A recent survey of nurses attending Hill's nurse roadshows has identified that just over 20 per cent of nurses pay for their own CPD. Although no claims have been made regarding how representative the sample is of the general nursing population, the survey by Hill's Pet Nutrition mirrors the results of a recent RVCS survey.
Adrian Pratt, Veterinary Affairs Manager at Hill's said: "It comes as no great surprise to find that nurses are so dedicated to doing a good job that they will even fund their learning themselves and it's great that round 80 per cent are having their CPD paid for. It is a little depressing to find that some of the practices they work in are unable to support nurses in their efforts, perhaps because of the economic situation. We launched our Veterinary Nutrition Academy with the aim of offering easy to access CPD, free or at very low cost. Practice members can register free and I'd really encourage practice principals and practice managers to take a look at www.myhillspet.com/vna to see how much is available for negligible or very little expenditure. The credit crunch is affecting lots of people and practices but if we can use any down time available to improve skills and knowledge, that has got to be a healthy response."
Bonny Millar, President of the BVNA said: "Some employers may still be unaware that CPD is now compulsory for the RVN but a recent RCVS ‘Survey of the Veterinary Nursing Profession 2008', found that qualified VNs were not finding it difficult to meet the required 45 hours of CPD over 3 years. Those who took part in the survey said that they averaged just over 3 days in the last 12 months, with 84% of those surveyed saying all or most was paid for by the employer. As there is no obligation for the employer to pay for CPD, it is good to know that so many are doing so but it is also important that nurses can demonstrate that any newly gained knowledge will be used to provide a better service to their patients and practice."
This was a view echoed by Sarah Hibbert, President of VPMA: "It would seem logical that relevant CPD which has a benefit to both the practice and individual should be considered in a structured fashion and in light of these findings it would be appropriate for practices revisit their CPD policies to ensure they are fair and reasonable to all parties concerned."
The Hill's survey also showed that just under 30 per cent of nurses have their own CPD allowance provided by the practice. This suggests that about half of the nurses in the UK are to a large extent basing their CPD on self-directed learning. One of the champions of self-directed learning, Malcolm Knowles, defines it as a process ‘... in which individuals take the initiative, with or without the help of others, in diagnosing their learning needs, formulating learning goals, identifying human and material resources for learning, choosing and implementing appropriate learning strategies, and evaluating learning outcomes.'
According to Adrian this could signal a positive step forwards, "On one hand self directed learners have been shown to be more proactive about learning, more motivated and more likely to retain and use what they do learn. However, there is a danger that a practice could be left with gaps in knowledge or skills unless there is some active intervention in the form of a review or guidance regarding the individual's particular training needs, those of the practice team as a whole and the appropriateness of individual courses. Those practices that allocate training allowances are to be congratulated on being forward thinking but it is worth remembering that conferring a training allowance does not involve abrogating responsibility for providing support, guidance and encouragement. We have taken care to introduce incentives for completion of Hill's VNA courses, not because we think that nurses need to be motivated by extrinsic rewards but because we should celebrate those who work hard to become better nurses."
Research published this week by the Society for Companion Animal Studies (SCAS), with funding from the Pet Food Manufacturers' Association (PFMA), confirms what many veterinary professionals will already know from first-hand experience - many elderly people are suffering from distress after being forced to give up much-loved pets to move into care.
The study of 234 care homes and sheltered housing units in six UK cities revealed that only 29% routinely allowed pets, despite the growing body of evidence of the health and social benefits of pets to older people. And many of these facilities specifically excluded cats and dogs even though these are the most commonly kept species of pet. The importance of pet ownership seemed to be largely ignored with only 24% of facilities asking potential residents whether they have a pet and only 35% having any formal policy about pets.
Chairman of SCAS Elizabeth Ormerod BVMS MRCVS said: "Many vets will already be aware that the importance of pets to older people cannot be understated; for some they are their best friend, their family and their only lifeline to the outside world. People of all ages should have the right to benefit from animal companionship, as long as this is managed responsibly. So we're encouraging all housing and residential care providers to develop clear and carefully considered pet policies."
The SCAS study was carried out by psychologist Dr June McNicholas B.Sc.Ph.D, a renowned researcher of the human-animal bond. She contacted 44 veterinary surgeries in the study area to investigate the implications of these pet policies for animals, and veterinary surgeons reported that they were presented with between two and four pets per month for euthanasia for the known reason that an elderly owner was going into care. This equates to over 1,000 pets per year in the study area alone and many thousands more across the UK.
Elizabeth Ormerod continued: "Sadly, it is common practice for animals to be given up to an animal shelter or presented at a veterinary practice for euthanasia because their elderly owners are going into care. The impact on the owners is devastating. But vets should be aware that many care facilities do now take pets and if not, it may be possible to rehome them through charities like The Blue Cross."
