As part of its new strategy the RSPCA has also announced it is exploring the transfer of its animal welfare prosecuting role to the CPS to focus on its frontline work rescuing and caring for animals and investigating cruelty.
The ambitions announced by the charity are:
RSPCA Chief Vet Caroline Allen said: "Our grassroots and frontline work will still be at the heart of what we do - as it has been since the RSPCA’s inception almost 200 years ago.
"The RSPCA recognises that we simply cannot perform our vital frontline work without the support and expertise of vets and vet nurses across the country. As part of this strategy we are aiming to strengthen these relationships and improve understanding and communication between the RSPCA and the veterinary professions.
"Vets and RVNs - both in private practice and within the RSPCA - play many critical roles; including providing veterinary care to abused animals rescued by the RSPCA, supporting our animal centres and our prosecution work, as well as reporting abused and neglected animals to us.
"We know that vets and RVNs want to have a better understanding of what they can expect from us and we will provide more clarity around what we are asking of vets when they treat our animals. We will continue to draw on and support the strong and growing evidence base in the profession in areas such as shelter medicine, veterinary forensics, clinical behaviour and accessible care.
"We know that the veterinary sector has had a tough year and we are very grateful for your continuing support of our work during the many challenges of the pandemic."
Commenting on the decision to look at transferring its animal welfare prosecuting role to the CPS, RSPCA chief executive Chris Sherwood said: “We are proud of our history bringing animal abusers to justice and for many years we have been the right people to do this vital work. However, the world has changed and we have to change with it.
"We launched our new strategy this week and a key part of this is working in partnership with other organisations with the responsibility and expertise to support our work.
"The CPS is the statutory body with responsibility for taking prosecutions in England and Wales and by working more closely in partnership with them, we can free up resources to focus on our unique frontline investigation, rescue and care work, where we can make the most difference to animals.
"However, we reserve the right to take a prosecution in future if we feel that justice is not being done for animals."
The charity is also seeking statutory powers under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 for its frontline animal rescuers.
This means that they would be able to reach animals faster, allowing them to access private land and outbuildings, although crucially not homes, if there was a reasonable expectation that an animal was suffering.
These changes would bring England and Wales in line with Scotland and Ireland where the SPCAs have statutory powers and pass their cases to the state prosecutor.
To find out more and download the RSPCA’s new strategy, visit: https://www.rspca.org.uk/whatwedo/strategy
Dexafast is an injectable corticosteroid with potent, medium-acting, anti-inflammatory activity, indicated for the treatment of a range of inflammatory and allergic conditions in both small and large animal clinical practice.
Dr John Henderson, Large Animal Product Manager at Forte Healthcare Ltd said: "Dexafast 2mg/ml is an excellent addition to our range. This formulation of dexamethasone is used across many species on a daily basis, and Dexafast 2mg/ml gives vets a high-quality presentation of a staple medicine."
Dexafast is available in a 50ml bottle.
For further information, contact your local Forte Territory Manager, visit: https://www.fortehealthcare.ie/product/dexafast-uk-only, or email: enquiries@fortehealthcare.com.
The company has been gathering information on the health, wellbeing and life expectancy of hundreds of thousands of dogs since 2014.
Sean McCormack (pictured right), Head Vet at tails.com, said: “As a vet nurse in practice, you gain an understanding of general animal issues and trends. But what this data can do is look over hundreds of thousands of dogs, unpick all of the nutritional, breed and age-related data we’ve collected over time, and then provide an insight-rich window into the best possible way to care for our dogs.
“We’re really just scratching the surface in terms of what we have at our disposal. There’s real potential for Data Labs to fundamentally change the way that we view dog nutrition and dog health going forwards.”
According to the company, the database has already revealed that:
Lorna Brightmore, Lead Data Scientist at tails.com, said: "Even at this early stage, we are finding strong associations between a number of health factors and longevity and our conclusions will only become stronger over time.”
The first major milestone of Data Labs will be the publication of tails.com’s first peer-reviewed scientific paper.
The paper will detail the effects of body weight, body condition, gender and neutering on the longevity and health of dogs, with further scientific papers planned for publication in the coming months and years.
For more information, visit www.tails.com/gb/data-labs/.
The Veterinary Nurses Council of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) is hosting a seminar on 23 June 2011 to celebrate 50 years of veterinary nursing.
The Golden Jubilee will be marked with a series of thought-provoking talks: looking back to celebrate what veterinary nursing has achieved during its first half century, and taking a step forward to consider where it goes next.
