de Benito, International Sales Director on +34 661 763 887 or email: jdebenito@vitaldinamic.com
The training will take place in locations across BSAVA’s regional network in the UK, and is open to large, small, and equine veterinary teams.
The sessions will cover the complexity of abuse and the impact of domestic abuse on children, how to recognise abuse/non-accidental injury in animals, how to document information and what to do when dealing with disclosure from a human victim of abuse.
They will also give guidance on setting up a practice protocol and identifying a practice links adviser who will assist those involved in the veterinary team to manage suspected cases of abuse.
Invited guests will include representatives from human and veterinary health, welfare bodies and policy makers.
Vicki Betton, Vice-Chair of The Links Group said: “We’re thrilled to be rolling out our programme of in-person training days with BSAVA.
"Abuse of any vulnerable member of the family, human or animal, is a difficult subject for many to even consider, but with reported cases of domestic abuse reaching an all-time high during the pandemic, its essential that teams are aware of the issue and have a practice protocol in place for if they feel something isn’t quite right with a case.
“We’re looking forward to exploring the most effective ways veterinary teams can recognise and act on suspected cases of non-accidental injury or disclosures of domestic or child abuse.”
The training days are free for BSAVA members and £50 (inc VAT) for non members.
So far, dates have been confirmed for Nottingham on 18th April and Exeter on the 29th June. Others are planned for the Metropolitan, Southern, Wales and North West regions.
To book your place, visit: https://www.bsava.com/education/cpd/regional-cpd
Bayer is highlighting a new study which, the company says, proves that a 'metaphylactic' treatment approach to coccidiosis - when the animal has been infected, but before the disease has had chance to take hold - produces the best long term results1.
The research spanned a two year period where heifer calves on two farms that had previously experienced problems with naturally acquired coccidiosis, were divided into two groups. One group was treated with Baycox and one group remained untreated. The calves were then monitored for two years to gather the long term results following the coccidiosis treatment.
Sharon Cooksey BVSc, MRCVS, Bayer Animal Health Group Product Manager said: "The results demonstrated that treatment with Baycox at the right time significantly reduced the average age to first service by 24 days in comparison with the non-treated control group.
"Other key long term benefits following treatment included positive effects on certain fertility parameters, including overall pregnancy rate, the first service conception rate and average services per conception as well as a significant reduction in oocyst shedding in the treatment group."
Sharon says the take home message of the new research is the paramount importance of getting treatment right at the right time, before coccidiosis develops and causes any long term implications: "The positive impact on heifer development from correct subclinical coccidiosis treatment is clear to see in this research, with the reduction of days to first service alone being a powerful reason for farmers to seek veterinary advice."
Reference
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."
Origin (previously known as Westpoint) has announced that FarmVets SouthWest has joined the group, giving further geographical coverage to its veterinary practice network.
FarmVets SouthWest has practices at Ilminster and North Petherton in Somerset and Honiton in Devon.
Eoghan McAlonan, a director of the practice, said: "We are delighted to be joining Origin. The Origin group delivers the highest standards in veterinary services to UK agriculture, and we will bring our farmer friendly services to further enhance the groups activities".
In turn Origin says it plans to bring the wide benefits of group membership, including lab services, dairy consultancy and paraprofessional services, to further enhance the high level of service the vet team at Farmvets SouthWest provide to producers in Somerset and Devon.
Jon Mouncey, Managing Director of Westpoint Farmvets, said: "Working alongside our other Origin practices in the South West region, we can now offer all livestock producers our advanced services, ensuring their stock receive the very best in veterinary care. Our group offers a unique approach to integrated veterinary services and by applying the latest technology and research we ensure that animal health and welfare is optimised, delivering real value for our clients in a challenging agricultural climate."
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.
In what the company says is a European first, IVC vets will be recognised for the skills they already have, as well as supported to achieve new skills within the GP framework.
The programme is also intended to increase GP's status within the profession, boost confidence, develop ability and provide a clear path for career progression.
Edward Davies BVSc MRCVS, IVC's new Aspirational GP Lead, said: "The plethora of skills a GP vet has is unparalleled when you look at other professions.
