Blue Cross hosts dog welfare event at Parliament
MPs have attended a special event on dog welfare hosted by Blue Cross at the House of Commons.
The drop-in session, which took place on 13 November, was attended by 76 MPs who heard about the charity’s manifesto for improving the welfare of the estimated 11.1 million dogs in the UK.
Among the legislative changes the manifesto calls for are the introduction of a system of registration and licensing for dog breeders, the end of breed-specific legislation for dogs, tougher penalties for people who fail to control their dogs, and a ban on greyhound racing.
The charity also wants the government to look into regulating dog behaviour and training services. Currently anyone, regardless of qualifications or experience, can set themselves up as a dog trainer or behaviourist. Blue Cross also wants to see a licensing system introduced for dog walkers, groomers, and boarders.
Becky Thwaites, Blue Cross head of public affairs, said: “We were delighted that so many MPs joined us and that many are as passionate as we are to improve the lives of the nation’s dogs.
“Our manifesto charts the course of a dog’s life, highlighting the areas where legislative change is needed to ensure all pets are happy and healthy in a loving home.”
MP Steve Race, who sponsored the event, added: “We are known as a nation of animal lovers but when it comes to pet welfare so many things can be improved. I am supporting the Blue Cross with their manifesto and will be encouraging fellow MPs to do the same.”
Image © Blue Cross
VMG Congress 2025 registration opens
The Veterinary Management Group (VMG) has welcomed registrations for VMG Congress 2025, which takes place from 24-25 April.
Hosted at Crowne Plaza, Stratford-upon-Avon, the event will incorporate three streams which focus on different elements of leadership.
The ‘Building Foundations’ stream aims to provide guidance for new and aspiring leaders. It offers insight on the fundamentals of leadership as well as explaining how leaders can set foundations for future success.
‘Expanding Horizons’ is designed for more experienced leaders and explains advanced leadership strategies. It will also discuss some growing industry trends, including ‘quiet quitting’, online misinformation and service expansion.
The ‘Discovering Opportunities’ stream will include the launch of the second edition of the VMG State of UK Veterinary Leadership Report. Following the findings of the first edition, this stream will also feature workshops and panel discussions that explore how the VMG will tackle knowledge gaps in veterinary leadership.
This year’s keynote speaker will be Calvin Akotuah, the co-founder of Loud Speaker.
Loud Speaker, which was a finalist in the 2023 Great British Entrepreneur Awards, holds life skills workshops for young people across the UK. In his speech, Mr Akotuah will discuss resilience, motivation and how managers can contribute to positive change.
Other popular features returning include the VMG’s early ‘kickstart’ sessions and a morning ‘walkshop’ along the bank of the River Avon, hosted in collaboration with Art of Brilliance.
As part of its commitment to future leaders, the VMG has this year introduced the discounted ‘Aspiring Leader’ package, which invites delegates to bring a colleague who they believe has leadership potential. Similarly, a new startup exhibitor package will offer new opportunities for new and emerging businesses.
Liz Somerville, VMG president, said: “Today’s veterinary leaders, whether experienced or just setting out on their journey, face numerous challenges – but ours is a collaborative profession, always ready to support and guide one another.
“VMG Congress will showcase the very best of leadership in our profession today and offer two days of learning, sharing and inspiration to all.”
Tickets are available here.
Image © Shutterstock
BVNA launches online pet behaviour hub
A new online hub on animal behaviour has been launched for members of the British Veterinary Nursing Association (BVNA).
The forum, available through the BVNA member portal, provides a space for veterinary nurses to share resources and discuss topics around pet behaviour.
There will be monthly topics on the forum as well as general discussions. The topic for the first month is how veterinary nurses can pursue an interest in animal behaviour. The hub will also signpost further training and CPD resources.
The project is designed to complement BVNA’s ongoing collaboration with the Animal Behaviour and Training Council. Since 2022, the two organisations have offered a Learning Pathway in Behaviour CPD course to provide foundational knowledge of pet behaviour.
Nikki McLeod, BVNA honorary treasurer and Behaviour Hub project lead, said: "Knowledge of animal behaviour is essential to our role as veterinary nurses, plus the wider veterinary team too. Having this understanding has an enormous positive impact on the emotional wellbeing of our patients while in our care.
“However, we also know that it can be tricky to find accessible, reliable sources of information and advice surrounding pet behaviour. BVNA is therefore delighted to launch the Behaviour Hub as a brand-new resource and membership benefit to BVNA members.
“This will provide the opportunity to discuss anything related to behaviour, in a constructive and supportive forum - and importantly, tailored to meet the needs of veterinary nurses. We invite members to be part of the conversation.”
Image © Shutterstock
Many farmers undecided about BTV-3 vaccination, survey finds
There is hesitancy about bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) vaccinations among farmers, initial findings from a survey looking at the impact of the outbreak on farmers suggest.
Over half of the farmers who responded said they remain undecided about vaccination, though a significant number, particularly sheep farmers, said that they plan to vaccinate before the next summer season.