Speakers will include pioneers from the early days of veterinary nursing, some of the trailblazers of today's profession and those involved with veterinary nursing overseas. There will be lots of opportunities to ask questions, put forward views and get involved.
The event, which will be held at the RCVS in Westminster, will start with registration at 10am and close around 4.30pm.
A small number of free tickets remain available for veterinary nurses and others involved with the development of the profession. Those interested should contact Fiona Harcourt, on 020 7202 0773 or f.harcourt@rcvs.org.uk, as soon as possible.
More information about other activities to celebrate the Veterinary Nursing Golden Jubilee can be found at www.rcvs.org.uk/VNat50.
Hannah was working at Ryedale Vets in North Yorkshire when she got a call to tell her that Betty had been hit by a car after running off.
Hannah said: “My mother-in-law said she was dead, but she suddenly sat up when she arrived here at the practice in the back of a pick-up.
"I couldn’t believe she was alive, but her jugular was severed and there was blood everywhere as our team carried her in.
“The injuries were so horrendous you couldn’t even tell it was a dog’s face.
"I’ve never seen anything like it, and I hope I never will again.”
Betty had sustained multiple injuries, including severe facial trauma and fractured toes.
Luckily, Betty was swiftly transferred to the appropriately named Swift Referrals in Leeds, where she was stabilised and treated for the first 48 hours by the medicine team.
Apparently, the medical team had to deal with shock, low blood pressure, high heart rate, high respiratory rate, pain, anaemia, high Glasgow coma scale, high lactate, metabolic acidosis and prolonged clotting times before the surgical team could even get involved.
Jonathan Bell, an RCVS Specialist in Small Animal Surgery at the IVC-owned referral centre said: “A CT scan revealed she had fractured the wing of the atlas.
“There were also fractures to the zygomatic arch and the zygomatic process of the temporomandibular joint, significant haemorrhage and a large open facial wound with extensive soft tissue damage.
“She had a mediastinal bleed and two fractured toes, which healed with a splint.
“Intensive open wound management was required to reach a point where the wound could be safely closed.
"This entailed repeated flushing, cleaning and dressing of the wound.
"Several surgeries were required to achieve wound closure.”
Despite the reconstructive procedures, there was a small area on her cheek that wouldn’t heal fully.
She had a discharging sinus and had developed an ear infection which was not settling with antibiotics.
Jonathan added: “We did a repeat CT scan which showed that there had been a penetrating injury to the cartilage of the ear canal and a fistula had formed.
“I performed a total ear canal ablation, and we then continued to monitor her condition carefully.
“Following the TECA, the discharging sinus persisted, necessitating further surgery.
"The sinus tract was dissected down to its origin at the temporomandibular joint, where several pieces of necrotic bone were retrieved.
"Following this final surgery, the sinus resolved.
“It was a major trauma. We are just delighted we were able to help, and she has come through it all so well.”
Following the surgeries at the end of last year, Betty has continued to make good progress.
Hannah said: “I was sure she wasn’t going to live and had made my plans about what I was going to do.
“Everyone is amazed she fought her way through, and we all think she’s a little miracle.
"She has such an appetite for life.
“Looking at her now, you’d never know anything had happened to her and I can’t thank my team and everyone at Swift Referrals for saving her.”
The survey asks EU nationals about their experience of practising in the UK since the referendum and will seek to find out what their career expectations and aspirations are now.
The survey will also ask how they feel that the RCVS has supported EU vet nurses to practise in the UK since the transition period ended on 31 December 2020.
The survey is being conducted by the Institute for Employment Studies (IES), an independent, not-for-profit research institute.
Respondents are encouraged to be as open as possible, as individual responses will not be seen by the RCVS and all survey data will be analysed independently by IES.
Lizzie Lockett, RCVS CEO said: “We are hearing anecdotal feedback from EU veterinary professionals about the impact of the EU Exit on their working lives, but it is important for us to have direct feedback as evidence for our recommendations.
"I would encourage everyone who receives the survey to share their thoughts with us, as the feedback we receive from this and the previous surveys, will help us to plan what training, resources and support the professions need from us post-EU Exit."
Everyone eligible to take part in the survey is being sent an email today from Dilys Robinson at the IES, with a link to the survey.
You have until Tuesday 16th November 2021 to complete it.
If you have any questions, contact Sara.Butcher@employment-studies.co.uk.
Dechra says Finilac inhibits prolactin secretion by the pituitary gland and therefore inhibits all prolactin-dependent processes, meaning it can also suppress lactation in bitches and queens.
Finilac, which contains cabergoline (50 microgram/ml), is presented as a liquid which can be given orally or in food. It is available in 3 ml, 10 ml, 15 ml and 25 ml bottles with 1 ml and 2.5 ml syringes included in every pack to ensure accurate dosing.