Vets questioned in the study said that they tried to avoid the euthanasia of healthy pets except when they were very elderly or infirm and would therefore be difficult to rehome. But both vets and vet nurses expressed concerns that pets were sometimes brought in by the relatives of an elderly owner, who may have been unaware of the fate of their beloved pet.
The ‘Pets and Older People in Residential Care' research findings are published in full on a dedicated area of the SCAS website (www.scas.org.uk/petsforlife), which also offers essential information for veterinary practices, care home providers and older people who are thinking about moving into care. This includes:
A leaflet has also been produced with key advice for older people and contact details for more information. This is being distributed to veterinary surgeries but is also available to download free from the website or it can be ordered by calling SCAS on 01993 825 597. A SCAS publication ‘Older people and pets: a comprehensive guide' is also available to order online or by phone for £12.50 plus postage.
MDC Exports had launched a new biodegradable poo bag dispenser, aimed at veterinary practices and pet owners.
The idea is that pet owners can fix the dispenser to a wall, somewhere they'll be able to grab a bag on their way out of the door. The dispenser also has two strong hooks for other essentials such as dog leads or keys.
MDC Exports says their poo bags are generously-sized and feature long handles for simple tying and carrying. For more information, contact MDC Exports Limited on 01582 655600, or e-mail: mdcexports@btconnect.com
Oh I wish I was a travel journalist sometimes.
Vets should now consider Angiostrongylus vasorum a countrywide parasite and not one that is restricted to the traditional hotspots of the South East, the Midlands and south Wales. This was the main message delivered by Shelia Brennan of University College Dublin to almost 300 vets attending the recent Bayer-sponsored A vasorum CPD meetings, held across the north of England and Scotland. Sheila said: "Until recently, angiostrongylosis was only recognised in limited areas of the UK, and confirmed cases were few and far between. Now we are hearing reports of the disease as far afield as Kent and Glasgow and dogs are dying as a result. If caught early enough, the disease can be treated successfully. Vets should be aware of the many and varied symptoms and consider this parasite as a differential in any dog with suspicious clinical signs." Dogs of any age can be infected with the parasite, but the majority presenting with clinical disease are less than two years of age. A number of clinical presentations are recognised. Dogs may present with respiratory signs (cough, exercise intolerance), coagulopathy, neurological signs, syncope and in a small number of cases hypercalcaemia. These signs can occur in isolation or in combination, and not all dogs have respiratory signs. Haemorrhage following routine neutering has been anecdotally reported. Dogs with a history of eating the parasite's intermediate hosts (slugs and snails) should be considered as being at high risk. Chris White, Bayer's Advocate product manager said: "The attendance of nearly 300 vets at the four-meeting series, in areas not normally associated with the disease, is further evidence that vets are becoming increasingly concerned about the threat posed by A vasorum. This is the third series of meetings we have held, reaching around 1,000 vets and vet nurses across the country."
Dechra Veterinary Products, maker of the feline hyperthyroidism treatment Felimazole®, has launched a range of waiting room materials for practices to raise awareness with owners about the disease. Using Dechra's cartoon cat, which already features in their client booklets on feline hyperthyroidism, the materials are intended to create a focal point in the waiting room, with factual posters detailing what feline hyperthyroidism is and the symptoms to look out for. Also included is a selection of display enhancers.
The new waiting room display has been designed to complement Dechra's existing materials: client booklets, the website http://www.hyperthyroidcat.co.uk/, website posters and hand-out cards.
Matthew Olsen, product manager at Dechra Veterinary Products said: "Our complete range of materials makes it easier for practices to communicate with owners on the subject and will help owners better understand and manage hyperthyroidism in their cats".
Practices can order their pack of waiting room materials by contacting Dechra on 01743 441632 or email marketing@dechra.com.
The 2009 Petplan Veterinary Awards are now underway, and you may now nominate those exceptional colleagues in the veterinary profession who you feel deserve to be officially recognised for all their hard work. This year will be a double celebration as Petplan celebrates its 10-year anniversary of the awards. The company invites you to nominate a colleague (or your entire team) for an award in one of four different categories: Practice of the Year Vet of the Year Vet Nurse of the Year Receptionist of the Year Nomination forms, posters, and leaflet dispensers are now available in practices. Forms are also available online at www.petplan.co.uk/vetawards. You may order more nomination forms by emailing vetawards@allianzcornhill.co.uk or calling 0845 678 1063. Simon Wheeler, head of marketing for Petplan, said: "Nominating your colleagues for an award is a fantastic way of expressing your appreciation. Veterinary practices are dedicated to animal welfare and at Petplan we believe that their invaluable care and support deserves to be recognised. The 10th annual Petplan Veterinary Awards will recognise this and celebrate those exceptional professionals." Nominations close February 6th 2009.
