CEVA Animal Health's live enzootic abortion vaccine, CEVAC® Chlamydophila, has been renamed CEVAC® Chlamydia and repackaged in a larger bottle size.
According to the company, infectious abortion, particularly enzootic abortion (Chlamydiosis) can wipe out up to 50% of lambs but strategic use of CEVAC Chlamydia, a live enzootic abortion vaccine, can help keep the flock safe. It can prevent abortion and also control excretion and the threat of infection. For added convenience CEVAC Chlamydia can be used on the same day as the toxoplasmosis vaccine. This can save administration time and money.
For extra efficiency with big flocks CEVAC Chlamydia is now available in a larger, 50 dose bottle in addition to the original 20 dose bottle. It is administered using a special multi-dose injector gun.
CEVA says that a strategic vaccination every four years will help flocks remain chlamydiosis-free. Routine preventative measures are also advised prior to mating and when new sheep are introduced to the flock, to ensure abortion and infection rates always remain as low as possible. All animals should be vaccinated in the first year, with replacements being vaccinated from six months of age, at least four weeks prior to tupping.
For further product information contact your local CEVA representative or CEVA Animal Health Ltd, 90 The Broadway, Chesham, Bucks, HP5 1EG or visit the website at www.ceva.uk.com
The company is now inviting practices to sign up for the free Beta trial and shape the development of the new platform and how video consultations can be integrated into traditional ways of working.
The platform, which can be branded with the practice logo, uses an app which clients download onto their mobile devices and use to book appointments. The system has its own appointment booking system, but also integrates with Vetstoria. When an appointment is booked via video, practitioners see it in their PMS. They then visit their online account, select the relevant appointment and click ‘start video call’. Payment can be collected from the owner prior to the consultation.
Susie Samuel, Managing Director of VetHelpDirect said: "While developing this product, we have been mindful that the use of telemedicine in our industry has been hugely controversial. We believe that inviting local vets to trial and refine this technology, using their team to work with their own clients removes many of the risks and dangers otherwise inherent in the proposition."
I agree wholeheartedly. The controversy over telemedicine has been about the idea of allowing the prescription of drugs to animals that have not been seen in person. Using a service like this (or the one launched by the Virtual Vet Group last year) to offer video consultations to patients that are already under your care strikes me as an altogether different kettle of fish. I think it will help improve engagement with existing clients, by reducing unnecessary trips to the practice for follow-up or post-operative consultations, saving time, money and the planet.
Susie added: "In our fast-moving world pet owners are increasingly reliant on technology and expect to be able to access services easily. The results of our recent VetHelpDirect research of 419 owners showed 38% of survey respondents said they would like to have the option of a video consultation if it was offered by their own vet. If we are to keep up with this demand, we need to embrace new ways of working."
VetHelpDirect says that whilst it believes that the growth in the use of this technology will change the way veterinary medicine is practiced, video consultations will always work alongside in-person consultations, as just one tool in an overall strategy of care, and certainly will not replace face to face diagnosis.
Let's hope so.
Susie added: "What is clear from our research is that whilst clients would like to be able to have video consultations with a vet their strong preference is for this to be with their own vet; whilst 38% of people would use video consultations with their own vet this falls to only 7% if it is provided by a vet not known to them.
"Of course, telemedicine is by no means the answer in every case, what the new service does offer is flexibility for practitioners and the ability to work in new ways that will benefit the animals and owners. For example, giving free telephone advice has become common place in many practices but is very hard to monetise. Video consultations provide a commercial solution to this problem.”
For more information, or to join the trial, contact Susie Samuel susie@vethelpdirect.com
The modules, which are presented by US veterinary oncology specialists Dr Chad Johannes and Dr Sue Ettinger, are titled: ‘Mastering Mast Cell Tumours’, ‘Treating Canine Mast Cell Tumours’ and ‘Stelfonta’.
Each of the modules offer 30 minutes of bitesize, interactive CPD and are suitable for both veterinary surgeons and nurses.
Dr Neil Mottram MRCVS, Technical Product Manager at Virbac said: ‘We appreciate that for the majority of veterinary teams, finding time for CPD is pretty challenging at present. We therefore hope that the bitesize, on-demand format of these modules can provide the perfect solution, whilst still delivering high quality CPD’.
The modules can be accessed at: vet-uk.virbac.com/stelfonta/education
Virtual lunch and learn meetings are also available from Virbac Territory Managers.
For more information, speak to your Virbac Territory Manager, or visit vet-uk.virbac.com/stelfonta
The new series comprises six online discussions taking place over the course of the spring, covering everything from diversity to creativity to identity.