The dosage is 0.1 ml/kg bodyweight once daily for four to six consecutive days, depending on the severity of the clinical condition. Maximum inhibition of prolactin secretion is achieved after four to eight hours.
Dechra Brand Manager Carol Morgan said: "A false pregnancy can be a distressing condition for an animal and its owner so Finilac offers a fresh approach for cases with more severe symptoms that require veterinary intervention.
"It is easy to administer either directly into the mouth or by mixing with food and it doesn’t need to be transported or stored in the refrigerator, making it ideal as an ‘at home’ treatment that can be administered by owners."
The association has also compiled free access special collection on backyard poultry in the BSAVA library, including A nursing guide to back yard chickens, which is available until the end of December 2019.
The BSAVA's Q&As on avian influenza in backyard poultry are:
What is avian influenza?Avian influenza (AI) is highly contagious viral disease that affects both domestic and wild birds. AI viruses are usually classified into two categories: low pathogenicity avian influenza (LPAI), which typically causes no or very few clinical signs in poultry, and high pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) which typically causes high mortality rates in poultry1.
What are the clinical signs of disease in poultry?The type and severity of clinical signs displayed will be dependent upon the strain of the virus and the species affected; some species such as ducks and geese may show few clinical signs2.
How is the disease spread?Wild bird species are the natural host and reservoir for all types of avian influenza, naturally carrying the virus in their respiratory and intestinal tracts, commonly without developing signs of the disease1,3. The virus is predominantly spread via body secretions, both directly and indirectly2. Migratory birds (predominantly waterfowl and gulls) can spread the disease over a wide geographical area3.
Why is the winter a higher risk period for avian influenza? The UK is at increased risk of avian influenza from migrating birds during winter2. Furthermore, avian influenza viruses are able to survive for prolonged periods of time in the environment, particularly in low temperatures4.
How can I prevent my birds from contracting avian influenza?All keepers of poultry should ensure that they uphold good levels of biosecurity to prevent disease entering their flock. This includes:
maintaining good levels of hygiene and regularly disinfecting hard surfaces;
changing shoes before entering/leaving to avoid transferring faeces in/out of the poultry enclosure;
minimizing contact with wildlife by humanely controlling rodents and deterring wild birds. Contact with wild birds can be minimized by placing food and water in an enclosed area such as the coop, and preventing poultry from accessing ponds/standing water frequented by wild bird populations, for example by erecting temporary fencing;
where possible, keeping birds of different poultry species separate (e.g. ducks and geese should be separate from chickens).
Whilst it is important that all backyard keepers maintain good levels of biosecurity, it is particularly prudent for keepers in areas deemed at higher risk of an incursion of avian influenza. In Great Britain, a number of High Risk Areas (HRAs) have been identified based upon previous experience, scientific expertise and veterinary opinion, and are predominantly areas where large numbers of migratory wild birds gather. To find out whether you are in a HRA, use the interactive map.
What should I do if I suspect avian influenza?Avian influenza is a notifiable disease. If it is suspected, it must be reported immediately:
In England, contact the Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200 301
In Wales, contact your local Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) office on 0300 303 8268
In Scotland, contact your local Field Services Office
For keepers in Northern Ireland, contact your local DVO.
References
Designed to be used as a tertiary cohesive layer, the Rapz Eazy Tear Natural World bandages, which are available in 5cm, 7.5cm and 10cm widths, can be torn without the need for scissors.
They are suitable for both large and small animals and Millpledge says they offer optimal protection and support for tendons and ligaments.
As part of the launch, Millpledge has pledged a total donation of £12,000 to Wildlife Vets International (WVI), a British charity that provides veterinary support to international wildlife and conservation projects.
Meryl Lang, Sales Manager at Millpledge, said: “Supporting conservation is an integral part of our vision for Rapz Easy Tear Natural World.
"With increasing threats faced by many species, from habitat loss and human conflicts to poaching and plastic pollution, more animals than ever are being classified as critically endangered.
"It’s fantastic to be able to contribute to such an important cause.”
For ore infornation, email enquiries@millpledge.com
The 2-day course, which includes both theory and practical sessions, will be taught by Sarah Ramsden RVN (pictured right), aka 'The Dental Nurse' on social media, at IM3's Advanced Centre for Education near Dublin on the 8th and 9th September 2021.
The course will cover all the basic aspects of veterinary dentistry including oral examination and charting, dental radiography, local anaesthetic techniques, nurse consults and maintenance of dental equipment..