A new survey by Petplan has revealed that a staggering 7 in 10 (73%) of veterinary nurses feel that their clients do not have a sufficient understanding of their role in practice. Petplan conducted the survey at BVNA Congress to find out how veterinary nurses feel about a whole range of issues affecting the profession. Louisa Baker, the 2008 Petplan Vet Nurse of the Year, said: "Clients are often not aware of the skills required to be a vet nurse. Most clients believe we just handle the animals whereas we are often involved with surgical activities such as stitching and preparing drips." 40% of you agreed that direct contact with animals, such as caring for them through recovery, is the best part of the job. Despite clients not fully comprehending the role you play in the care of animals, over half (54%) of you told Petplan that your work was extremely rewarding. Louisa believes that better awareness needs to be made of this fantastic profession, "Clients need increased education about the role of the vet nurse within animal care. Other members of the veterinary profession need to promote the responsibilities of nurses to clients which would establish more kudos for the profession." Nearly 28% of you had changed your career to become a vet nurse. Previous careers included being an air hostess, art gallery manager and event groom. Nearly all of you (99%) confirmed that you value training and CPD to further your career. To support this desire to learn, Petplan has launched its Petplan Insurance Advisor training scheme. Already, over 500 nurses have completed a module, counting towards valuable CPD points. The scheme enables the development of individual skills such as the ability to sell products and gain confidence with clients. Available online, vet nurses can participate in the scheme at work or at home. Visit http://www.petplanpia.co.uk/ for more information.
The lower age limit for student veterinary nurses - previously set at 17 - has been removed by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, in order to comply with age discrimination legislation. The entry requirements remain unchanged: five GSCEs at grade C or higher, or five Scottish Standards at grades one to three (including English Language, Maths and a Science subject). Candidates must also have a place with an RCVS-approved Training Practice or on a recognised veterinary nursing degree course. "We hope that the removal of this age barrier will be seen as a positive step that will serve to improve access to training," says Libby Earle, Head of Veterinary Nursing. "Practices remain free to recruit as they see fit to meet the particular demands of their business," she adds. New veterinary nursing careers leaflets have been produced to reflect the change and are available from vetnursing@rcvs.org.uk / 020 7202 0711, or to download from RCVSonline: www.rcvs.org.uk/publications
Hill's Prescription Diet j/d has been voted the Best Speciality Dog Product by readers of Your Dog at the magazine's recent annual Product Awards. Robert Gundry, Consumer Marketing Manager at Hill's, said: "This is a great achievement for Hill's Pet Nutrition as it is clear recognition by consumers that j/d really does make a difference to the quality of life for dogs with mobility issues. It is also great news that dog owners are realising that mobility problems can be addressed with professional help from their vet and with appropriate nutrition." According to Hill's, Prescription Diet Canine j/d has been clinically proven to help dogs with mobility problems. The company says its unique formula contains omega-3 fatty acids which soothe tissue around the joints and reduce inflammation to relieve pain. EPA, a specific omega-3 fatty acid found in sea fish oil preserves healthy joint cartilage.
Petplan is hosting a series of seminars for charity staff throughout November. The ‘All About Charities' seminars, covering the latest hot charity topics will be running on the following dates: - 12th November, Nottingham - 19th November, Edinburgh - 26th November, Bristol A variety of prominent speakers, all experts in their field, have agreed to speak covering topics such as; · Recognising problematic behaviour in sheltered animals (Sarah Heath, Veterinary Behaviourist) · Control of infection (Dr Susan Dawson, University of Liverpool) · Managing conflict - dealing with difficult visitors and potential new owners (David Smart of David Smart Associates) The seminars are a great opportunity to engage in valuable personal development for all charity staff. For full details of the seminar timetable and to book your place on the seminar, visit www.petplan.co.uk/charity and download the flyer. For seminar questions please call Petplan on 020 8580 8214 or alternatively email events@petplan.co.uk Tickets cost £25 and are allocated on a first-come first-served basis so book today!