The upcoming programme of events is as follows:
Tuesday 1st March 2022 7pm to 8pm: Celebrating diversityChaired by Gurpreet Gill, RCVS Leadership & Inclusion Manager. Panel members Lacey Pitcher RVN, Dr Olivia Anderson-Nathan MRCVS and Samantha Payne RVN will be talking about what celebrating diversity means to people, exploring how this links to mental health, and sharing their thoughts on why – and how – the professions should be working towards greater inclusivity, both in and out of the workplace.
Monday 21st March 2022 7pm to 8pm: The joy of creativityThis discussion will look at why creativity is so important for people’s lives and how it can be used to support mental health and wellbeing with a panel comprising Dr Silvia Janksa MRCVS and Olivia Oginska MRCVS.
Tuesday 5th April 2022 7pm to 8pm: Overcoming self-doubt and stressing outThis discussion will consider the main causes of stress in the veterinary workforce and how this may have shifted throughout the pandemic. The discussion will encompass coping strategies, the ways in which stress can be channelled in a more constructive way, and overcoming feelings of self-doubt.
Thursday 21st April 2022 7pm to 8pm: Identity – who am I away from work?This discussion will consider to what extent veterinary professionals should let their careers define them, the importance of understanding oneself in and out of a work setting, and how people can learn to value, accept, and appreciate their whole selves.
Tuesday 3rd May 2022 7pm to 8pm: Saying goodbye…letting go and learning to growThis discussion will consider how best to cope with the various types of loss that may be encountered in an individual’s professional and personal life, and how to learn, adapt and grow from these losses.
Thursday 12th May 2022 7pm to 8pm: Tackling loneliness in a hyperconnected worldThis Campfire Chat will discuss why meaningful connection and having a sense of belonging matters, and how individuals and communities can tackle loneliness in a hyperconnected world.
Angharad Belcher, Director of the Mind Matters Initiative, said: “We all lead busy professional and personal lives and sometimes it means that self-care, which includes talking to others about how we’re feeling and about issues that we find important to us, can fall by the wayside.
“Our Campfire Chats offer a perfect opportunity – and excuse – to take a bit of time out of your schedule to engage in a structured but informal discussion about all manner of subjects, expertly led by a chair and panel with experience, lived and otherwise, on the topic being talked about.
“These events are for the whole veterinary team, we keep the sessions very informal, and there is also the opportunity to share or ask questions of the panel.”
To sign up for the first session, visit https://bit.ly/3GnQK0G.
For further information about the events contact Abi Hanson, Mind Matters Initiative Officer, on a.hanson@rcvs.org.uk
The coils need to be cooled to -460 °F in order to get good quality images.
To achieve the same result without helium, Hallmarq’s new MRI uses a conduction-based cooling system in a strong vacuum, which eliminates the need for helium, a quench pipe, oxygen monitor, or any additional power.
This, Hallmarq says, makes the new system more environmentally friendly than its helium-based counterparts and reduces the upfront and ongoing costs of offering a veterinary MRI service to patients.
The new technology comes in response to growing concerns over helium supply.
Extraction and usage of helium is quickly outpacing its natural synthesis, as a result of which, Hallmarq says helium prices have soared from £12.75 per litre in December of 2017 to between £50 and £55 per litre in June 2022.
For veterinary hospitals already using high-field MRI machines, or for those considering them in the future, reliance on the 1,500-2,200 litres of helium required to keep a standard MRI functioning may not be sustainable.
Hallmarq’s Chief Technology Officer Dr. Steve Roberts said: “Hallmarq’s Zero-Helium Small Animal 1.5T MRI system increases access to diagnostic care for small animal patients, while lessening the financial, environmental and supply chain risks associated with traditional helium-based MRI systems."
www.hallmarq.net.
Designed to help veterinary teams make clearer, more confident clinical decisions, the flowchart provides a step-by-step approach to diagnosing and managing ear disease in dogs and cats.
Renzo Di Florio, Technical Veterinary Adviser at Krka UK, said: “It takes you through each step, from diagnosis to treatment and long-term management, including identifying cases that might benefit from referral.
"It can also help practices to develop an otitis externa management plan protocol that’s useful for the whole team, and that’s practical and easy to integrate into existing workflows.”
One of the main messages in the flowchart is the central role of cytology in otitis management.
Tim said: “Cytology is essential to assess the level of inflammation and detect the presence of bacteria or Malassezia.
"This helps clinicians make informed decisions about whether antibiotics are truly needed.
"In contrast, culture and sensitivity testing can be misleading when used to guide topical therapy.”
https://www.krka.co.uk/veterinary-knowledge-hub
The NOAH Code of Practice Committee, chaired by Mr Guy Tritton, has found Dechra Veterinary Products in breach of three items of the NOAH Code, following a complaint.
The complaint related to an advertisement and detailer promoting Felimazole with the wording "Are you taking a heavy-handed approach to hyperthyroidism?" and "with Felimazole, you don't have to!"