The cost of the course is £430 and there's a 15% discount for BVDA members (so if you're interested in the course, then joining the BVDA is a bit of a no-brainer).
To register, visit: https://www.bvda.co.uk/education/courses/essential-dentistry-for-vet-nurses, or email Rob Davis (BVDA Education Officer) at davis4ginger@yahoo.co.uk for further information.
The BVA Animal Welfare Foundation (BVA AWF) in conjunction with the Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS) has announced the launch of an update of its popular Pets and Poisons - Keeping Your Animals Safe leaflet, first produced in 2004. Based on information compiled by the VPIS, the leaflet provides a valuable and easy reference guide for owners on preventing poisoning in the home, in the garden or in open spaces along with advice on what to do if you think your animal has been poisoned. Veterinary practices can obtain batches of 50 leaflets for the waiting room, free of charge (although a donation to AWF is encouraged) directly from the BVA agents Ten Alps on 020 7878 2307 or Louise.walpole@tenalpspublishing.com
The Committee heard that Mr Dingemanse had one conviction relating to four separate offences committed in 2019 of making indecent photographs of a child Category A, B and C and possession of 22 extreme pornographic images that were grossly offensive.
He had been sentenced at Oxford Crown Court to eight months’ imprisonment, suspended for 24 months, directed to sign the sex offenders register for 10 years and fined £420 for prosecution costs and £140 victim surcharge.
The Committee were presented with evidence taken from the transcripts of Dr Dingemanse’s Crown Court sentencing hearing.
The transcript outlined that Dr Dingemanse used an online messaging service to engage in conversations about child sexual abuse under a pseudonym. According to Wales Online, the conversations related to children as young as four.
His IP address was traced and he was arrested on suspicion of possessing indecent images of children.
Counsel for the College submitted to the Disciplinary Committee that the nature of circumstances of the offences rendered Dr Dingemanse unfit to practise as a veterinary surgeon.
In its decision relating to Dr Dingemanse’s fitness to practise, the Committee described Dr Dingemanse’s behaviour which led to the conviction as “inexplicable” and “abhorrent”, and that his possession of the images of children and animals was “disgraceful conduct of the most grievous and reprehensible kind.”
The Committee did not consider that there were any mitigating factors in the case, but did consider there to be several aggravating factors including: actual (albeit indirect) injury to an animal or child; the risk of harm to an animal or child; lack of integrity for a regulated professional to have behaved in such a way; premeditated conduct; and, that the offences involved vulnerable children and animals.
Cerys Jones, chairing the Committee and speaking on its behalf, added: “Dr Dingemanse’s conduct was [also] liable to have a seriously detrimental effect on the reputation of the profession and to undermine public confidence in the profession.
"The fact that he was a veterinary surgeon was made clear at the Crown Court hearing.
"The Committee considered that members of the public would rightly be appalled that a registered veterinary surgeon had committed offences of this nature.”
When deciding on the appropriate sanction, the Committee took into account all of the evidence, including Dr Dingemanse’s expression of remorse and steps towards rehabilitation.
Mr Dingemanse's solicitor invited the Committee to consider suspending Dr Dingemanse from the Register as his client’s sanction, but the Committee did not feel that this was appropriate.
Cerys Jones added: “The Committee considered that suspending Dr Dingemanse’s registration would not be sufficient to maintain confidence in the profession and that therefore, for public interest reasons, as well as animal protection, a suspension would not be sufficient.
"Committee was of the view that the nature and seriousness of Dr Dingemanse’s behaviour, which led to the conviction, was fundamentally incompatible with being registered as a veterinary surgeon and that all of the above matters listed were applicable in this case.
"The Committee decided that the only appropriate and proportionate sanction in this case was removal from the Register.”
Dr Dingemanse has 28 days from being notified of his removal from the Register to lodge an appeal with the Privy Council.
The Committee’s full findings can be viewed at www.rcvs.org.uk/disciplinary
MSD's push is being driven by the rising number of cases of Leishmaniasis cases in the UK, including the first report earlier this year of dog-to-dog transmission of the disease.
Caroline Darouj, Product Manager at MSD Animal Health said: "Whilst accurate statistics on the number of cases seen in UK practices are not available, the VMD has reported an annual increase in the number of leishmaniasis treatments imported since records started in 2006.
"Based on applications for Special Import Certificates for Milteforan and Glucantime, there were 27 times as many cases treated in 2018 (439) compared to 2006 (16)*.
"Leishmaniasis is proving to be a significant threat to travelling dogs, a situation that has been widely reported in the vet press, so LetiFend will offer veterinary practices and dog owners throughout the UK reassurance. A single dose primary course given four weeks before travel makes it ideal for non-regular travelers."