Following discussions with the BVNA, City & Guilds has developed a new qualification for senior Veterinary Nurses: the Licentiateship in Veterinary Nursing. The qualification provides recognition of professional development for individuals who progress into more senior roles, but often have little in the way of formal recognition of the work that they undertake. The Licentiateship offers a form of recognition based around Continuing Professional Development. To qualify for the award applicants will need to meet the following criteria: A veterinary nursing qualification at NVQ level 3 or equivalent. Either: evidence of further professional development in a management or supervisory role. Or: evidence of at least five years CPD in which applicants have progressed into a supervisory or management role. The Licentiateship is used in over 70 different vocational sectors to recognise professional excellence. City & Guilds Senior awards are offered by a variety of organisations to recognise the mix of high levels of academic and professional skills, but which do not necessarily carry formal recognition. One of the sectors within which the Licentiateship is popular is Health and Social Care. This is an area with many people qualified with an NVQ level at level 3 but where further qualifications are often not available, or fail to reflect individuals' career aspirations. The Licentiateship has proved popular as it takes account of previous qualifications whilst allowing recognition of ongoing professional development. As well as gaining a certificate and post nominal letters, Senior Award recipients are invited to attend the annual City & Guilds graduation ceremony in the Merchant Taylors Hall in the City of London. In May 2008 over 180 candidates received their awards and were able to share the experience with their friends and family. City & Guilds Senior awards are offered under Royal Charter in recognition of academic ability and professional skills at the three levels of Licentiateship (LCGI), Graduateship (GCGI) and Membership MCGI). For more information please contact Patrick Sherlock, City and Guilds, 1 Giltspur Street, London EC1A 9DD, E. patrick.sherlock@cityandguilds.com, T. 020 7294 8220 Or visit: www.cityandguilds.com/seniorawards
The Blue Cross has presented its Veterinary Nurse of the Year award to Rebecca Darbyshire for her outstanding contribution to animal welfare, both within her veterinary practice and among the local community in Pocklington, York. The award was presented during the British Veterinary Nursing Association (BVNA) annual congress in Kettering, Northamptonshire on Saturday 11 October by BBC wildlife presenter Steve Leonard and The Blue Cross director of veterinary services, Christian Bamber.
This award celebrates the significant contribution made by a veterinary nurse in both educating the public and promoting the welfare of pets in the community. Veterinary surgeons and members of the public all over the country were invited to nominate a nurse who they felt had made an important contribution to their local community.
Christian Bamber explained: "This annual award is an opportunity for The Blue Cross to applaud the dedication and hard work of veterinary nurses across the UK. Rebecca's compassion and kindness towards pet owners in her local community has led to a deeper understanding of and commitment to animal welfare in her area. We congratulate Rebecca for winning this year's award and for her tireless enthusiasm and cheer which is so appreciated by the pets and their owners at her Yorkshire practice.
Rebecca was nominated by vet and colleague Matt Brash at Battlefields veterinary clinic in Pocklington.
Mr Brash said: "Rebecca is an outstanding, unassuming professional nurse. She runs all of the clinics that a modern day nurse does, but still has the time for anybody - whatever they need, whenever they need it. She has developed such a close relationship with our clients that they would often rather see her than a vet!"
Rebecca said: "It was a total surprise to find out I had won this year's award. I had no idea I'd even been nominated and I've never won anything before. I've been a veterinary nurse for more than 14 years and I really, really enjoy it. It just gets better as time goes on!"
From 31 October 2008, veterinary surgeons will again be allowed to charge animal owners for writing prescriptions, when a three-year ban on such fees comes to an end. The Supply of Relevant Veterinary Medicinal Products Order 2005 was introduced by the former Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to implement recommendations from a 2003 Competition Commission inquiry into the supply of prescription-only veterinary medicines, which, among other things, found that prescription charges were against the public interest. It was hoped by the DTI that the move would benefit consumers by providing for pharmacies and other suppliers to have an opportunity to establish themselves as competitors to veterinary surgeons in supplying prescription-only veterinary medicines. Although veterinary practices will be able to make a charge for writing a prescription from 31 October 2008, one thing does not change: practices must not charge different fees for other services or veterinary medicines to those who take a prescription and those who do not. Jill Nute, RCVS President said: "The OFT (Office of Fair Trading) will monitor the reintroduction of prescription charges and has indicated that the level of monitoring will be proportionate to the perceived need - how well the market is working. In addition, the RCVS will monitor complaints that relate to prescription charges and meet with the OFT to review the situation in six months time. Care must be taken to ensure that prescription fees are calculated sensibly, or the zero-fee ruling may be reintroduced." The OFT has advised that veterinary practices must not agree between themselves what constitutes a suitable fee: it is prohibited by competition law. General guidance for members of the profession is available on RCVSonline (Advice Note 15): www.rcvs.org.uk/advicenotes. Guidance for members of the public is also available online at: http://www.consumerdirect.gov.uk/before_you_buy/thinking_about/560042/ Other Competition Commission recommendations, such as displaying a price-list of the ten relevant veterinary medicinal products most commonly prescribed during a recent period, have been enforced since 2005 via the RCVS Guide to Professional Conduct and will remain in place.