The Committee took the view that by implication this referred to Vidalta because Vidalta is the only other licensed oral treatment on the market for hyperthyroidism.
As a result, the Committee found both promotions in breach of Clause 4.3 because of the implication that Vidalta is less safe than Felimazole.
The Committee did not consider the promotions disparaged the manufacturer as there is no evidence to show it is unsafe.
The Committee also found that the table in the detailer (page 4) suggesting that one dosage of 5 mg per day of Felimazole has the same efficacy as two doses of 2.5 mg, (which is contrary to the dosing statement within the SPC: "If, for reasons of compliance, once daily dosing with a 5 mg tablet is preferable, then this is acceptable although reduced efficacy can be expected compared to a twice daily regime.") was misleading, contrary to Clause 4.3 of the Code.
Full details of the Committee's rulings are on the NOAH website at www.noah.co.uk/code. The full report of this particular case will be available shortly.
Nutraflex contains turmeric curcumin complex and boswellia extract, which Nutravet says work synergistically to support the natural systems that control inflammation.
The new product also contains glucosamine, a structural component of cartilage, and chondroitin sulphate to help maintain synovial fluid viscosity.
Nutravet claims the new product is fast acting, soothes stiff joints, aids long-term mobility, flexibility and joint structure, and supports the natural systems that control inflammation.
Chris Jones, Director at Nutravet said: “We’re delighted to be adding Nutraflex to our market-leading range of natural health products for pets.
"We’re always looking at ways of improving our products and Nutraflex provides our authorised stockists with a high strength veterinary exclusive joint support, supported by independent trial data, which works quickly to ultimately help pets that are suffering with joint stiffness.”
Nutraflex is available to order exclusively to authorised veterinary practices.
For more information, contact Nutravet on 0845 604 1688, email info@nutravet.co.uk or visit www.nutravet.com.
Claire was presented with the award at a black tie event in Manchester yesterday.
She said: Our local community is massively important to myself and my practice – we have been going 50 years this year so it’s a big year for us this year so to get this award on this anniversary means so much, especially for my husband’s father who started the practice and sadly passed away a number of years ago so I just wish he’d been here to see it.”
The other winners were:
Petplan’s Sales and Marketing Director, Bella von Mesterhazy said: “All of the night’s winners are so deserving of the accolade, thanks to their true commitment to their profession, and like all those who sent in nominations, Petplan is incredibly grateful for the outstanding services provided by not only our winners, but veterinary professionals around the country.”
The study1 suggests that dogs with uncomplicated diarrhoea do not need antibiotics as part of their veterinary care plans.
The study included a random sample of 894 dogs aged between three months and 10 years old diagnosed with uncomplicated diarrhoea in 2019.
Of these, 355 (39.7%) dogs were prescribed antibiotics, and 539 (60.3%) dogs were not prescribed antibiotics (with or without additional supportive treatment) at first presentation for diarrhoea.
For the analysis, the dogs were balanced for a range of other differences between the groups including age, breed, bodyweight, insurance status, the presence of two or more medical conditions, vomiting, reduced appetite, blood in faeces, raised temperature, duration of diarrhoea, additional treatment prescription and veterinary group.
The researchers say this effectively meant that the only difference between the two groups was that one group received antibiotic treatment while the other did not.
The likelihood of clinical resolution of diarrhoea in the dogs prescribed antibiotics was 88.3%, compared with 87.9% in dogs not prescribed antibiotics.
This tiny difference of 0.4% between the groups was not statistically significant, leading to the conclusion that antibiotic treatment did not cause any beneficial effects in the treatment of uncomplicated diarrhoea in dogs.
Almost nine in 10 dogs with uncomplicated diarrhoea recovered after a single veterinary visit regardless of antibiotic treatment.
As an additional analysis, the study also explored gastrointestinal nutraceuticals (products derived from food sources that aim to restore digestive health such as probiotics and prebiotics) for treatment of uncomplicated diarrhoea in dogs.
Gastrointestinal nutraceutical prescription (with or without other supportive treatment) at first presentation of uncomplicated diarrhoea caused no statistically significant difference in clinical resolution compared to dogs not prescribed gastrointestinal nutraceuticals.
Camilla Pegram, VetCompass PhD student at the RVC and lead author of the paper, said: “This study used an exciting new approach that allowed us to determine ‘cause’ rather than being limited to ‘association’.
"Diarrhoea is a common condition in dogs and is often treated with antibiotics.
"However, this study highlighted that antibiotic prescription at first presentation of diarrhoea caused no difference in clinical resolution.
"Therefore, this arms veterinarians with the evidence-base for restricting antibiotics for uncomplicated diarrhoea in dogs, and owners should be prepared to only have an antibiotic prescription if absolutely necessary.”