“This programme is about recognising the core and expansive knowledge sets we as GP vets possess, not just at an individual level, but an organisational and professional level.”
An initial two cohorts of up to 20-30 vets from across the business will take part over the next 12 months, and the expectation is that it will take around two years for every cohort to complete.
The programme is structured around a portfolio-based assessment by peers, with six core and three elective categories.
The core section includes the elements seen as fundamental to being a successful GP vet, complimented by the individual vet’s selection of three elective modules which best fit their clinical interests.
IVC says it plans for the GP Vet Futures Award to be externally accredited.
Hill’s Prescription Diet Canine r/d has been reformulated following new findings regarding the role of protein in weight loss and the development of new fibre technology.
According to Hill's, trials of the new formulation resulted in some impressive results, with individual overweight animals losing at least 22% of their body fat in 8 weeks while still maintaining muscle mass.
In addition, the company has developed a range of support measures to help raise awareness about obesity and encourage pet owners to come forward. There's a new website: http://www.%20hillsweightloss.co.uk/ containing tips on weight loss and e-mailed reminders about returning to the surgery for weight checks; a pet passport containing information on helping the pet live a longer and healthier life, an anatomy poster that describes the dangers of excess weight gain and a practice display materials kit. Libby Sheridan, Veterinary Affairs Manager at Hill’s, “It can be time consuming to put together a really good wall or table display. This kit offers the opportunity for use in its entirety, while also giving scope to add individual elements for those who want to customize the display further.”
Hill’s Prescription Diet Canine r/d will be available in 1.5Kg, 4Kg and 12Kg bags. The recipe of the current 350g can remains unchanged.
For more information call Hill’s Customer Service on 0800 282 438 or (ROI) 1-800 626002.
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.
Mrs Angie Scullion (pictured right) from Okehampton joined the Healthy Pet Club in May 2017 at Okeford Veterinary Centre with her Border Collie, Cassie. She was awarded a year’s free membership by the practice to celebrate the milestone.
Launched in 2010 with 11,000 members, the Healthy Pet Club helps pet owners budget for their pets’ healthcare by spreading payments over a year. They also make savings on vaccinations, flea and worm treatments and receive access to a wide range of other benefits.
Mr Mukesh Rughani, Healthy Pet Club Manager at CVS, said: "Pet owners want value so we constantly research the market to check that the discounts and benefits we offer through the Healthy Pet Club are the ones that we know they will find most meaningful.
"We are delighted that the Healthy Pet Club has reached the 300,000-member mark and we have a number of exciting developments planned for later this year which we believe will make it an even more useful tool for our member practices while setting a new standard in value for our clients."
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
Dr Briggs faced four charges and admitted to her conduct in the first three at the outset.
They related to three official Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) clinical investigation report forms she submitted following three official avian flu surveillance visits she'd undertaken as an Official Veterinarian (OV).
The three surveillance visits all took place during an outbreak of avian influenza in North Yorkshire and were on behalf of the APHA.
Dr Briggs admitted that she'd certified on each of the three forms that she had inspected specific poultry, that she had seen no clinical signs of avian influenza in the poultry and that in her opinion avian influenza did not exist and had not existed in the previous 56 days.
Dr Briggs also admitted that that she had subsequently submitted the three forms to the APHA.
The fourth charge alleged Dr Briggs conduct in certifying the three forms had been dishonest and that her actions risked undermining procedures, regulations and rules designed to protect animal welfare and public health.
Dr Briggs denied that she had been dishonest in any of her actions but admitted that her conduct had risked undermining procedures designed to protect animal welfare and public health.
Dr Briggs explained that in two cases she had relied on information given to her by the keepers of the poultry and in the remaining case it was possible that she had not visited the correct location of the poultry, had posted a letter through the wrong door and had then accidentally submitted a pre-populated inspection form to APHA.
Having heard evidence from the relevant poultry keepers, fellow Official Veterinarians, officials from the APHA and Dr Briggs herself, the Committee gave its determinations on dishonesty.
In relation to the first two charges, which concerned the visits that did take place, the Committee found Dr Briggs had been dishonest both in submitting the inspection forms to the APHA and also in certifying that she had seen no clinical signs or history of avian influenza in both cases.