The survey, which is being conducted by Ruminant Health & Welfare in collaboration with Flock Health Limited, the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB), and the University of Nottingham, has also revealed the impact that the outbreak is having on farmers.
Some have reported that it has become more difficult to sell their livestock. Another, who had experienced mortality on their farm due to bluetongue, described the experience as “horrible; physically, financially, mentally and emotionally.”
Alongside the survey, the Animal and Plant Health Agency is studying the impact of the virus on premises where it has been confirmed. Signs seen in infected animals include lameness, swollen faces, nose and mouth ulcers, drooling, breathing difficulties, nasal discharge, and mortality.
Fiona Lovatt, of Flock Health Limited, said: “We know that in Germany, the research shows a marked difference in outcomes between vaccinated and unvaccinated herds and flocks.
“Findings indicate that unvaccinated sheep flocks have experienced mortality rates as high as 30 per cent, whereas vaccinated flocks show significantly lower mortality, with some reporting only 1-2 per cent losses.
“We want to learn from this data and build a UK base of evidence that we can trust going forwards.”
Bluetongue is a notifiable disease. Suspected cases must be reported on 03000 200 301 in England or 03003 038 268 in Wales. In Scotland, suspected cases should be reported to the local field services office. Suspected cases in Northern Ireland should be reported to the DAERA Helpline on 0300 200 7840 or by contacting the local DAERA Direct Veterinary Office.
Image © Shutterstock
Articles by
Steph Cook
R Eddie Clutton
Clinical director
Siuna A Reid
Exotics specialist
Stephenie Malone
Specialist employment solicitor
Karen Wild
Clinical animal behaviourist
Claire Hodgson
Equine clinician
Kerry Doolin
Emergency and critical care clinician
Hilary Orpet
Senior lecturer and veterinary nurse
Clara Ashcroft
Marketing and communications writer and journalist
Jemma Fry
Veterinary physiotherapist and hydrotherapist
Stephanie Williams
Diagnostic radiographer
Norman Johnston
Dental and oral surgery specialist
Kieran Borgeat
Specialist in veterinary cardiology
Claire Hargrave
Animal behaviourist and lecturer
Emma Purnell
Veterinary nurse
John Hill
Bee enthusiast and experienced veterinary surgeon
John Matthews
Veterinary surgeon with a specific interest in goat care
Hayley Walters
Welfare and anaesthesia veterinary nurse
Helen Ballantyne
Human and veterinary nurse
Rob Tillyard
Specialising in veterinary practice management systems
Jane Ellison
Senior information scientist at the Veterinary Poisons Information Service
Alice Allbrook
James Yeates
Chief veterinary officer of the RSPCA
Joanne Webster
Head RVN, specialist in veterinary nurse training
Clinical Abstracts and blogs
Eye problems in the horse
The size and prominence of the equine eye means that disease and injury to the eye are common occurrences. Many...
Locating neurological lesions
Whilst neurology is an area of specialisation, most neurological lesions initially present in first opinion practice. Therefore, every general...
Common calving problems
The objectives for managing a cow at calving should be the same regardless of whether the cow is in a...
A forelimb amputation in a guinea pig with osteomyelitis
Guinea pigs are commonly-owned, exotic small mammals and present frequently to veterinary surgeons in general practice. Small mammal limb injuries...
Poisoning – the bigger picture: pigs, sheep, goats and horses
The Veterinary Poisons Information Service answer enquiries about any animal – big or small – and although larger animals represent...
Team member disputes – managing difficult employment relationships before they affect the wider practice
Stephenie Malone, specialist employment solicitor at Harrison Clark Rickerbys solicitors, discusses team member disputes in the veterinary practice. Difference and...
Whom to choose? Clearing confusion about appropriate behaviour and training referral services
In this article, Karen Wild, ASAB-Certificated Clinical Animal Behaviourist, explores the options for veterinary surgeons, veterinary nurses and owners regarding the...
Many owners think their pet has seen a ghost, survey finds
Over two-fifths of pet owners believe that their pet has seen a ghost, a survey by Blue Cross has revealed.
Out of the 1,200 pet owners who took part, 42 per cent said that they believe their pet has sensed something paranormal and/or supernatural, and 60 per cent believe that their pet can see things that humans cannot.
Among the behaviours that owners reported were pets staring at a space to warn them of a ghost, refusing to enter a room or area, and barking or growling at an empty space.
According to 41 per cent of owners, unusual behaviours had coincided with an unexplained event in the home.
However, the charity has pointed out that there might be a natural explanation for such behaviour.
Jenny Baxter, animal behaviourist at Blue Cross, said: “It may appear that our pet is sensing something unknown and supernatural, but it is more likely they are sensing a real thing that is far beyond people’s limited sight, smell and hearing.
“As humans, we might think there is nothing there when our dogs growl or bark at what appears to be an empty space, leading us to suspect something spooky is taking place, but they could easily be responding to something they can hear four times further away than our own hearing.
“Likewise, a cat that suddenly avoids using a certain area of the house might be doing so because something unpleasant happened in that location. For example, they might have slipped and hurt themselves and so now have a negative association with that place. Without knowing this, it might appear that the cat is avoiding this area because it can sense a ghost.