Some interesting statistics from insurers Petplan today. Turns out that almost a third of 3000 pet owners surveyed by the company admitted accidentally injuring their pet, resulting in an average vet bill of £170. Nearly 6 out of 10 owners admitted stepping on their pet, while 21% confessed to dropping them. The next biggest threat posed to pets by their owners was accidental poisoning. The survey found that dogs are most likely to be stepped on, whilst guinea pigs are most likely to be dropped by their overly affectionate owners. The survey also found that 1/3rd of pets hurt themselves jumping off furniture, and one in five have been injured running in front of a car. More than a third of pets injure themselves eating something they shouldn't, including the dog that swallowed a pair of knickers, which ended up costing £1,200 to retrieve.
Intervet/Schering-Plough Animal Health, has launched a new guide entitled 'Your guide to Exotic Diseases', to educate horse owners on these potentially fatal, insect-borne diseases, some of which are zoonotic. Joining the company's guides on respiratory disease and vaccination, the leaflet features information on West Nile Virus, African Horse Sickness, Equine Infectious Anaemia (Swamp Fever) and Equine Encephalitis including overviews of each of the diseases and their clinical signs. Spread by a variety of insect-borne vectors including midges, mosquitoes and horseflies, climate change is increasing the risk of exotic diseases having a severe impact on the country's equine industry. What's more, African Horse Sickness is transmitted from animal to animal by infected biting Culicoides midges, the same midges that carry the Bluetongue virus which has threatened UK livestock this year. "It's essential that horse owners are aware of the threat of exotic diseases coming in from overseas and the clinical signs to look out for, especially during the summer and autumn months when diseases transmitted by insects are more likely to appear." comments Tim Zoch, Marketing Manager at Intervet/Schering-Plough Animal Health. "Our new leaflet features easy-to-understand overviews of each of the diseases to help educate owners, and practices can expect strong demand from their clients" For further information about Intervet/Schering-Plough's range of horse owner guides, including 'Your guide to Exotic Diseases', please contact your Intervet/Schering-Plough Account Manager or call the Veterinary Support Group on 01908 685685.
At a black tie dinner held during BVNA Congress at the weekend, the winner and runners-up of the Hill's Pet Nutrition Veterinary Healthcare Adviser (VHA) of the Year 2008 were announced. The winner was Lisa Nix,RVN, from Holmefield Vet Clinic at Sherburn-in-Elmet, who won £1000 in holiday vouchers. As the standard of entries this year was so high, the judges decided this time to award two runners-up prizes to Samantha Kenny, RVN, Lancaster Vet Clinic, Lancaster, and Andrw Lipscombe, RVN from Park Vet Hospital, Sheffield and they were each given £500 holiday vouchers. Lucy Woodburn of Three Rivers veterinary practice in Beccles is the winner of the top exam marks in the VHA exams held throughout 2007. Picture shows (left to right): Andrew Lipscombe RVN, Park Vet Hospital, Sheffield (Runner-up); Samantha Kenny RVN, Lancaster Vet Clinic, Lancaster (Runner-up); Lisa Nix RVN, Holmefield Vet Clinic, Sherburn-in-Elmet, VHA of the Year 2008
Petplan is delighted to announce Kelly Cummings has won the Petplan Insurance Advisor of the Year Award. She was presented with her award at the BVNA ceremony on Saturday 11th October. This award recognises the hard work and dedication that Petplan Insurance Advisors (PIAs) do to highlight the importance of insurance to pet owners as a means of financial protection. Simon Wheeler, Head of Marketing at Petplan said: "Kelly is a great advocate for pet insurance. Establishing pet insurance as part of the culture in her practice made Kelly stand out as an ambassador for others to follow. As practice manager of Albavets in Glasgow, Kelly leads by example to ensure pet insurance benefits both clients and the veterinary practice itself." The other finalists were Fiona Andrew from Tay Valley Veterinary Centre in Perth and Helen Rosser from Blythman & Partners in Newcastle-upon-Tyne. The award was judged by last year's winner Sally Harrison, President of VPMA, Sarah Hibbert and Vicky Field of Petplan. This award coincides with the launch of Petplan's new and improved online training course for PIAs which allows nurses to continue their personal development training and earn valuable CPD points. The scheme helps practices offer the complete package of knowledge to pet owners and encourages clients to return as they know that the practice goes that extra mile to help with all their needs - clinical as well as financial. To find out more about how to become a PIA, log onto http://www.petplanpia.co.uk/ and if you register before the 31st December 2008 you will be entered into a free prize draw with a chance to win a laptop!