Fergus Allerton, project lead for the PROTECT ME guidelines and co-author of the paper said: “Rational antimicrobial use is critical to defend ourselves and our pets against the growing threat from antimicrobial resistance.
"This study provides vital evidence to strengthen recommendations to withhold antibiotics when treating dogs with acute diarrhoea. Knowing that the outcome will be the same without antibiotics should reassure veterinarians to adopt this approach consistently.”
Reference
The British Equine Veterinary Association has published the results of a survey it commissioned which found that horse vets in the UK are probably at greater risk of injury than any other civilian profession, including the prison service.
For the study, which was conducted by the Institute of Health and Wellbeing and the School of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Glasgow, 620 equine vets completed a work-related injuries questionnaire. The results of the study indicated that an equine vet could expect to sustain between seven and eight work-related injuries that impeded them from practicing, during a 30-year working life.
If the 620 respondents were representative of the rest of the profession, the injuries they reported would equate to 26,452 per 100,000 equine vets in employment per year. That compares with 10,760 for people working in the prison service, 8,700 for policemen below the rank of sergeant, 6,980 for welders, metal formers and related trades, and 4,760 for construction workers.
Participants were asked to describe their worst-ever injury. Most were described as bruising, fracture and laceration, with the most common site of injury being the leg (29%), followed by the head (23%). The main cause of injury was a kick with a hind limb (49%), followed by strike with a fore limb (11%), followed by crush injury (5%). Nearly a quarter of these reported injuries required hospital admission and notably, 7% resulted in loss of consciousness. The most common reason for the examination during which the injury occurred was foot lameness, followed by dental and female reproductive.
BEVA Past-President Keith Chandler said: “We were shocked to discover the extent of the injuries sustained. Of greatest concern is the number of vets who suffered head injuries and unconsciousness. These injuries appeared to be more common when certain procedures were being performed, such as endoscopy of the upper respiratory tract, when vets are often only partly sighted while using examination equipment, or during wound management and bandage-changes, where vets are often crouched-down for long periods, next to the patient.”
38% of the ‘worst’ injuries occurred when the vet was working with a ‘pleasure’ horse and most frequently (48% of all responses) the horse handler was the owner or the client at the time of the injury. Whilst the number of laypersons or handlers injured at the same time was low, Tim Parkin, vet and lead researcher, pointed out: “This work should act as a wake up call to all involved in the training, employment and engagement of equine vets. The risks associated with handling and working with horses should be the primary consideration for equine vets and horses owners alike, every time a horse is examined or treated. In addition, the experience of the horse handler should be considered when undertaking riskier procedures.”
David Mountford, Chief Executive of BEVA said: “The results are very concerning and justify a careful prospective scientific quantification of the risks. In the short term, knowledge of these risks allows us to better inform all vets who work with horses. In turn vets will be able to inform horse owners, horse-keepers and trainers of the risks, and this may provide justification for having trained assistance on-hand or the more extensive use of sedative drugs in practice, potentially reducing the risk of injury.
"The British Equine Veterinary Association will now look to work with the Health and Safety Executive, Veterinary Schools, large employers of vets in the UK and our members to help develop policies to mitigate the risk of serious injury for vets working with horses.”
Photograph courtesy Towcester Veterinary Centre
Zoetis says the Vetscan OptiCell represents a significant leap forward in technology and offers meaningful time, cost and space savings for veterinary healthcare teams, contributing to better patient outcomes and a more efficient clinic workflow.
It uses cell-focusing and AI-powered classification technology for CBC analysis, delivering a claimed lab quality accuracy at the point of care.
Dr. Richard Goldstein, DVM, DACVIM, DECVIM-CA, Global Chief Medical Officer and Head of Medical Affairs at Zoetis said: “Vetscan OptiCell delivers high-quality results, enables improved efficiency, and provides a compact footprint.
"For the first time, we are able to use advanced AI image recognition technology to characterise the blood cells instead of relying on their size or other physical parameters.”
Pre-orders will be available in the UK later this year.
Dechra Veterinary Products has launched an online CPD programme to help the veterinary profession diagnose, manage and treat dogs suffering from Hyperadrenocorticism (Cushing's syndrome).
The new Canine Hyperadrenocorticism CPD module has been designed to help vets by providing them with a comprehensive overview of the condition, which they can study in their own time and at their own pace. According to Dechra, it aims to take the guesswork out of managing this complex condition and to support vets in improving the quality of life of Cushing's syndrome patients.
It is the latest online CPD course to be offered through The Dechra Academy, a resource which offers a range of learning and support content and client materials. Accounting for six hours' CPD, the Cushing's syndrome online module complements a CPD road show on the disease recently completed by Dechra around the UK. Over 350 vets attended the sessions and further meetings are scheduled for later in 2011.