“Whether ghosts are real or not, there is enough evidence for us to understand that pets’ superpowered senses enable them to experience the world in a very different way to humans.”
Image © Shutterstock
Birmingham Dogs Home makes urgent appeal
Birmingham Dogs Home has issued an urgent winter appeal as it faces more challenges over the Christmas period.
The rescue centre has seen a dramatic increase in dogs coming into its care, and is currently caring for over 200 dogs. With rising costs and dropping temperatures, the charity is calling for urgent support.
It costs the charity £6,000 per day to continue its work.
Fi Harrison, head of fundraising and communications, said: “It’s heart-breaking for our team to see the conditions some dogs arrive in. We really are their last chance and hope of survival.”
More information about the appeal can be found here.
Image © Birmingham Dogs Home
Avian flu confirmed at premises in Cornwall
A case of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been detected in commercial poultry at a premises near Rosudgeon, Cornwall.
All poultry on the infected site will be humanely culled, and a 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone have been put in place. Poultry and other captive birds in the 3km protection zone must be housed.
The case is the second avian flu case confirmed in commercial poultry this month. The H5N5 strain was detected in a premises near Hornsea, East Riding of Yorkshire, in early November. Before then, the disease had not been confirmed in captive birds in England since February.
The UK chief veterinary officer has urged bird keepers to remain alert and practise robust biosecurity.
A map of the disease control zones can be found here.
Image © Shutterstock
3,700 pets injured in road accidents each year
PDSA is raising awareness of the dangers traffic poses to pets as Road Safety Week (17 November- 23 November) continues.
The charity reports that it treats around 3,700 pets each year that have been involved in road traffic accidents, which costs it over £1 million a year.
Although the charity advocates regular winter walks to keep pets exercised, it has warned of the dangers that dark and busy roads pose to pets and their owners. Pets which are seriously injured in traffic accidents frequently require specialist or intensive veterinary care.
PDSA veterinary nurse Gemma Renwick has shared advice for pet owners to keep safe when walking near roadsides.
If you are unable to walk your dog during daylight hours, she recommends that owners wear high-visibility clothing and equip their dog with an LED collar or high-visibility dog coat. As always, dogs should be microchipped and have a collar with accurate identification details.
Cats should also be wearing high-visibility collars, which must always be ‘quick release’. Ideally cats should only be let out in daylight hours, which can be encouraged by timing their mealtimes to take place just before it gets dark. This creates a schedule, so they always return before nightfall.
Dog walks should avoid busy roads where possible, but it is also possible to train them to be cautious near roads. When you reach a road, ask your pet to ‘sit’ and ‘wait’ before crossing a road. This should teach them to always wait when they reach a road.
During winter, keeping dogs on a short and strong lead instead of an extender lead gives the extra assurance that they will not run off – even if they are generally well-behaved.
Ms Renwick said: “Sticking to these tips will help keep your beloved pets safe from the dangers of roads and traffic – as well as avoiding any unexpected veterinary costs. Remember, a little preparation and training can go a long way in ensuring that your walks are safe and enjoyable for both you and your furry friend.”
Image © Shutterstock
GMB presenter launches dog behaviour podcast
A new dog behaviour podcast hosted by Good Morning Britain presenter and Dogs Trust ambassador Charlotte Hawkins has been launched.
Called Leaps and Hounds, the podcast features Kris Glover, Dogs Trust’s head of clinical behaviour services, who provides behaviour advice on topics such as barking, stealing items, and poor recall.
Each 10-minute episode also stars a different rescue dog in the charity’s care to help demonstrate the skills for dealing with different behaviour issues.
Unwanted behaviours are one of the main reasons that people give for rehoming their dog. This year, Dogs Trust has already seen 9,000 handovers from owners who say that their dog is behaving in unwanted ways.
The charity’s free Behaviour Support Line, which receives 670 calls per month on average, has seen demand for its services increase. Dogs Trust predicts that it will have seen a 40 per cent increase in calls by the end of 2024 compared to the previous year.
Ms Hawkins said: “It’s been an honour to work with Dogs Trust on Leaps and Hounds to understand more about dog behaviour and how best to train them.
“It’s so sad that record numbers of dogs are being given up, and it’s often due to behaviour issues. With just a few tips people can learn the reasons behind the way a dog reacts, whether it’s problems with aggression, poor recall or barking, which can help people tackle the issue.
“We hope this podcast will help people get the very best out of their dog!”
Image © Shutterstock
USPCA calls for updated welfare guidelines
The Ulster Society of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (USPCA) has published a report which recommends urgent reform to Northern Ireland’s animal welfare sentencing guidelines.
The Case for Change report suggests that Northern Ireland’s sentencing guidance is behind its contemporaries. The USPCA says that this could mean those guilty of animal welfare offences are not receiving appropriate sentences.
Northern Ireland is currently seeing thousands of animal welfare issues reported each year, with 6,691 cases reported to local councils in 2022.