Letifend is indicated to reduce the risk of developing active infection and/or clinical disease after exposure to L. infantum from 28 days post vaccination1,2. It offers protection for 365 days after a single annual dose. The company says it has excellent tolerability shown in a wide range of breeds and ages, and in field trials in areas at high risk of infection had an efficacy rate of 72%4.
LetiFend is a non-adjuvanted vaccine which MSD says ensures a targeted immune response with a high level of safety.
MSD says a dog vaccinated with LetiFend is at 9.8 times less risk of presenting clinical signs, at 3.5 times less risk of presenting parasites, and thus at 5 times less risk of developing clinical leishmaniasis1. It can be applied from six months of age via subcutaneous administration.
For further information contact your MSD Animal Health account manager.
*Information from VMD following a Freedom of Information Act request.
The popular novels, which were written by real life Yorkshire vet Alf Wight, depicted Herriot - and others like him - as working all hours, doing favours for clients free of charge and being paid in cake, all with scarcely a mention of how he made ends meet.
This misguided image still informs expectations of the profession today, they say.
Henry Tremaine, a specialist in equine surgery and dentistry, said: "The nostalgic thing is of this romantic life driving around in an old car being appreciated by the clients - but actually the reality is working very long hours in stressful conditions with poor reward, being poorly equipped, and with unappreciative clients.
"That’s being consigned to history - gradually - but I think the public still cling onto the notion that that’s what a vet’s life is."
His comments echo those of BSAVA President, Sue Patterson, who earlier this year blamed James Herriot for the assumption among some clients that vets' love of animals would make them prepared to work for nothing: "I think James Herriot is to blame because we’re all supposed to love animals and work for nothing, but we all run businesses."
At the BEVA Congress earlier this month, equine vet and congress speaker, Ben Mayes, who graduated in 1992, also criticised the Herriot legacy for making it harder for vets to achieve a good work-life balance: "We’ve been left in that Herriot mentality, and it was a nightmare."
This week's edition of the Vet Record has six case studies of veterinary surgeons who have pursued careers through non traditional routes, including Peter Harlech Jones, Daniella Dos Santos, (pictured right), and Enrique Vega.
Daniella Dos Santos said: "James Herriot continues to inspire vets and future vets, and we know from our own research that he along with other vets in literature is still very popular across the profession.
"At the same time, the profession is very different to what was depicted in the age of Herriot and it continues to undergo significant change. We need to make sure that there is a diverse range of role models in place that reflect modern demographics and modern ways of working while continuing to inspire future generations of vets."
Adele Waters, Vet Record editor, added: "James Herriot may be a popular cultural figure, but he is 70 years out of date and we should retire him gracefully. With 60 per cent of UK vets being female, Herriot is no longer representative of the modern working vet, and today we should really be talking about Jane Herriot instead."
The Blue Cross is calling for nominations from veterinary practices across the country for its Veterinary Nurse of the Year Award 2008.
The annual award is presented at the British Veterinary Nursing Association (BVNA) Annual Congress. It recognises the contribution of veterinary nurses in educating the public about responsible pet ownership and the welfare of pets in the community.
This year's Congress will take place on 10-12 October at the Kettering Conference Centre, Northamptonshire.
Last year's award was won by Anna Hatchett for her outstanding contribution to animal welfare, both within her veterinary practice and among the local community in Whitby, North Yorkshire.
Anna Hatchett was nominated by two vets, Edward Gillams and Kate Loomes, who previously worked with her at The Beck Veterinary Practice in Whitby. Ms Loomes commented: "Anna is an exceptionally dedicated and talented nurse. She has an amazing memory for clients and takes time to enquire as to how their individual pets are. She doesn't hesitate to take in and care for stray and lost animals and works well over her working hours when animals are in need of help."
Nominations for this year's award can be made by completing the nomination form on The Blue Cross website at: www.bluecross.org.uk/BVNA2008or by contacting Sally Leathem on 01993 82557.
The deadline for nominations is Friday 15 August 2008.
Merseyside police are urging members of the public and veterinary practices to exercise caution following the theft of some prescription veterinary medicines from a commercial vehicle in Prescot.
The missing medication is around ten 100ml bottles of Micotil, a prescription-only veterinary medicine used to treat respiratory problems in cattle and sheep, but which could prove fatal if taken by humans.
The drug, which was packaged in cardboard with Spanish labelling, was stolen from a lorry that had parked last Thursday night on an industrial park at Caddick Road, Prescot, prior to making a delivery to a company in Speke.