Greg Williams, Veterinary Technical Services Manager, said: "Cushing's syndrome remains a challenge to the profession because the clinical signs can easily be confused with those of other disorders and tests results are not always clear cut. We know from the strong attendance at our road show earlier this year that there is a real hunger in the profession to build stronger understanding of the disease.
"Through The Dechra Academy, we bring together the latest thinking on a range of clinical conditions and provide practical, up to the minute training, tips, tools and case studies to help vets spread best practice across their clinical and nursing staff. We also offer CPD in a range of formats - face to face, online and video - to ensure we can accommodate the needs of even the busiest practice.
"We're delighted to launch this new module on Cushing's syndrome and know that it will prove to be a useful tool for vets in practice."
For further information on The Dechra Academy or Cushing's syndrome CPD, please contact your Territory Manager, ring Dechra on 01939 211200 or visit www.dechra.co.uk/academy.
Dechra Veterinary Products Ltd is part of Dechra Pharmaceuticals PLC ('Dechra') and offers a range of pharmaceutical products and instruments to veterinary practices in the UK. The company specialises in the development and marketing of licensed branded pharmaceuticals and specialist premium pet foods for companion animals in the global veterinary market. Dechra is committed to developing new products and services that support the work of veterinary professionals and enhance the lives of their patients and also to investing in products and added-value services that deliver its promise to support veterinary professionals and pet owners.
The company points to a survey of 1000 dog owners it conducted in July which found that 77% would put many of the top ten signs of Cushing's down to ‘old age’.
According to research carried out by CM research in July 2018, for every 100 cases of Cushing’s syndrome treated, a further 57 are suspected but not diagnosed.
The ‘Prime Suspects’ campaign will encourage dog owners to become a ‘Cushing’s Detective’ and look out for signs in their dogs.
To help, the company has developed a series of characters to illustrate the signs of Cushings: Panting Patsy, Leaky Larry, Lazy Lynn, Greedy Gus and Little Patch.
A nationwide pet-focused multimedia campaign will support the ‘Prime Suspects’ initiative and will include TV and print advertising, online banners, pay per click advertising and social media to engage owners and encourage them to seek advice from their vet if they suspect Cushing’s in their dog.
Dechra has also launched Cushing’s Connect, a digital platform single resource hub to help vets keep up to date with current best practice in managing Cushing’s.
The hub has information and tools to enhance diagnostic protocols, advice and literature covering pathophysiology, diagnosis and ongoing case management including treatment protocols and monitoring schedules, and interactive guides and videos by top veterinary specialists.
There's also a client communication toolkit with owner-focused resources to encourage dog owners to spot the signs and seek help from their vet.
https://www.dechra.co.uk/cushings-connect
The relevant section of the Government advice states: "This [key worker status] includes those involved in food production, processing, distribution, sale and delivery, as well as those essential to the provision of other key goods (for example hygienic and veterinary medicines)."
The RCVS/BVA statement, which is intended to help veterinary surgeons decide whether or not they can claim ‘key worker’ status and ask for their children to continue to be taken into schools, reminds veterinary surgeons to consider the wider societal picture and ensure that they only claim ‘key worker’ status if absolutely necessary.
The statement also stresses that the RCVS Code of Professional Conduct responsibility of the veterinary surgeon to take steps to provide 24-hour emergency first aid and pain relief to animals according to their skills and the specific situation continues, and veterinary practices will need to continue to carry out this work. It is important that animal owners are able to focus on their own health, and not need to worry about their pets. Both the RCVS and BVA believe that veterinary surgeons who are providing this essential work can be considered key workers.
The statement in full is as follows:
Veterinary surgeons as key workers in relation to school closures
RCVS and BVA appreciate that veterinary surgeons will feel a great deal of uncertainty at the present time, and that many will be facing considerable difficulties due to the closure of schools for most pupils.
The official government advice can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-maintaining-educational-provision/guidance-for-schools-colleges-and-local-authorities-on-maintaining-educational-provision.
The guidance emphasises that if children can be at home then they should be, in order to help to prevent the virus from spreading.
The government has granted key worker status by sector rather than profession. Some veterinary work will definitely fall into the ‘key worker’ category. RCVS and BVA are therefore providing some additional advice below, following consultation with the UK Chief Veterinary Officer:
SummaryAt this time the provision of public health and the maintenance of food production need to take priority, and veterinary surgeons working in these areas should be considered key workers.
Veterinary surgeons working in emergency care can also be considered key workers. This will not apply to every veterinary surgeon in clinical practice, and practices may need to consider rationalising their services to achieve this.
The guidance has been welcomed by both the BSAVA and BEVA. David Mountford, Chief Executive of BEVA said: "As veterinary professionals we are duty-bound to provide essential care, relieve suffering and protect the health of the public. Recognition as key workers in such circumstances is welcomed but we would encourage vets to only add to the burden faced by schools where animal welfare is at risk and all other avenues have been explored."