Despite this, the USPCA believes that the guidance given to courts for sentencing those who have committed animal welfare crimes is outdated.
The USPCA’s report references key changes that have been made in recent years to the guidelines used by courts in England and Wales. It highlights regular updates made to these guidelines, which Northern Ireland has not made.
It sets out eight recommendations for the sentencing guidelines, which the USPCA believes will ensure those responsible for animal cruelty will receive appropriate sentencing to reflect the seriousness of their crime.
The report suggests that Northern Ireland's guidelines should be regularly updated to meet best practice and recent updates in England and Wales. There should also be continued monitoring of sentencing in these jurisdictions and future research into the enforcement of animal welfare laws.
The findings of the report have already received cross-party support and the USPCA has said it will work with all parties as well as the All-Party Group on Animal Welfare to enact the recommendations.
Nora Smith, USPCA chief executive, said: "Animals experience positive and negative feelings such as pleasure, joy, pain, and distress, as recognised in the Animal Welfare (Sentience) Act 2022. Despite this, animals continue to suffer unnecessary and horrific cruelty.
"In Northern Ireland, thousands of animal welfare issues are reported every year, with 5,916 reported in 2021 and 6,691 in 2022 to local councils alone.
"Sentencing is a complex and nuanced process; however, in England and Wales, guidelines have been updated regularly. Northern Ireland is lagging behind and needs to reform its approach to animal welfare offences.”
John Blair MLA, chair of the All-Party Group on Animal Welfare, said: "The All-Party Group welcomes the launch of this report and fully supports the recommendations from the USPCA. For too long, we have seen those responsible for some of the cruellest acts of animal welfare offences receiving sentences that do not match the crime.”
The full report can be found here.
Image © Shutterstock
Worm risk-assessment tool launched for horse owners
A free online tool has been launched to help horse owners assess the risk that their horse might have worms.
The risk calculator, ‘What’s Your Worm Risk’, is designed to help horse owners and wormer prescribers to make decisions on parasite control.
With wormer resistance becoming a significant issue due to overuse, guidelines now recommend only using wormers in a targeted way. Risk assessments can help with pasture management to reduce the likelihood of worm infection and support the use of monitoring through faecal worm egg counts and other tests.
The assessment tool, created by Austin Davis Biologics, looks at topics including stocking density, grazing with other animal species, dung removal, and diagnostic testing.
Jacqui Matthews, director of veterinary science at Austin Davis Biologics, said: “‘What’s Your Worm Risk’ calculates the likely level of risk based on widely accepted principles regarding equine worm infections and, depending on horse-specific input, will classify the risk of worm infection of an individual horse as low, moderate or high.”
Corrine Austin, managing director of Austin Davis Biologics, added, “‘What’s Your Worm Risk’ is a much-needed tool to support owners in engaging with their prescribers when considering wormer use and how to apply best practice parasite control.
“A component of the assessment’s output is dedicated to highlighting non-chemical and test-led approaches that will support sustainable parasite control as recommended in official guidelines.”
The risk calculator can be accessed here.
Image © Shutterstock
Livestock antibiotic sales at lowest level to date
The latest statistics for antibiotic usage have revealed the amount of antibiotics sold for use on livestock to be at its lowest level since reporting began.
Published by the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) to coincide with World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week, the data uncovered progress in the livestock sector, but warned of future trends.
The UK-Veterinary Antimicrobial Resistance and Sales Surveillance (VARSS) Report found that antibiotic sales for food-producing animals had remained at a steady 59 per cent reduction since records began in 2014. Antibiotics considered of critical importance to human health were at extremely low levels, consisting of just half a per cent of total sales.
This progress in reducing antibiotic use in farming sectors has also led to progress in reducing drug resistance, with AMR in pigs and poultry at an all-time low.
However, the report also identified increases in antibiotic use in some sectors. Researchers warn that, without continued antibiotic stewardship efforts, these trends could lead to AMR increasing again.
This report marks 10 years of the VMD collecting data on pigs and poultry in the harmonised monitoring programme.
It is the first time the report has included information about AMR in sheep and cattle. The VMD hopes that this baseline data will help form a better understanding of AMR in livestock.
It also begins to address a key commitment in the UK’s National Action Plan on AMR by tackling data gaps in antibiotic use and resistance.
The VMD says that monitoring antibiotic use is vital to tackling AMR, which threatens human and animal health, food security and economic growth. It references estimates that more than 39 million deaths between now and 2050 will be linked to bacterial AMR.
It hopes that the data from the report will encourage more in the farming sector to build upon progress.
Abi Seager, VMD CEO, said: “The VMD has been publishing antibiotic sales, use and resistance data for the UK’s animal population for over a decade and the positive trends demonstrate the dedication of the UK’s farmers and vets to ensure responsible antibiotic use in animals.
“I am especially proud of our AMR surveillance programme which continues to expand and become more robust.
“This year also marks the launch of the 2024-2029 AMR National Action Plan, and I look forward to seeing renewed ambition from the veterinary and agriculture sectors as they set new targets through RUMA’s Targets Task Force next year.”