PC Dufton-Kelly of Huyton Police Station's Crime Management Unit said: "We believe this was simply an opportunist theft, which has left the offenders with a rather unusual product on their hands, with little or no opportunity for gain.
"We would like to alert the veterinary industry, particularly in the Merseyside area, in case the goods are handed in or offered for sale. The drugs could present a danger to the public if they fall into the wrong hands."
Anyone who finds the drugs is asked to contact their nearest police station via 0151 709 6010. Anyone with information about the theft can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. All information provided will be treated in strict confidence.
The course helps veterinary practices manage their dispensaries with up-to-date information on medicines regulations. It covers the main aspects of dispensing including an overview and update on legislation, using the cascade and the storing and disposal of medicines. There will also be sessions covering controlled drugs, dispensing mishaps and what to expect from an inspection.
Tutors Pam Mosedale, Donal Murphy, Michael Stanford, Mike Jessop and John Millward will deliver lectures via webinars throughout the day, which ends with a live streamed interactive Q+A session.
The course is suitable for vets, vet nurses and other staff who deal with the dispensing of medicines and the pharmacy.
Attendees will have access to supporting resources for approximately two weeks after the course, including electronic course notes and lectures from the day and an active discussion forum.
The Association says course meets the RCVS practice standards veterinary hospital dispensing course requirements and is ideal for the new PSS Medicines Award CPD requirement.
It is also AMTRA accredited and carries 43 AMTRA CPD points.
Attendance for the day is compulsory and an attendance register will be taken for the Live Q&A session.
Course organiser Pam Mosedale said: “We are very excited to be able to deliver the BSAVA Dispensing Course online and still allow for interaction between speakers and delegates in the live session. With Practice Standards and VMD visits restarting, it is fantastic that we are still able to support practices in these difficult times by ensuring they are complying with the Veterinary Medicines Regulations.”
The course costs £150.00 (incl. VAT) for BSAVA members and £225.00 (incl. VAT) for non-members. To book visit https://www.bsava.com/Education/CPD/Event-Detail/dateId/2099
Dechra says the combination of triamcinolone acetonide and salicylic acid works to provide effective symptomatic treatment, particularly for certain types of otitis externa that are not caused by a bacterial or yeast infection, such as flare ups caused by allergies.
Dechra Brand Manager Carol Morgan said: "Otitis externa is a condition that causes inflammation of the external ear canal and it can have a debilitating effect on cats and dogs.
"Recicort is a moderately potent steroid with an anti-inflammatory and vasoconstrictive action that works by suppressing the inflammatory response and the symptoms of various disorders often associated with itching. It doesn’t contain an antibiotic or antimycotic so it won’t contribute to antimicrobial resistance either.
"This prescription-only treatment is an important addition to our dermatology portfolio for veterinary professionals who are looking for a suite of highly effective and cost effective treatments."
Recicort is available in 20 ml bottles. For more information visit: www.dechra.co.uk
When you post a job advert, or a shout for assistance on VetNurse Jobs, it is emailed to subscribers immediately and fed out onto other social networks. You can further extend the reach of your post by sharing it yourself and (with "Share and reward") encouraging other members of your team to do likewise.
I have taken the decision to drop the charge for advertising because it seems very clear now that we all face a very grim few months ahead, and it has never been more important that we all pull together and support each other, both personally and in business.
Of course, removing the charge for advertising for help on VetNurse.co.uk and VetSurgeon.org is not, in and of itself, going to save anyone from going under, but I hope perhaps other veterinary suppliers might follow my lead and consider dropping their prices until such time as everyone is back on their feet.
Over the last few months, VetNurse.co.uk has been undergoing a major upgrade, and we're now within two weeks relaunching the website. When we do, I have a number of other ideas in the pipeline, all designed to help bring the profession together and support each other, which I will announce shortly thereafter.
Meantime, take care everyone.
The new structure means that all 99 members of Pennard Vets' team, who work across six sites in Kent, are now practice owners and shareholders in the business. This, says the practice, will protect it's independence and 125-year-old core values.
The group celebrated the completion of the employee ownership trust earlier this month at a summer family BBQ and party held at Hadlow Manor Hotel in Tonbridge.
Pennard Vets’ three previous sole directors, comprising of Matthew Flann, Caroline Collins and Andy Green, all worked as vets at the practice for several years before becoming part of the leadership team in 2007, and the trio will all continue to work in the business following the EOT transfer.