Prior to becoming COO, Tim was Managing Director of three referral hospitals owned by Linnaeus – Davies Veterinary Specialists, London Veterinary Specialists and Southfields Veterinary Specialists – and a number of its primary care sites.
Prior to joining Linnaeus, Tim worked in Iceland, where he was a vet for the Icelandic Government.
On his return from Iceland in 2016, he joined Village Vet and then progressed into a range of regional management and practice leadership positions across the industry.
Tim said: "I am proud to be part of our wonderful, unique industry that, although currently facing a number of challenges, continues to make such a difference to the lives of our patients and their owners every day.
“In my first vet role in mixed practice, I was fortunate to receive brilliant support, guidance and encouragement from my team.
"Since then, I have always wanted to do the same for my colleagues, particularly those who are just starting their careers.
“I have used my experience within the veterinary profession to support some fantastic teams at Linnaeus.
"Becoming COO is an honour and opportunity that will enable me to help even more people across the business.”
The company says that as a community interest company, it can help to bridge the gap between charities, which provide help only for those who are eligible, and commercial practices, which are becoming increasingly unaffordable as they are acquired by corporates and private equity companies.
The rules governing CIC companies mean that their assets can only be used for their social objectives and there is a limit to the money that can be distributed to shareholders: 5% above the Bank of England base rate to a maximum of 35% of profits.
Animal Trust does not charge consultation fees, so all pets are initially seen free of charge. If it turns out there’s nothing wrong, there's no charge. If treatment or medicine is required, prices are published on the website, so clients can see exactly what everything costs.
Founder Owen Monie says: “We are here to provide a comprehensive vet service for people who earn a real, living wage. We want to deliver the best access to good vet care and to remove the barriers that stop people getting care for their animals – that’s why we provide free consultations. This means pet owners can get professional advice without worrying about having to pay a consultation fee. If no treatment is needed – there’s no fee. It’s as simple as that.”
Owen says that large corporations argue they can bring better management, efficiency and innovation to the sector, and claim that costs have gone up in part due to advances in animal medicine and clients’ expectations.
"That may well be true, but big isn’t always better. In addition to its legal status as a CIC, Animal Trust lives by a set of core values (straightforward, accessible, sustainable and fair) that are becoming increasingly meaningful to customers and clients as an alternative to companies who appear to be only interested in the bottom line. There isn’t an NHS equivalent for animals – so is becoming a CIC the model that all vet practices should be looking to adopt?"
The Bella Moss Foundation (BMF) has announced the launch of a mobile app version of its online veterinary practice hygiene audit.
The app, which was developed with the help of Ceva Animal Health, is now available to download free from Google Play (for Android-based smartphones) and itunes.
To download the audit app for iOS visit: https://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/bella-moss-foundation-practice/id1096044355
To download the audit app for Android visit: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=thebellamossfoundation.bmfhygieneself_auditapp
The original online check list, which continues to be hosted on the BMF website, was devised by BMF's team of clinical advisers, including VN Louise O'Dwyer and vets Pam Mosedale, Tim Nuttall and Chris Laurence. It enables staff to rate hygiene protocols across every area of their practice, resulting in a room-by-room percentage hygiene score, as well as an overall contamination risk score.
Since its launch last year, more than 150 practices have used the web-based tool and BMF hopes many more practices will download the app and use it regularly to check and maintain their hygiene standards.
BMF founder and infection control campaigner Jill Moss said: "We are absolutely thrilled to have teamed up with Ceva to create this new super-accessible app version of our audit tool. We've been really pleased to see uptake of the Practice Hygiene Self-Audit online, and hope more practice staff give the smartphone app a go.
"While we all know how important infection control is, sometimes it's the basics that get forgotten in a busy practice environment – but now, with our free audit app in your pocket, implementing good hygiene processes could not be easier, so there's no excuse!"
For more information about BMF, visit www.thebellamossfoundation.com or visit http://www.thebellamossfoundation.com/practice-hygiene-self-audit/ to complete the hygiene audit online.
The report, which was developed in consultation with BVA members, devolved branches, BVA specialist divisions and other stakeholders, outlines the essential role that the UK veterinary workforce plays in not only caring for animals, but in enabling trade, ensuring food hygiene and safety, and undertaking cutting-edge research.
Non-British EU veterinary surgeons are critical to the UK veterinary workforce. Around 50% of veterinary surgeons registering to practise in the UK each year come from overseas, with the vast majority of these coming from the rest of the EU. Yet one-fifth of vets are already reporting that it has become harder to recruit since the EU Referendum.