The full report can be found here.
Image © Shutterstock
RVC opens new transfusion centre
The Royal Veterinary College (RVC) has opened a Transfusion Medicine Centre at its Hawkshead Campus in North Mymms, Hertfordshire.
The centre was officially opened in a special ceremony by Christianne Glossop, chair of the RVC’s charity the Animal Care Trust. The charity gave £90,000 to the project.
The new facilities will help the RVC meet the increasing demand for blood products. The centre has separate areas for canine and feline donors and an on-site laboratory to process and store blood products.
Since the RVC launched its Blood Donor Programme in 2004, the number of regular donors has increased from 19 dogs to 150 dogs and 62 cats. In 2023, the programme facilitated a total of 711 transfusions.
Dan Chan, professor of emergency and critical care medicine at RVC, said: “Working in the Queen Mother Hospital for Animals, I’ve seen first-hand how blood donations help pets every single day and the ground-breaking clinical treatment and expert care that is provided at the hospital.
“Thanks to our special donors, blood transfusions have saved thousands of lives at the RVC over the last two decades.”
“The new Transfusion Medicine Centre is essential in allowing us to expand and enhance our current facilities to ensure even more cats and dogs can be treated. We are grateful to everyone for their contributions that have helped us to achieve this important goal.”
Image © Royal Veterinary College
Independent referrals service launches in Kent
South East Veterinary Referrals will initially specialise in neurology.
Internationally renowned veterinary specialist Dr. Rodolfo Capello has opened an independent referral hospital in Kent.
With 25 years of experience in veterinary neurology, Dr. Capello aims to provide affordable and transparent care to pets and their owners across the South East.
Supported by veterinary nurse Katie Tanner, South East Veterinary Referrals offers a wide range of neurology services, from routine spinal procedures to complex interventions for brain neoplasia, inflammation, and degenerative diseases.
Dr. Capello stated, “We are the only independent specialist veterinary hospital in the area equipped to diagnose and manage neurological issues in pets. With a custom-built facility and the expertise to support veterinarians, we aim to deliver the next level of affordable, specialist care with the transparency our independent status enables.
“We will work hand in hand with referring vets, consulting with them on the best approach for their clients and always keep them fully updated on progress as each case unfolds. Initially, we are offering neurology services, but we plan to quickly upscale our operations and offer other services like orthopaedics soon.”
The service is open to referrals for pets suffering from seizures, pain, difficulty walking, and balance and orientation issues. It also treats peripheral nervous system problems and neuromuscular diseases outside the spinal cord area.
Dr. Capello added, “My focus is on pure collaboration with referring vets and their owners. I am dedicated to providing the best service at accessible prices, with an emphasis on communication and compassion. We work closely with the first-opinion vet to prioritize the best interests of their clients’ pets.”
“Having practiced and lectured in several European and Southeast Asian cities, including Milan, Hong Kong, Malaysia, and London, and holding lead roles in veterinary hospitals such as the Royal Veterinary College and the City University of Hong Kong, where I established a renowned neurology service, I am excited to bring a broad spectrum of neurology services to the South East.”
Image (C) South East Veterinary Referrals.
CMA inquiry chair speaks at London Vet Show
Martin Coleman, the chair for the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) investigation into the veterinary sector, has spoken at London Vet Show about the ongoing inquiry.
The speech formed part of the British Veterinary Association (BVA) Congress and saw Mr Coleman outline the next steps for the inquiry committee.
Mr Coleman described his "great respect" for veterinary professionals, stating his belief that the majority conducted their work with care and professionalism. He said that the inquiry was seeking to investigate how services were bought and sold, and not to challenge veterinary professionals’ work.
Discussing competition within the veterinary sector, Mr Coleman discussed how important competitive markets were to keep prices down and investment high.
However, he compared the veterinary sector to the NHS, explaining how the importance of competition becomes less apparent next to the standardised fees of the NHS. He said that this would leave clients without a point of comparison when talking about veterinary fees and leave veterinary teams without external context to see the role of competition.
Mr Coleman also addressed concerns about the impact of increased corporate ownership on the veterinary sector.
He explained that, while increased corporate ownership and price increases had prompted the market investigation, the inquiry was yet to decide whether they were justified concerns. He said that, while there may be causal links between corporate ownership and price increases, there could also be other factors influencing the market.
The investigation is now almost a third of the way through and Mr Coleman said the inquiry group had invested much of its time engaging with the profession and its clients. He explained that the long process was due the group’s commitment to creating evidence-based recommendations for the sector.
Among the evidence is data from both small and large veterinary businesses about their profitability and business strategies, as well as information about prices charged and treatments bought.
As well as investigating veterinary practices themselves, he also explained how the inquiry would address concerns about the sales of veterinary medicines and about regulatory bodies. Mr Coleman, drawing on his career as a practising solicitor, said that he understood how vital effective regulation was to the profession.
The inquiry group is now preparing to publish a series of papers, which will set out and analyse the evidence gathered so far, in the next few months.