Vet Helpline, run by the Veterinary Benevolent Fund to offer 24-hour support to veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses with emotional, addictive or financial problems, has agreed to extend its team of trained volunteers to include two veterinary nurses. The move comes following concerns raised by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons' Veterinary Nurses Council about sources of support for veterinary nurses, which led to discussions with the Vet Helpline team and the British Veterinary Nursing Association. The issue has particularly come to the fore now that over 70% of veterinary nurses have joined the RCVS Register. Registered Veterinary Nurses commit to demonstrate their professional responsibility to colleagues and the animal-owning public, which may lead to increased levels of stress, particularly as RVNs become accustomed to their new responsibilities. In addition, in the College's recent Survey of the Veterinary Nursing Profession, the majority of VNs agreed with the statement 'VN work is stressful'. For both reasons the College is keen to ensure that accessible support is available to VNs. "I am delighted that Vet Helpline has offered to train veterinary nurses as helpers. The helpline has always been available to veterinary nurses but this move confirms the willingness of the VBF to encourage VNs to use the service," commented Andrea Jeffery, Chairman of the RCVS Veterinary Nurses Council. "I would urge all VNs to use the support services available to them if they feel under pressure, or know that a colleague may need some help," she adds. A torch bearing the Vet Helpline number is available free to visitors to the RCVS stand at BVNA Congress this weekend (11 October), together with a leaflet outlining sources of support, including Vet Helpline, the Veterinary Surgeons Health Support Scheme, the BVNA Legal Helpline, http://www.vetlife.org.uk/ and the RCVS itself.
The European Advisory Board on Cat Diseases (ABCD) has issued new guidelines concerning rabies in cats. The organisation, which is made up of 17 independent veterinary experts, meets 3 times a year to discuss major infectious feline diseases. The rabies guidelines are the latest in the series, which are available for download at: http://www.abcd-vets.org/guidelines/index.asp
The Animal Medicines Training Regulatory Authority (AMTRA) is launching its new Continuous Professional Development (CPD) scheme today, designed to ensure that the Authority's registered Suitably Qualified Persons (SQPs) keep up to date with the latest animal medicines information.
In order to maintain their SQP status, every SQP will have to achieve a minimum number of CPD points during each AMTRA CPD period, running for two years from July to June. However, in the initial stages of the scheme, this first period will run for 33 months, from October 2008 to June 2011, allowing AMTRA to fine tune the system if required and give its SQPs time to get used to the new structure.
During these CPD periods, SQPs are required to obtain a minimum number of CPD points depending on their SQP type:
SQP Type: Modules; VPS medicines supplied; CPD Points R-SQP: FAM+EQM+CAM; All VPS Medicines; 70 points G-SQP: FAM+EQM; VPS-farm animals and equines only; 50 points K-SQP: FAM+CAM; VPS-farm and companion animals only; 50 points E-SQP: EQM+CAM; VPS-equines and companion animals only; 50 points L-SQP: FAM; VPS-farm animals only; 30 points J-SQP: EQM; VPS-equines only; 30 points C-SQP: CAM; VPS-companion animals only; 30 points
(FAM - Farm Animal Module, EQM - Equine Module, CAM - Companion Animal Module)
In essence, this means that 20 points are required per animal group, plus a further 10 points. Dr Roger Dawson, Secretary of AMTRA comments, "There is no maximum number of CPD points that SQPs can accumulate and we will be encouraging them to gain the benefit of as much CPD as they can."
Those SQPs who do not achieve the minimum number of CPD points by the end of the period will not be eligible to renew their status for the following year. However, such SQPs will have the option of sitting an examination before the end of that CPD period in order to maintain their SQP status and eligible be to renew for the next year.
SQPs will have a range of avenues through which to gain CPD points, ranging from four types of AMTRA-accredited CPD Events, to online study and personal study. With CPD Events and online studies, accreditation and points will be awarded by the AMTRA CPD Accreditation Panel. With personal study, AMTRA accepts a degree of self-certification of this form of CPD, however the points gained in this way are limited to a relatively small proportion of the minimum required in a CPD period.
Throughout a CPD period, all SQPs are required to attend at least ONE CPD Event. These events will comprise a range of modules that will be assessed for coverage, of relevant topics ranging from legislation, regulations and prevalence & effects of parasites and pathogens, to control of disease management, resistance, warnings and SARS.
Dr Dawson says, "The new CPD scheme has the necessary flexibility to allow SQPs to gain the required CPD points via a number of routes, from accredited CPD events and online study to personal study. Furthermore, the structure of the scheme ensures that their studies will be properly assessed to ensure they have gained the necessary knowledge to secure their CPD points."