To secure the best possible outcomes for animal health and welfare, public health, and the veterinary profession, Brexit and the veterinary profession sets out 52 recommendations for the short, medium and long term, including calling on the next Government to:
BVA President Gudrun Ravetz said: "Vets provide the foundation for the UK’s work on animal health and welfare. Veterinary teams up and down the country support the UK’s 11 million pet-owning households; not a penny of the UK’s £13 billion agri-food industry could be realised without vets; and we are an integral part of the international scientific community, annually bringing in over £50 million for research and development projects.
"The veterinary profession is in a unique position from which to offer the next Government evidence-based policy recommendations to ensure animal health and welfare, public health and other standards are at the very least maintained as we exit the EU.
"We believe Brexit also presents us with opportunities, for example, to develop a strong, competitive food industry with full consumer confidence at home and abroad as well as to position the UK as a world leader in high animal welfare - and a strong veterinary workforce is vital in achieving this."
Brexit and the veterinary profession was developed and written by the BVA Brexit Working Group, under the chairmanship of Alick Simmons, former UK deputy Chief Veterinary Officer, and was agreed by BVA Council in April.
The report builds on BVA’s Brexit Principles, agreed by Council in September 2016, and covers seven areas of public policy: veterinary workforce, animal health, animal welfare, food hygiene and safety, veterinary medicines, research and development, and trade.
Two further sections of the report consider issues relating to devolution and to Northern Ireland’s unique position as the only part of the UK to share a land border with an EU member state.
With a snap General Election due in five weeks’ time, BVA has produced a 20-point manifesto of key recommendations covering both Brexit and wider policy issues, which has been sent to the main political parties’ manifesto-writing teams and to BVA’s Honorary Associates.
Brexit and the veterinary profession and the manifesto for the 2017 General Election are available at: www.bva.co.uk/brexit.
The findings will be published in a freely-available and independently-authored report.
Jane Balmain, Chief Operating Officer at Vets4Pets (pictured right), said: “The last 18 months have been indescribably tough for everyone, not least the veterinary practice teams. Soaring levels of pet ownership coupled with recruitment challenges have meant that an already-stretched profession has been almost brought to its knees.
"As a profession, you’ve always put pets first. But now it’s time to also concentrate on you - the vets, nurses and support teams that make up our beloved sector. We want to hear how you’re feeling and give you the power to help us make change.
“By launching this sector-wide survey, we’re kick-starting a vital conversation to protect the wellbeing of vet teams and the future of the profession. We believe that, by sharing experiences openly and honestly from all corners of the sector, we can come together to bring about the much-needed changes to ensure it remains an attractive, long-term career option.”
The survey, which runs until 16th November 2021, can be completed at www.projectlisten.co.uk. Respondents will remain anonymous and no data will be collected via the survey.
The company points to research which shows that half of all pets around the world are reported to be overweight1.
That, of course, places extra load on the joints.
The new diet has been formulated to help dogs lose weight whilst still getting optimal levels of nutrients.
To help with weight loss, Hill's says it has added ingredients which change overweight pets’ gene expression and activate the metabolism to burn excess body fat.
The diet also contains omega-3-rich fish oil to support joint mobility, antioxidants and vitamins to reduce inflammation and support the immune system, and glucosamine and chondroitin, the building blocks of joint cartilage.
The diet comes in four sizes, one for small and mini dogs (1.5kg), two for medium (2.5kg, 12kg), and one for large breeds (12kg).
Hillary Noyes, Hill’s Veterinary Affairs Manager, UK & Republic of Ireland, said: "Excessive weight can increase a dog’s chances of developing mobility issues which can have a hugely detrimental effect on the animal’s health and quality of life.
"Our new Science Plan Perfect Weight & Active Mobility is the perfect solution for those who want to help their best friend maintain a healthy weight and support joints at the same time. "
For more information, speak to your local Territory Manager or visit https://www.hillspet.co.uk/dog-food/sp-canine-adult-perfect-weight-and-active-mobility-medium-chicken-dry
Merial Animal Health has launched Locatim, an oral antibody supplement to aid calf scour management.
Manufactured from the colostrum of high health status cows that are hyper-immunised against E.coli, rotavirus and coronavirus, Locatim contains a guaranteed concentration of specific antibodies to enterotoxic E.coli F5 (K99).
Merial says that when given alongside the dam’s colostrum, Locatim provides enhanced protection against infection, reducing calf mortality due to neonatal diarrhoea caused by E.coli F5 (K99), and helping to protect calf health during the critical rearing period.
According to the company, a single 60ml oral dose provides direct transfer of these specific antibodies, giving local protection within the digestive tract and systemic protection following absorption through the intestinal mucosa.
For optimal absorption Locatim should be administered during the first four hours of life, but it can be given up to 12 hours after birth.
Locatim can be administered to every calf born during an outbreak of scour; at times of peak calving, when environmental challenge is high; or it can be used to enhance protection in individual calves identified as being at high risk of disease due to factors such as dystocia, weakness or the poor quality of the dam’s colostrum.