Closing his speech, Mr Coleman said: “We are expecting to publish our provisional conclusions in early summer next year, when we shall be consulting on what we have found and what we are considering doing about it.
“This might include making orders that are directly binding and recommendations for change which would be for others to consider and implement.”
Image © Shutterstock
New areas added to bluetongue restricted zone
Part of Wiltshire and additional areas in Hampshire have been added to the bluetongue restricted zone after a case was detected in cattle just outside the zone in Hampshire.
The restricted zone now includes Bedfordshire, part of Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Cambridgeshire, City of Kingston upon Hull, East Riding of Yorkshire, East Sussex, Essex, Greater London, part of Hampshire, Hertfordshire, Isle of Wight, Kent, part of Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, Norfolk, part of North Yorkshire, Northamptonshire, Nottinghamshire, part of Oxfordshire, Suffolk, Surrey, part of Warwickshire, West Sussex, and part of Wiltshire.
Susceptible animals in the restricted zone, including sheep, cattle, goats, deer and other ruminants and camelids, must only be moved if it is absolutely essential. A specific licence is needed to move a susceptible animal from inside the restricted zone to outside of the zone.
A case outside the restricted zone was confirmed in a sheep in North Yorkshire on 17 November. The animal was traced to a premises in Suffolk and had been moved before movement restrictions applied. Restrictions have been placed on the affected premises and intermediate premises and checks are being carried out for signs of local transmission.
The number of cases during the current vector period currently stands at 162 in England and two in Wales linked to moved animals.
Bluetongue is a notifiable disease. Suspected cases must be reported on 03000 200 301 in England or 03003 038 268 in Wales. In Scotland, suspected cases should be reported to the local field services office. Suspected cases in Northern Ireland should be reported to the DAERA Helpline on 0300 200 7840 or by contacting the local DAERA Direct Veterinary Office.
A map of the restricted zone can be found here.
Image © Shutterstock
Survey highlights vets' AMR concerns
The BVA has released new figures suggesting that antimicrobial resistance (AMR) remains the leading concern amongst UK vets when it comes to treating animal infections.
The figures, published at the start of World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (18-24 November), show that 87 per cent of vets cited AMR as their top concern in the BVA's Voice of the Veterinary Profession Survey.
Of the 497 vets who responded, 85 per cent expressed concern about the potential enforced restriction on veterinary use of antimicrobials in the future. Furthermore, 73 per cent were worried about the inability to control infections after surgery.
Overprescribing, poor owner compliance and lack of sensitivity testing were among the key reasons cited by vets as the main drivers of AMR in animals. Another highly rated concern was pressure from clients expecting to be given antibiotics, with 77 per cent of vets having experienced this in practice.
Dr. Elizabeth Mullineaux, president of the British Veterinary Association (BVA), urged vets to continue working with their clients to limit the need for using antimicrobials.
She said: “Antimicrobial resistance is a concern for animal and human health globally. Our latest Voice of the Veterinary Profession survey shows that vets in the UK, like their counterparts in human medicine, remain worried about the excessive and improper use of these medicines leading to the inability to treat infections.
“We’ve made huge progress in refining and reducing antimicrobial use in farm animals in the UK, but we can do more across all species. We know that every use of antimicrobials increases the risk of selection for resistant bacteria, so we must ensure that our use of antimicrobials is responsible. This includes creating practice-based protocols for common infections, undertaking bacterial culture and sensitivity testing whenever possible, and reporting treatment failures to the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD).
“We must also continue working with clients to avoid the need for antimicrobials in the first place through preventative healthcare and encourage their responsible use and disposal through initiatives like the Antibiotic Amnesty campaign.”
Dogs Trust issues antifreeze warning
With colder weather hitting the UK, Dogs Trust has issued a warning to pet owners about the dangers of antifreeze.
Ethylene glycol, a chemical found in antifreeze, is highly toxic to dogs and can cause acute kidney failure and neurological issues. In the most severe cases, it can be fatal.
Because it has a sweet taste, pets can be tempted to drink antifreeze if they find it, including from spills on driveways and roads.
The charity is urging pet owners to make sure they store antifreeze and other de-icing products safely away from where pets can get to them.
In cases where an owner thinks their dog may have ingested antifreeze, Dogs Trust says to contact a veterinary practice immediately as prompt treatment is crucial.
The charity has provided the following list of symptoms for dog owners to look out for:
- Vomiting
- Lethargy and weakness
- Unsteady or drunken-like behaviour
- Increased thirst and urination
- Rapid breathing
- Seizures or muscle twitching.
Charlie Dobson, senior veterinary surgeon at Dogs Trust, said: “Antifreeze is extremely dangerous for dogs, and other pets, because even a small amount can lead to serious, often fatal, health issues. Unfortunately, because it has a sweet taste it can be particularly enticing to pets.
“The best way to protect your dog is to keep all antifreeze and de-icing products securely stored, avoid using them around your dog, and seek veterinary care immediately if you suspect they’ve ingested any.”
Image © Dogs Trust
World Horse Welfare marks Groom Appreciation Day
World Horse Welfare has celebrated the work of its grooms with its Groom Appreciation Day on Friday, 15 November.