The Committee concluded that an ordinary decent person would regard the submission of a signed form which contained false information as dishonest.
It also concluded that Dr Briggs had deliberately signed an official form which contained information which she knew to be untrue.
However, the Committee found that Dr Briggs was not dishonest in asserting on these forms that she was of the opinion that disease did not exist based upon the information provided to her by the poultry keepers.
In relation to the third charge, where Dr Briggs did not visit the property concerned, the Committee did not find it proven that she had been dishonest, having heard her evidence that, in this case, she had accidentally submitted a pre-populated inspection form.
The Committee next considered whether the admitted and proven charges amounted to serious professional misconduct.
Paul Morris, chairing the Committee and speaking on its behalf said: “In considering the seriousness of the misconduct, the Committee took into account the fact that the misconduct had involved dishonesty, that there had been a risk of injury to animals and humans (though this risk had not materialised), and that the misconduct had occurred when the respondent, as an Official Veterinarian, occupied a position of increased trust and responsibility.”
He added: “The Committee considered that honest, accurate and careful veterinary certification was a fundamental component of the responsibilities of a veterinary surgeon.
"The matters which the Committee had found to be proved fell far short of the standards expected of a registered veterinary surgeon and amounted, in the Committee’s judgment, to disgraceful conduct in a professional respect.”
In considering the sanction for Dr Briggs the Committee heard positive character testimonials from former employers and clients, as well as a representative from the APHA who said that Dr Briggs had shown contrition for the breaches while recognising that there was unlikely to be a repetition of the conduct and that Dr Briggs was a relatively new and inexperienced vet at the time of her actions.
Mr Morris said: “In the Committee’s judgement the circumstances of the incident were a mitigating factor in the sense that the respondent was working in a pressurised environment, and in a field of practice which was unfamiliar to her.
"The Committee had heard a considerable amount of evidence from various witnesses that the surveillance system created, to monitor the prevalence of avian influenza was one which placed considerable pressure on OVs and, perhaps inevitably, had some shortcomings.
"The respondent had not worked with poultry before so her inexperience in this area fed into this situation.
“The Committee took into account the fact that no actual harm had occurred and there was no financial gain to the respondent.
"The matters with which the Committee was concerned formed a highly unusual, and short-lived, episode in the respondent’s career.”
The Committee also considered that Dr Briggs had made open and frank admissions regarding most of the charges against her and had also shown genuine contrition over her failings.
In light of this, the Committee considered that a reprimand and warning as to future conduct was the most appropriate sanction.
Mr Morris added: “False certification can never be acceptable.
"Veterinary surgeons should never certify any matter which they know, or ought to know, not to be true.
"However, the Committee considered that this case was at the lower end of the spectrum of gravity of false certification cases, that there is no future risk to animals and that the respondent has demonstrated insight.
"In relation to the public interest, the Committee considered that a reasonable and fully informed member of the public would recognise that, in all the circumstances of this particular case, a reprimand and warning as to future conduct would be sufficient to satisfy the public interest.”
www.rcvs.org.uk/disciplinary
In her opening address, Mandisa said: "When the College was founded in 1844, it would have been unthinkable that a woman, let alone a black woman, would become President of the institution one day. I am immensely proud of this achievement and, while it clearly demonstrates progress, there is still plenty to do in widening access to our professions.”
She said she hoped to use her position as President to act as a role model to young people from under-represented groups, to encourage them to consider careers in veterinary surgery, and to support those already in the profession.
Mandisa, a graduate of the University of Edinburgh in 2008 and an elected member of RCVS Council since 2014, added: “I also take the Presidential baton from Niall to champion a more diverse and inclusive profession with renewed intention, and look forward to playing my part in our upcoming Diversity & Inclusion Action Plan.
“As recent weeks and the Black Lives Matter movement have highlighted, there is more to be done, and we are committed to doing the work necessary. It is essential that we support all members of the veterinary team to work in an environment that is free from discrimination and racism.”
In another first at the RCVS AGM, Matthew Rendle became the first male veterinary nurse to chair VN Council.