For information on purchasing stock contact your local Merial Animal Health territory manager.
The initiative is part of the company’s Keeping Britain’s Horses Healthy (KBHH), and provides a way that practices can work with their Equine Account Manager to help horse owners bring their vaccination status up-to-date for equine influenza and tetanus.
Peter Young, Equine Business Manager said: "We’re aware how easy it is for owners to get behind on their horses’ vaccinations but with over half of the UK horse population not protected against equine ‘flu, vets need all the help they can get to improve vaccination rates in their area. We should be aiming for at least 70% ‘flu vaccination rates to ensure our horses benefit from herd immunity so we’re offering vets some practical support to help them improve the situation."
The KBHH vaccination amnesty will be offering a reduced cost option for horses needing to restart a primary course, encouraging horse owners to add their horse to the population already protected.
Horses will need to be over 12 months of age and be unvaccinated or have lapsed from their normal booster vaccination for more than three months.
MSD is also providing a range of online and printed material for vets to help promote the amnesty and ensure their clients take action, including materials that practices can post on Facebook to raise awareness of the symptoms of equine ‘flu and the importance of vaccination.
For further details contact your MSD Animal Health equine representative.
Burgess Pet Care, which organises the event, is encouraging vets and nurses to watch the webinars to ensure they’re aware of the key information concerning this year’s Rabbit Awareness Week, Protect and Prevent campaign, taking place from the 1st to the 9th June.
The webinars are hosted by Dr Richard Saunders BSc (Hons) BVSc FRSB CBiol DZooMed (Mammalian) DipECZM(ZHM) MRCVS, veterinary adviser to the Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund (RWAF).
Richard said: "These webinars provide information across all of the key areas relating to preventative healthcare in rabbits. There is a large number of health issues facing rabbits but thankfully many of these can be prevented. Vets play an incredibly important role in ensuring rabbit owners have all the information they need to correctly care for their pets but unfortunately there is still a lack of awareness and understanding around many basic needs such as diet, husbandry and the importance of vaccinations to protect against dangerous diseases.
"The webinars have been designed to be accessible and engaging to all vets and nurses, regardless of their experience level. We’re urging vets and nurses to watch all three seminars so they’re able to provide the best possible advice to rabbit owners seeking advice on their pets in advance of Rabbit Awareness Week."
To watch the webinars and learn more about this year’s Rabbit Awareness Week campaign, visit: www.rabbitawarenessweek.co.uk, where you can also request a free vet pack to help promote any activity you're planning for RAW.
The British Veterinary Association has welcomed the tightening up of sales of veterinary medicines on the internet but has expressed disappointment that the advertising of antimicrobials to farmers will continue.
The Veterinary Medicines Directorate has today published its response to the public consultation on the Veterinary Medicines Regulations, which are updated every year.
The new Regulations, which come into force in April 2011, introduce new controls on internet pharmacies meaning that only approved websites will be legally allowed to dispense and supply veterinary medicines. The controls will come into force in April 2012 and the BVA supports the use of a logo on approved websites to help consumers buy medicines from reputable sources.
The BVA has previously expressed concern that pet owners could inadvertently buy counterfeit veterinary medicines online and urges veterinary clients to seek advice from their vet and only buy from UK-based companies.
Harvey Locke, President of the BVA, said: "Without proper regulation online pharmacies could be sourcing drugs from overseas and selling counterfeit medicines that look genuine to unsuspecting pet owners. These medicines are placebos at best and dangerous at worst.
"We therefore welcome the VMD's decision to clampdown on irresponsible online retailers and provide a clear logo for approved websites that will give pet owners confidence.
"We have also asked the VMD to put a stop to the increasing problem of prescription fraud and we hope the tighter regulation announced today will be a step towards achieving that aim.
"However, we would urge all pet owners to continue talking to their vet about sourcing medicines from the internet to make sure the right drugs are bought and administered correctly."
In light of increasing concerns about the growth of antimicrobial resistance the VMD's consultation canvassed views on restricting the advertising of antimicrobials to farmers. The BVA says it supported a ban on advertising as a sensible approach to the responsible use of antimicrobials, and is disappointed that the VMD has decided not to go ahead with it. Mr Locke said: "New antimicrobials are heavily advertised by pharmaceutical companies to vets and farmers so it is vital that the message of responsible use is not lost.
"Antimicrobial resistance is a serious issue for both animal and human health and we are disappointed that the VMD is not restricting the advertising of these products to farmers. The pharmaceutical companies must now undertake to advertise responsibly.
"Ultimately, it is the veterinary surgeon who will make the decision on which veterinary products to use and vets and farmers should work together to ensure antimicrobials are used prudently and responsibly."