The British Veterinary Association has welcomed the British Veterinary Nursing Association and the Veterinary Practice Management Association as Affiliate members. Affiliate and Associate are newly activated BVA membership categories, and the election of BVNA and the VPMA as Affiliates also encourages any of their suitably qualified members to apply for Associate membership of the BVA. According to the BVA, Affiliate status in no way affects an organisation's own remit and responsibilities towards its members. What it does mean is that Affiliates can benefit from the BVA's knowledge and expertise in such areas as lobbying and marketing. In welcoming BVNA and VPMA newly elected BVA President Nicky Paull said: "I am delighted that my Presidential year coincides with the BVA family embracing both veterinary nurses and veterinary practice managers. Both are integral members of the veterinary team and we believe that our new relationship will bring lasting benefits to all parties. BVA looks forward to supporting our new Affiliates in promoting the professionalism of both veterinary nursing and veterinary practice management not only within the profession but to the wider community.
These are exciting, if challenging times, for the veterinary community world-wide and I have no doubt that our new relationship will strengthen not only our individual associations but the profession as a whole."
According to the European Scientific Counsel for Companion Animal Parasites (ESCCAP), serious zoonotic diseases, currently rife across Europe, could be a far more serious threat to pet and human health in the UK than official figures suggest. Vets and parasitologists at an ESCCAP meeting held in Bristol on 19th September, heard evidence that UK cases of diseases such as leishmaniosis and babesiosis are grossly under-reported. ESCCAP is urging vets and parasitologists to help raise awareness of the threat and lobby the Government to prevent further relaxation of pet movement restrictions. According to DACTARI, the voluntary web-based Dog And Cat Travel And Risk Information scheme, just 19 cases of leishmaniosis, 10 babesiosis, 10 ehrlichiosis and one case of dirofilariosis had been recorded between 1 January 2003 and 30 September 2006, which are the latest figures reported on the Defra website. But latest figures presented by Susan Shaw, senior lecturer in dermatological and applied immunology, revealed a screening programme underway at Bristol University casts serious doubts on the reliability of the Defra-backed service to monitor cases. "From 2005 to 2007 we recorded 257 cases of leishmaniosis. The babesiosis cases you can multiply by about five, the ehrlichiosis cases by about 10 and dirofilariosis by three," Ms Shaw told delegates at the sixth ESCCAP meeting. "That is absolutely outrageous - we are dealing with a massive number of cases. I would be very concerned if we are making decisions for the UK based on the DACTARI figures." Maggie Fisher, an independent consultant in veterinary parasitology and founding member of ESCCAP pointed out that the PETS (Pet Travel Scheme), has issued dogs and cats with passports for travel across Europe since 2000 and has proven immensely popular, with 76,000 dogs entering the UK in January to October 2007 alone. "What is coming into the country with those animals is not well documented," said Mrs Fisher. Case studies point to harrowing experiences for individual families travelling with their dogs to mainland Europe unaware of the dangers. "One family thought they'd done everything they should because they followed the instructions under PETS. What they didn't realise is that they weren't protected against ticks, tick-borne diseases and worms whilst they were away and their dog picked up babesiosis." Human health and veterinary professionals at the meeting explored the real threat and implications of parasites across Europe. Peter Deplazes of ESCCAP, Switzerland, reported that the human form of Echinococcus multilocularis claims three or four lives per year in Switzerland and is a very common endoparasitic diagnosis in dogs. Forty per cent of foxes are infected with E multilocularis. Leishmaniosis causes renal failure in dogs, reported ESCCAP Spain's Lupe Miro Corrales, often leading to death or euthanasia. Worldwide more than 12 million people are already infected, and one in ten at risk of being infected. Stray dogs and cats are important carriers and almost 80 per cent of sero-positive dogs have no clinical signs. Natural controls offered by the UK's island status are now under threat. Currently a derogation allows the UK, and four other EU member states, stricter controls to help maintain their Echinococcus multilocularis and tick-borne disease free status. It extends to July 2010 but comes up for review next year, pointed out Maggie Tomlinson from the Department of Health, who is taking the case to the EU Commission. "I can say categorically that they are not keen for us to keep the derogation and it's going to be a very hard fight. We only have until January to push the Commission to make a decision." Chairman-elect of ESCCAP Europe, James Duncan, pointed out the organisation is seeking to raise awareness of the serious risks posed by endo and ecto-parasites to human and animal health, and is developing independent guidelines and educational materials for their optimal control. "There is no immediate panacea," he said. But those in the veterinary profession who are aware of the risks should take action. "It is up to you to lobby - put your voice to Government and influence the pet passport scheme. You can do that and it will help our cause because we are singing from the same hymn sheet."
Bayer Animal Health has launched Renalzin®, a feed additive for the management of Chronic Renal Disease (CRD), the leading cause of morbidity and mortality, especially in older cats 1.
One-third of all cats over 15 years of age have CRD2, but the disease often remains undetected until the cat suddenly falls ill, by which stage 85% of kidney function may have already been lost3. The clinical signs are often subtle and non-specific, and diagnosis is complicated by the fact that changes in laboratory values occur relatively late in the disease.