Dr Natalie Marks DVM CVJ will present "Meeting the expectations of the new generation of pet owners. Let’s go digital!" and Dr Sarah Heath RCVS & EBVS European Veterinary Specialist in Behavioural Medicine will talk about "Approaching dermatology cases with behaviour in mind".
Natalie's presentation will focus on what the millennial generation of pet owners expect from interactions with their vets and how clinicians need to dig deep to understand how these client groups process information. The talk will demonstrate the benefits of new digital technologies for communication and treatment follow ups, focusing on digital tools to meet client expectations and help the veterinary team offer the best advice.
Sarah's presentation will offer hands-on tips for everyday dermatology work in practice, focusing on the importance of considering emotional health when investigating and treating dermatology patients. She will also discuss the links between emotional state and dermatological disease.
There will also be live studio discussions with vets and nurses including Emma Lindbland Åström DVM, Kerstin Bergvall Diplomate DVM and Cecilia Friberg Diplomate DVM from Sweden. These discussions will focus on communication with pet owners and how the veterinary team copes with the many challenges that occur, especially when it comes to detailed dermatology treatments. Emma will be joined in the studio by a dog owner who will provide owner insights.
Andrew Fullerton BVSc (Hons) MRCVS, product manager at Ceva Animal Health, said: “Today’s pet owners are often millennials who embrace their new family member with huge enthusiasm, however they often have very different expectations than those of previous generations because they can easily access a wealth of pet health information online.
"The Ceva Derma Day will address this by providing online delegates with extensive information on what makes millennials tick and offer proactive communication tools to strengthen vet/client relationships.”
To register for Ceva Derma Day visit: https://ceva-derma-day-2021.confetti.events
The event will count for four hours CPD. Delegates who pre-register in advance will be issued with a certificate and be able to watch a recording of the sessions afterwards. Those who don't, won't.
Virbac highlights research which shows that 90% of all dogs over one year are affected by dental issues, including plaque, tartar, gingivitis and halitosis1, but small breed dogs are 5 times more likely to have dental issues than large breeds2.
The new formulation of Veterinary HPM Small & Toy range contains Ascophyllum Nodosum, which Virbac says has been scientifically proven activity on four aspects of oral and dental health: calculus index, volatile sulphur compound concentration, plaque index and gingival bleeding index3.
Virbac points to research which shows that after being absorbed in the small intestine and then secreted into the oral cavity via saliva, Ascophyllum Nodosum inhibits some pathways involved in plaque or calculus development4.
Nutrition-wise, Virbac says the new diet offers 33% less carbohydrate and 34% more protein, on average, compared to other brands sold in veterinary practices5.
90% of the protein included in the diets is also from animal protein.
The updated range also features 2 new kibble sizes (10.5mm & 7.5mm), for smaller mouths.
VetSurgeon member Simone Kirby Dip EVDC MRCVS, a veterinary dental specialist in London and Hertfordshire, will be running the BUPA London 10,000 for SPANA: Society for the Protection of Animals Abroad.
The charity provides free veterinary care to working animals (donkeys, mules, horses and camels) in some of the poorest parts of the world. They treat around 400,000 hard-working animals every year, ensuring that they can continue providing an income and livelihood for their impoverished owners. Through an extensive education programme, SPANA speak to animal owners to teach them how to improve husbandry and management. They also have initiatives of visiting schools to encourage positive attitudes to animals in school children.
Simone said: "Please give generously for this worthy cause. It would be wonderful if I can meet my fund-raising target of £1,500 - and every penny counts! Thank You!"
To support Simone, please visit her fund-raising website www.justgiving.com/Simone-Kirby
The event is being hosted by Luke Gamble as part of the company's ‘Advocates of Knowledge’ series, and there are £400 worth of prizes to be won:
Advocate Senior Brand Manager Vicky McAlister said: “We want to ensure that we’re delivering CPD in an engaging way, so that vets are still able to upskill in these areas, whilst also being able to engage with other vets in the industry, which is especially important given current times.
"Following the success of the first event, we’re pleased to be back again to host another and are committed to continuing to support CPD progression.”
To register for the event, visit: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/113870170746
Invetx specialises in developing protein-based therapeutics for chronic conditions in companion animals, with a focus on monoclonal antibodies (mAbs).