Andy said: “Pennard Vets is a special practice that has been a part of the fabric of the local community for 125 years and we want to be here in another 125 years. At a time when many other practices are being taken over by large corporate organisations, we knew that the EOT was the right way to guarantee an independent future for our 99 team members. Although we received plenty of interest and offers from the corporates, it was important to remain true to ourselves and our values.
“It is increasingly difficult for vets to buy into independent practices and the traditional partner progression model no longer works, so after exploring various possibilities, it became clear that the EOT option was ideal for us and protects everything that we stand for.
“Crucially, it also means Pennard Vets won’t be taken over and gives everyone in our team both autonomy and a voice, as well as safeguarding our fundamental core values that are built around compassion, client focus and continually improving everything we do. There’s no doubt this will further enhance the high standard of care that our clients enjoy and is also helping us to grow our team and attract new talent.
“As we expand our practice across Kent, we’re recruiting both vets and nurses. Every new team member becomes an employee owner and can influence the decisions we make for the future of our practice. Our people are helping to shape our employee benefits scheme and influence how we reinvest profits in a forward-thinking practice, that will remain independent. This is proving very attractive to new members of the team, which makes it a really exciting and rewarding time for us.”
Newly appointed vet, Emma Ball, has become one of the first new recruits to benefit from the EOT model after joining the group’s Sevenoaks practice. Emma said: “I initially did work experience at Pennard Vets eight years ago and immediately felt like part of the family. Everyone took the time to make sure I learnt as much as possible, so when I was offered this role, it was an easy decision for me.
“Coming back to the practice has been a fantastic experience and to benefit from the EOT is the icing on the cake. Although lots of people dream of owning their own practice, it’s a very difficult thing to achieve. However, now we’re all stakeholders in the business, it has made our team spirit even stronger and means everyone makes even more effort to make Pennard Vets successful and ensure clients always enjoy the very best level of care.”
The new platform will be officially launched in January 2020, and will support the new approach to CPD with requires veterinary nurses to reflect on the outcomes and / or impact of the CPD they have undertaken on them or their practice.
1CPD will replace the existing Professional Development Record (PDR) after which all content from the PDR will automatically be transferred to 1CPD.
In addition, College staff will be on hand to share information and answer questions about the upcoming CPD policy changes from January 2020, including the shift to an annual hourly CPD requirement and the introduction of outcomes-focused CPD.
The outcomes–focused approach to CPD is being introduced on a voluntary basis over two years, with this becoming mandatory in 2022.
Dr Linda Prescott-Clements, RCVS Director of Education, said: "We are excited to be in a position to share the first iteration of our new CPD recording platform with BVNA Congress delegates and to get their vital feedback on its functionality. We are also particularly interested in receiving feedback on the platform, and are currently encouraging vets and VNs to get involved with our user-testing phase.
"With the first stage of the development of the CPD recording platform due to finish in October, we are looking for a cohort of both veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses who can spend a few months using and providing feedback on the new platform. We will then consider their feedback carefully in order to improve the recording platform ready for launch in January 2020."
Veterinary nurses who want to volunteer to take part in the testing for the CPD app, as well as CPD providers who want to discuss the CPD policy plans, should contact Jenny Soreskog-Turp, RCVS CPD Officer, on cpd@rcvs.org.uk or 020 7202 0701.
Congress delegates will also be able to chat to VN Council members and RCVS staff about the College’s proposals for a wide-ranging review of its guidance on ‘under care’ and 24/7 emergency cover, and how best to get involved in the initial call for evidence, planned for later this year.
Further details on the review will be published at www.rcvs.org.uk/undercare as they become available.
There are only 11 other practices in the UK that hold the Gold Standard Award for rabbit care. To achieve it, Valley Veterinary Hospital had to demonstrate excellence across all aspects of rabbit care, including pain relief and management, dentistry and airway management.
The practice was commended on its top-quality facilities, including a dedicated exotic department with separate waiting and consulting rooms, as well as kennel areas for rabbits to keep them away from larger animals, relieving them of stress and anxiety.
Valley Veterinary Hospital exotic animals specialist, Tariq Abou-Zahr, BVSc CertAVP(ZooMed) MRCVS (pictured right), said: "I am absolutely delighted that Valley Veterinary Hospital has met the grade to achieve the first RWAF gold status in Wales. I believe that rabbits are just as deserving of excellent veterinary care as cats and dogs, and I am so pleased that I work in a veterinary hospital where we have the facilities to provide this standard of care.
"Rabbit medicine has always been an interest of mine, and I’m very grateful to Vet Partners for investing in such great facilities and to RWAF for considering our application and granting us Gold status."