The equine rescue charity asked its supporters to submit messages of thanks, which were then read to its team.
World Horse Welfare has 46 grooms, who work 365 days a year to care for horses, ponies and donkeys. The grooms are out in all weathers and are often working with animals which have been sick, neglected or abused.
Tony Tyler, deputy chief executive, said: “Anyone who has worked or works with horses will understand the daily challenges they face, especially during the winter months. And, for our grooms it can be particularly hard work with horses and ponies that have been neglected, mistreated and poorly handled.
“We felt their investment in the welfare of these horses, ponies, donkeys and the occasional mule is something to be celebrated.”
To celebrate the grooms’ work, World Horse Welfare asked its supporters to send in messages expressing their gratitude. This was done in secret so that it would be a surprise when they were presented on the charity’s Groom Appreciation Day.
It soon received over 1,000 messages of thanks from across the UK. These were presented to the grooms and a video has been released of the grooms reading their favourite messages.
One such groom is Kathryn Coombes, who works at Hall Farm Rescue and Rehoming Centre.
Ms Coombes said: “One of the most challenging day-to-day experiences as a groom at World Horse Welfare is having to accept that there will be some ongoing long-term effects of neglect on horses no matter how well cared for [...] after arrival.
“But it is very rewarding to know you are having a positive impact on the horses’ lives.”
Abi Tuckwell, who has worked as a groom at Belwade Farm in Aberdeenshire since 2015, said: “All of us love the horses we care for and when things go wrong, we really feel it, as this isn't just a job for us. If we didn't love them all, we wouldn't be working here to try and make a difference.”
The video can be viewed here.
Image © World Horse Welfare
RSPCA sees highest hedgehog intake in three years
The RSPCA has praised the rescue work of members of the public as it sees its highest intake of hedgehogs in three years.
The animal welfare charity hopes members of the public can continue to support them in protecting hedgehog wellbeing.
So far in 2024, the RSPCA’s four wildlife centres have admitted 2,002 hedgehogs. This is already 54 per cent more hedgehogs than 2022 and an increase on the 1,928 brought in during the entirety of 2023.
This included 659 hedgehogs admitted to wildlife centres in September and October alone. This is 114 more hedgehogs than during the same period last year.
The RSPCA expects this number to keep rising before the end of the year.
The charity has expressed its gratitude to members of the public, who were responsible for bringing in 77 per cent of the hedgehogs seen in 2023. It is keen for more people to understand what to do if they think a hedgehog needs help.
Due to recent mild weather, some hedgehogs have had a second litter of hoglets. There is still time for these hoglets to fatten up during the winter and they should generally be left where they are to feed.
These small hoglets may come out earlier in the evening to forage for food, and can be monitored to make sure they are well.
Adult hedgehogs are more likely to go foraging during the night and, if they weigh over 450g, should be well enough to hibernate in the winter. They are also able to forage at least once during the winter, so leaving food, such as meat-based pet food, out can help.
The RSPCA advises that hedgehogs are only brought in if they are visibly weak, unstable, injured or affected by parasites. They can also be rescued if they are clearly underweight, out in frosty conditions or found in a dangerous place.
Rebecca Macchin, an RSPCA wildlife expert, said: “When an animal is in need, the quicker they get help the better.
“By rescuing small sick and injured animals such as hedgehogs yourselves, it frees up our teams to focus their specialist skills on investigating cruelty and neglect, and reaching more victims who urgently need our help.”
Image © RSPCA
BVA Young Vet of the Year announced
The winner of this year’s British Veterinary Association (BVA) Young Vet of the Year award has been revealed.
David Charles, who works as an international business development manager for NoBACZ Healthcare, received the award during the BVA Awards Dinner on 14 November.
A graduate of the University of Bristol, Dr Charles has worked in mixed practice and as part of a farm animal team in Derbyshire. During his his time in the Midlands, he relaunched the practice’s flock health club and secured funding for breeding services to support sheep farms.
After being injured in a serious car accident, he had to leave behind full-time clinical work and began doing consultancy work. He joined NoBACZ Healthcare earlier this year.
After winning the award, Dr Charles said: “I was stunned to even be nominated for this prestigious award, let alone win it! I am absolutely delighted and humbled at the same time.
“My career has been a real journey of ups and downs so far, but I’ve overcome the challenges in my way and have had the chance to undertake and create several different opportunities since having to step away from full-time clinical work.
“I hope to do this award justice and to inspire other young vets who may also be going through difficult times to rise to the challenge and embrace the varied opportunities our profession offers. Congratulations to my fellow finalists too.”
The event, hosted at the London Marriott Hotel Canary Wharf, also saw several other awards given out to honour people and practices for their contributions to the veterinary profession.
The BVA Outstanding Service Award (Chiron Award) was presented to Paula Boyden, veterinary director at the charity Dogs Trust, for her work improving the lives of dogs, veterinary professionals, and animal owners.