Dechra says these therapies have targeted modes of action and therefore are often more effective, provide an extended duration of activity and have fewer side effects, all of which help to extend and improve the quality of life for companion animals while decreasing the care burden for pet owners.
Jesper Nordengaard, Chief Executive Officer of Dechra, said: "I regard this acquisition as hugely important for Dechra, marking the start of a new chapter in our growth.
"It demonstrates our ambition to create further points of differentiation and relevance with veterinarians and pet owners alike, confidence in our ability to deliver highly innovative new products, and capacity to execute large scale transactions at speed."
Jesper added: “The half-life extension technology developed by Invetx allows for the generation of therapeutics that make treatment of chronic conditions far more convenient for pet owners and veterinarians through improved compliance.
"The pipeline of products currently being developed are all high value potential and will deepen our expertise in core therapeutic areas such as atopic dermatitis and osteoarthritis, allowing for synergistic product development, sales & marketing, and education efforts in the future.”
https://www.invetx.com
Hill's Pet Nutrition has released the results of a survey of how last year's graduates feel about clinical nutrition.
Despite teaching of clinical nutrition moving up the agenda for most vet schools, over one third of respondents said that they did not feel confident about applying their knowledge of pet nutrition to clinical cases. The remaining two thirds claimed to be reasonably confident but no respondent felt very confident in this area.
When it comes to advising clients 86 per cent would make a nutritional recommendation for their clinical cases but of those, half left it up to the nurse to decide on the brand of food. For 14 per cent of the new graduates, the decision was made to allow nurses to decide on the type of nutrition and brand.
The respondents were also asked about their preferred form of nutritional CPD support. Despite the advances in on-line CPD, the majority expressed a preference for face-to-face teaching in the form of in-clinic updates from reps, speaker tours and roadshows. However e-updates and on-line courses were preferred over paper correspondence courses.
Adrian Pratt, Veterinary Affairs Manager at Hill's Pet Nutrition said: "We recognise that our short survey dealt with only a small number of respondents but it gave us much food for thought. It's disappointing, for ourselves, but more so for the newly qualified vets, that a significant number don't feel confident about making nutritional recommendations. Having been in those 'new vet' shoes, I have to wonder whether this is a crisis of confidence or actually founded on a real or perceived lack of knowledge and also whether this is a finding that applies only to nutrition or affects other areas too. We would very much like to know the answers to these questions because we think that this could be a source of very considerable stress to the individuals concerned.
"Our survey doesn't really tell is whether this is resulting in vets delegating nutritional matters to their nurses because nurses are seen to have at least equivalent, or possibly greater knowledge of nutritional matters and are respected as fellow professionals, or whether these cases are being passed to the nurses with a sigh of relief because the vet doesn't feel able to deal with them. I also found it interesting that vets did not want to be seen to be actively recommending a particular brand, despite the wide variations in clinical evidence and nutritional make up between brands. I do wonder if there could be a perception here that 'brand' is a commercial decision that can be made by another member of the healthcare team, rather than a clinical decision."
Marge Chandler, DVM, MS, DACVN, MACVSc, DACVIM, DECVIM-CA, MRCVS is one of the two American College of Veterinary Nutrition diplomates in the UK (along with Dr Dan Chan) and believes that nutrition is well integrated at the R(D)SVS, "In addition to the general basics, we also teach the basics of small animal nutrition for healthy adult cats and dogs, kittens and puppies, with some emphasis on the special needs of cats. During the clinical lectures there is information provided for disease specific nutritional needs, for example with chronic kidney disease, liver disease, and gastrointestinal disorders. In their final year, our students are given an interactive tutorial on clinical nutrition for hospitalized small animal patients. In addition to this tutorial, we discuss the patients' nutritional requirements and supplementation during rounds, and there is a nutrition form for each medicine in-patient requiring supplementation."
For those who need access to good quality post-graduate CPD on the topic, Hill's has just launched the latest Veterinary Nutrition Academy (VNA) course. VNA Level 3 is all about applying nutritional principles to make a recommendation appropriate to a clinical case. Anyone who would like to brush up on the topic can register with VNA - registration and the course itself is free of charge. VNA also gives access to booking forms for Hill's roadshows and other events.