Applications for the Awards are assessed by Dr Richard Saunders BSc Hons MSB CBiol DZooMed MRCVS, one of the UK’s leading specialists on rabbit welfare and veterinary advisor for RWAF.
Dr Richard Saunders BSc Hons MSB CBiol DZooMed MRCVS, who assesses applications on behalf of the RWAF, said:
"As a dedicated rabbit charity aiming to improve the wellbeing and welfare of domestic rabbits throughout the UK, our requirements to meet a Gold standard in rabbit care are very high. Valley Vets has met all of these standards and I’m delighted to reward a practice in Wales who have demonstrated that they are as passionate about rabbit care as we are.”
The RWAF has published a list of award-winning rabbit-savvy practices on its website which can be viewed here: https://rabbitwelfare.co.uk/rabbit-care-advice/rabbit-friendly-vets/rabbit-friendly-vet-list/
Any veterinary practices interested in applying for the Rabbit Friendly Vet List should visit https://rabbitwelfare.co.uk/rabbit-vets/vet-membership/
According to the company, Prinocate contains the same combination of Moxidectin and Imidacloprid as Advocate. In dogs it is licensed for the treatment and prevention of Angiostrongylus vasorum (lungworm); for the treatment and prevention of fleas and also for lice, mites, heartworm and roundworms. In cats, the licence covers fleas, mites, roundworm and heart worm.
Prinocate is offered in six presentations to suit all weight ranges and in packs of three pipettes, to suit most pet health plans. Each pipette is individually wrapped for ease of use and dispensing.
Krka’s National Veterinary Sales Manager Will Ridgway, said: "Prinocate offers practices and pet owners the reassurance of tried and trusted actives moxidectin and imidacloprid, the reliability of spot-on delivery and the affordability that Krka customers have come to expect.
"Its launch, hot on the heels of Selehold, and added to our wormers Milprazon and Anthelmin, means that Krka now offers an attractive, reliable and affordable parasite control range and, during its launch period, we are offering one free pack of Prinocate for every five purchased.”
He added: “As Angiostrongylus vasorum is one of the main parasites of concern in practice today, to mark the launch of Prinocate, we’re delighted to be offering a free webinar with Ian Wright during which he will explore how A.vasorum has managed to spread so successfully and the most effective preventative protocol to offer your clients.”
The webinar takes place on Tuesday, 2nd June 2020 at 8:00pm. To register, visit: https://tinyurl.com/avasorum
Richard Casey, President of The Veterinary Marketing Group (VMG) said: “Pegasus’s survey has shown some very encouraging results. But it is also very worrying that so many of our colleagues do not feel safe from COVID19 exposure in the workplace.
"I encourage all our colleagues, regardless of whether they are management or not, to reach out to workplace colleagues. Ask them how they’re feeling, what are their concerns and what is working well?
"The same goes for clients. Let’s not assume that because we’re not yet fluent in consulting virtually that the client doesn’t value the flexibility of hearing your expert voice from the comfort of their home.
"Instead, invite feedback on how your new approaches are landing. What could be done differently? The key to managing anyone’s expectations is always clear communication. Even more so in today’s consumer driven, 24/7 economy. The veterinary practices who come out of COVID-19 well, will likely be the ones who embrace the new normal. They’ll have listened to their team and clients needs, and found ways to meet them.”
The new leaflet, ‘Separation anxiety as a result of the pandemic. What can you do?’, was written in collaboration with clinical animal behaviourist, Rosie Bescoby, and is aimed at dog owners whose pets are struggling to adjust to the ‘new normal’.
It includes an overview of separation anxiety, including the signs to look out for and how to tackle it, together with training tips to help adult dogs and preventative advice for puppies.
The leaflet also includes advice on the dog fear ladder, which demonstrates the different levels of fear a dog may exhibit resulting in more extreme reactions being displayed, and information on the Adaptil range of products which help support dogs throughout their lives.
The leaflet is available as both a printed and online version to enable vet practices to distribute it to their clients in a format of their choice. It is supported by a social media toolkit for vet practices consisting of posts, graphics and a video.
Abigail King, senior behaviour product manager at Ceva Animal Health, said: “Lockdowns have been a positive experience for many of our dogs, as they are social animals and love being with their owners.
“However, with the 2021 PFMA annual pet population report confirming that 3.2 million households in the UK have acquired a pet since the start of the pandemic, some pet owners have never left their dogs home alone, so it’s going to be a totally new experience which some pets may struggle with.
"Our new separation anxiety leaflet will help support both pets and owners as they adjust to the new normal.”
For further information, contact your local Ceva Animal Health account manager or email cevauk@ceva.com.