Eddie Clutton, clinical director of the Wellcome Trust Critical Care Laboratory for Large Animals (Roslin Institute), received the BVA Advancement of Veterinary Science Award (Dalrymple-Champneys Cup and Medal) for his contributions to the field of veterinary anaesthesia.
Three workplaces were celebrated in the Wellbeing Award for the support they offer their teams. The small/medium practice award, for workplaces with up to 25 employees, was won by Axe Valley Large Animal Vets in Cheddar, Somerset. The large practice award went to Old Golf House Vets, in Thetford, Norfolk, and the non-clinical workplace winner was the School of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Central Lancashire.
BVA president Elizabeth Mullineaux said: “Whether working in small animal, equine or farm practices, or in a wide range of non-clinical roles, vets make a vital contribution to society.
“The BVA Awards is an opportunity to showcase the very best of their achievements, from our committed early career vets and teams going the extra mile to support wellbeing, through to practitioners with long and outstanding careers with lasting impact.
“Congratulations to this year’s winners, who should all be incredibly proud of what they have achieved not only for themselves but on behalf of the whole profession.”
Image © BVA
30 Under Thirty celebrates young vet sector talent
Thirty young professionals from the veterinary sector have been celebrated at the 30 Under Thirty class of 2024 induction ceremony during London Vet Show.
The event, which took on 14 November, honoured a mix of young veterinary surgeons, veterinary nurses, students, and professionals in non-clinical roles in the sector.
The 30 form the third cohort of the scheme, which was founded by the London Vet Show and Pioneer Veterinary Products in 2022 to showcase young talent and provide future leaders in the sector with networking opportunities.
Anyone who works in the veterinary industry is eligible. Individuals can be nominated by colleagues, peers or friends, or nominate themselves.
The winners were chosen by a judging panel which this year included Peter Wright from The Yorkshire Vet television programme, veterinary nurse and blogger Louise Northway (also known as ‘Lou the Vet Nurse’), and Jill Maddison, professor of general practice at the RVC.
Among those who made it into this year’s 30 Under Thirty were Emmanuel Oloyede, Robyn Lowe, and Jack Conway.
Dr Oloyede, who recently graduated as a veterinary surgeon, is a former president of Animal Aspirations, an initiative which aims to champion diversity within animal-related careers, and won the Student Ambassador of the Year award at the 2020 Aimhigher Practioner Awards.
A small animal registered advanced veterinary nurse, Ms Lowe is the first RVN to sit on Vetlife’s Board of Trustees. She has also volunteered for Canine Arthritis Management, is director of Veterinary Voices UK, and campaigns on animal welfare and mental health issues.
Dr Conway has served as president of the Association of Veterinary Students and played a major role in a review by the organisation into the harassment of students on EMS placements.
Dr Conway said: “The 30 Under Thirty award recognises the work I have done over the last seven years, supporting and championing students as part of the Association of Veterinary Students and RVC Students’ Union.
“It shows the advancement of visibility for students within the veterinary sector and the progression of equity, safety, and transparency of extra-mural studies. I hope this award furthers the conversation about the future of the future members of the veterinary sphere.”
The full list of winners can be found here.
Image © Shutterstock
New report tackles pathogens on livestock farms
A new report from Moredun Research Institute has uncovered the risk factors of, and possible interventions against, foodborne pathogens at livestock farms.
The study, commissioned by Food Standards Scotland and the Scottish government, seeks to reduce the risks of people developing illnesses from contaminated animals.
Foodborne pathogens are microbes which, when transmitted to humans, can cause serious illness. They are usually transmitted through consumption of infected food, or contact with products at any part of the food chain.
They cause approximately 2.4 million cases of disease in the UK population each year.
Moredun Research Institute investigated how the harmful microbes were entering livestock farm environments. It also followed how pathogens were transmitting to livestock and spreading, mainly through faecal contamination.
The research group says that it is vital that livestock farms examine their management practices to help reduce the risks.
This includes quarantining, biosecurity, hygiene, cleaning and disinfection. Livestock farms should also consider how they manage stocking density and age groups, housing, bedding and feed.
The group suggests that more targeted intervention, such as vaccination, may also be beneficial.
It recommends vaccines currently available to reduce production diseases in livestock, which can be caused by the same pathogens causing foodborne diseases. The use of such vaccines may not only tackle production diseases, but also impact the transmission of foodborne pathogens.
The full report also reveals the findings of a survey of livestock farmers, which sought to gather thoughts on the risks of foodborne pathogens and the potential intervention strategies.
Lee Innes, a professor at Moredun Research Institute, said: “We have welcomed the opportunity to investigate options that may be applied on livestock farms to reduce the risk and impact of foodborne pathogens.
“We are keen to continue our engagement with farmers to help identify specific risks along with development of practical intervention strategies that are applicable and appropriate for individual farm businesses."
Jane Horne, from Food Standards Scotland, said: "Protecting the public from foodborne pathogens requires a proactive approach at every stage of the food supply chain, starting with primary production.
“This report provides valuable insights into managing on-farm risks and highlights practical steps farmers can take to reduce the presence and transmission of these harmful microbes.”
The full report can be found here.
Image © Shutterstock