Adrian said: "While face-to-face training events are still proving to be highly popular, it is clear that travel time and cost can significantly hinder access to CPD particularly for those with family commitments or in geographically remote locations and our on-line training courses are continuing to grow in popularity."
Registration to VNA is free at www.myhillspet.com/vna. To complete registration the practice U number will be required and this is available by contacting Jane Quail at Hill's on 01923 814454.
Nominations can be made for three RCVS Honours: the Queen’s Medal, the Golden Jubilee Award and Honorary Associateship.
The Queen’s Medal was introduced in 2013 and is the highest honour that the College can bestow upon a veterinary surgeon in recognition of those who have achieved a highly distinguished career and outstanding achievements. Nominations can be made by any Member of the RCVS in respect of another veterinary surgeon. The 2016 winner of the award was Professor Randolph Richards who was honoured for his contribution to the development of aquaculture in Scotland.
The Golden Jubilee Award was introduced in 2011 to mark the 50th anniversary of the first RCVS training course for veterinary nurses and now recognises those nurses who are taking a leadership role within the profession. The 2016 winner of the award was Louise O’Dwyer who was recognised for her pioneering role within the profession. Nominations can be made by either veterinary nurses or veterinary surgeons in respect of a veterinary nurse.
Nominations can also be made for Honorary Associateship which is eligible for those who, while not veterinary surgeons or nurses, have made a significant impact in the veterinary field. Previous winners have included scientists, farmers, farriers, educationalists and journalists. This year an Honorary Associateship was awarded to Professor David Lane for his support in launching the College’s Certificate in Advanced Veterinary Practice.
Further information about making nominations for each of these awards, including nominations forms, can be found at www.rcvs.org.uk/honours.
The deadline for nominations is Friday 16 September 2016 and all awards will be bestowed at RCVS Day 2017 in July next year.
Those with questions about making a nomination can contact Peris Dean, Executive Secretary, on p.dean@rcvs.org.uk.
The RCVS is seeking candidates to run for election to the RCVS and VN Councils.
There are six seats on the RCVS Council and two on the VN Council due to be filled in the 2010 election. Candidate nominations must be received by 31 January 2010; voting papers will then be distributed to all veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses eligible to vote, the election held in March and the results announced early in May. Those elected will take their seats at RCVS Day in July to serve four-year terms.
Jane Hern, RCVS Registrar said: "Like us or loathe us, what the RCVS does impacts directly on the lives of veterinary surgeons and nurses, their clients and patients. Getting regulation right is something that all Members and Listed/Registered VNs have power to influence.
"We know from the reaction we get when we propose changes or ask for your comments that vets and VNs are not backwards about coming forwards," Jane continued. "There has been a substantial rise in the number of vets voting, since a low point in voter turnout was reached in 2002. So, if you know someone you think is up to the job, why not persuade them to stand?"
All prospective candidates need to provide the signatures and registered/listed addresses of two proposers, and should also submit a short biography, 'manifesto' and photograph for inclusion in the elections booklets. Nobody can nominate more than one candidate, and no current member of the RCVS Council or VN Council may nominate anyone.
Newly elected RCVS Council members should expect to sit on at least one committee which, together with Council attendances, means a time commitment of at least six to eight days a year. Those elected to the VN Council should expect to spend approximately six to eight days attending Council meetings, working parties and subcommittees. Both RCVS Council and VN Council members are permitted to claim certain expenditures arising from Council-related duties and their employers can also claim a standard day-rate for loss of earnings.
Nomination forms and full details relating to RCVS Council nominations can be downloaded from www.rcvs.org.uk/rcvscouncil10 or obtained by contacting the Executive Office (020 7222 0761 or executiveoffice@rcvs.org.uk). Nomination forms and details relating to the VN Council will be online shortly at www.rcvs.org.uk/vncouncil10 and can also be requested from Annette Amato (020 7202 0788 or a.amato@rcvs.org.uk).
All nominations must be made in writing on the prescribed form and received by the Registrar on or before the closing date of 31 January 2010.