Dr. Dennis Chew, specialist in veterinary urology and nephrology at the Ohio State University, said: "Most veterinary surgeons understand that CRD affects many cats, especially as they age, and is a leading cause of death. CRD is difficult to identify in early stages - early intervention with treatment can prevent progression of CRD to those with more serious kidney deficits. Restriction of dietary phosphorus intake is known to be a pivotal beneficial step in the stabilisation of CRD. Renalzin is a paste specifically formulated for cats that prevents dietary phosphate absorption across the intestine - a beneficial effect is gained when added to the cat's normal diet or to a veterinary renal diet".
The main ingredient of Renalzin is Bayer-registered Lantharenol® (lanthanum carbonate), a phosphate binder which binds to dietary phosphate within the gastrointestinal tract. According to the company, this renders it indigestible and thereby eases the burden on the already damaged kidneys.
Renalzin contains two additional ingredients - kaolin and vitamin E. Kaolin is a toxin binder which helps to reduce the absorption of toxins from the gastrointestinal tract. Vitamin E is known to reduce free radicals, improving immunity and protecting the integrity of cell membranes.
Bayer says that clinical studies demonstrate that Renalzin significantly increases faecal elimination and decreases urinary excretion of phosphorus 5. The product also decreases phosphate digestibility (absorption) in cats that are on both high and lower phosphate diets6. In addition, studies have shown that Renalzin causes a decrease in serum phosphate levels in cats with standard maintenance diets non-restricted in phosphorus7. Finally, a clinical trial in feline CRD patients revealed that taking Renalzin resulted in improvements in general clinical examination parameters as assessed by their veterinary surgeons over a two month period in cats on a normal diet7.
Renalzin comes in a pump applicator. One pump action provides 1 ml, with 2 ml being the recommended daily dose applied to and/or mixed with the cat's food. Having a neutral taste and being odourless, Renalzin® does not change the flavour of the cat's food and is flexible for clients to use as it can be given once or twice daily depending on the cat's feeding pattern.
References 1 Lulich JP, O'Brien TD, Osbourne CA, Polzin DJ. Feline renal failure: questions, answers, questions. Cd Cont Ed Pract Vet 1992, 14(2): 127 - 151. 2 Polzin DJ, Osbourne CA, Adams LG, Lulich JP. Medical management of feline chronic renal failure. In, Bonagura JD, Kirk RW (eds). Current Veterinarian Therapy X1. Philadelphia, PA, Saunders, 1992: 848-853. 3 Grauer GF. Early detection of renal damage and disease in dogs and cats. Vet Clin Small Animal 2005, 35: 581-596. 4 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lanthanum_carbonate. 5 Schmidt B et al Bay 78-1887, J Vet Pharmacol Therap 2006, 29 (Suppl 1): 206-207 6 Schmidt B, Spiecker-Hauser U, Gropp J. Effecrt of Lantharenol® on apparent phosphorus absorption from a conventional feline maintenance diet and a renal diet for cats. Proc Soc Nutr Physiol (2008) 17, in press.7 Data submitted for publication.
There's a lot going on at the Hill's stand at BVNA Congress this year, including some useful give-aways, and some great competition prizes:
Every visitor to the stand will receive a free umbrella (which should be useful, given the weather this year!).
Also on offer is free registration to the Veterinary Nutrition Academy - an on-line resource offering access to all Hill's courses, CPD and events. The first 200 nurses or trainees to register during congress will receive a set of pretty and protective lip balms.
There's also a free prize draw in which you could win a Nikon Coolpix 6 Mega pixel digital camera or one of 25 level 1 VNA courses on offer each day.
Last, but not least, Hill's says there is bags of information available on weight management and mobility, so nurses thinking about setting up clinics and looking for tools, ideas and support should definitely stop by.
Once business has been attended to, you can also have a go on a Nintendo Wii that Hill's will have on stand.
Vets Now is inviting all veterinary nurses attending this year's BVNA to disco down to their disco themed stand and take part in the Vets Now prize draw for a chance to win a £500 shopping trip with a personal shopper. Whether it's a high fashion trip to Harvey Nick's, a day spent browsing the rails of Top Shop, or a trolley dash round Primark, whoever wins the competition will get to choose the shop where they want to spend the £500 and have a personal shopper on hand to put these all important outfits together. The main BVNA Congress is the only event of its kind in the UK for veterinary nurses and practice staff, attracting over 1,000 delegates and 100 exhibitors. This annual event takes place this year at Kettering Conference Centre on Friday to Sunday, October 10-12, with BVNA members benefiting from considerable discounts on registration. Vets Now will be at stands 114 and 115 at BVNA.