Avian flu may be spreading between cattle in USA
The H5N1 strain of highly pathogenic avian influenza may be spreading between cattle, the United States Department of Agriculture has warned.
Since March, the virus has been detected in cattle herds in eight states, including Texas and New Mexico in the south, North Carolina on the east coast, and Idaho in the west. Affected cattle have displayed clinical signs including decreased lactation, low appetite, lethargy, fever, and dehydration.
In a statement answering frequently asked questions, the department said that while it is believed that cattle first caught the virus from wild migratory birds, ‘the investigation to date also includes some cases where the virus spread was associated with cattle movements between herds.’
The department also said that there is evidence that in some cases the virus may have spread from dairy cattle premises into nearby poultry premises ‘through an unknown route’.
The United States Food and Drug Administration has revealed that remnants of the virus have been found in samples of pasteurised milk. However, it has said that there is not believed to be any risk to humans, stating: ‘To date, we have seen nothing that would change our assessment that the commercial milk supply is safe.’
Since the outbreak in cattle began, there has been one confirmed case in a human. A dairy worker in Texas who had been in contact with infected cattle tested positive and is recovering after being treated with an antiviral drug.
The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) has said that it is closely monitoring the recent cases in cattle. In a statement, WOAH said: ‘Timely and transparent reporting is crucial to maintain a good understanding of the disease situation and prevent any type of misinformation or disinformation.’
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RCVS to hold roundtable on artificial intelligence
The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) is set to hold a roundtable on artificial intelligence (AI) to consider how its use in the veterinary sector could be regulated.
With AI technology developing quickly, and companies across various industries using it more, the college is keen to start discussions around its use in the veterinary professions.
The event will take place on Monday, 20 May 2024 at IET London: Savoy Place. It will include a mix of talks, plenary sessions, and small group discussions.
Around 100 individuals will be attending from across the veterinary professions, including representatives from veterinary associations, technology companies, educational institutions, as well as students. Participants from other professional regulators and the public sector will also be attending.
Lizzie Lockett, RCVS chief executive, said: “AI is everywhere and is progressing at an ever increasing rate. As the regulator of the veterinary professions, we have a responsibility to make sure that we are maximising the use of AI for good, but also preventing it from being used in any way that could cause harm to animal health and welfare and public health.”
The conversations had at the roundtable will help to inform the college’s Standards Committee, which is responsible for developing guidance for the veterinary sector. The committee will also consider input from the RCVS’ Public Advisory Group about the use of AI from the perspective of animal owners.
Ms Lockett added: “Once we have established an initial direction of travel and have some more solid work to review, there will be ample opportunity for the wider professions to get involved and have their say. This initial roundtable event is to help us understand where the key challenges lie and what the next steps will be in addressing these.”
There is space at the roundtable for unaffiliated veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses with relevant expertise to attend. Anyone who fits this criteria and would like to be considered should email events@rcvs.org.uk with an explanation of their area of expertise by 5pm on Monday, 6 May 2024.
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FIVP calls for change amid CMA consultation
The Federation of Independent Veterinary Practices (FIVP) has submitted a response to the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), as the government department seeks to launch a market investigation.
In the response, published on its website, FIVP has called for optimism from independent practices, stating that the review provides an ‘opportunity’ for practices to improve standards of care and promote healthy competition.
The non-profit organisation, which represents independent veterinary practices across the country, has urged the CMA’s investigation to ensure clearer representation of ownership of practices. The CMA’s initial review found that four of the six corporate groups were not changing the branding of the independent practices they acquired.
Furthermore, FIVP has pressed for greater clarity of the ownership and incentives received for referrals to associated businesses, such as referrals centres and external cremation services.
Although FIVP states that the profit margins within independent practices have remained consistent in the past five years, it believes that better transparency of pricing across both corporate-owned and independent practices could facilitate fairer competition.
As well as pricing structures ahead of treatment, this would include the pricing of subsequent procedures, detailing different treatment levels rather than promoting that of the highest cost. The organisation reflects that this transparency could pose a challenge, considering a wide range of procedures, species and requirements.
The response additionally calls for a review of prescription fees, and better distinguished differences between prescribing and writing a prescription.
FIVP believes that the investigation will not only serve to ensure fairer competition and consumer protection within the veterinary industry, but also allows independent practices the opportunity to improve their own practices.
The organisation says that independent practices should use the CMA’s recommendations to prove their commitment to quality service provision and ethical practices.
The recommendations could also be used by the practices to evaluate their own operations and identify areas for improvement. FIVP believes this will better position independent practices as professional and trusted partners in the veterinary sector.
In its closing remarks, FIVP writes: “Overall, embracing the insights and recommendations of the CMA’s review can help independent veterinary practices navigate the evolving landscape of the sector, foster healthy competition, and ultimately contribute to the well-being of animals and pet owners.”
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Support helps Ukraine animal shelters make it through winter
The U-Hearts Foundation has revealed that it managed to provide more than 150 tonnes of pet food and other crucial supplies to help animal shelters in Ukraine during the winter.
Working with partner organisations from around the world, U-Hearts distributed 156.57 tonnes of pet food to animal shelters and rescue centres across Ukraine between December 2023 and February 2024.
Since the start of the full-scale Russian invasion, shelters in Ukraine have had to take in thousands of animal that have been abandoned or separated from their families as civilians flee the fighting.
Russian attacks can make it difficult to keep these animals safe, fed and warm, and the cold winters of Ukraine present an additional challenge for those caring for animals. As well as providing food, U-Hearts helped run a series of initiatives to support shelters with other crucial supplies during the winter.
The ‘Warm Paws and Hearts’ initiative provided 33 electric heaters and five generators to 25 shelters across Ukraine, as well as 111 pet houses, while ‘Operation Warm Paws’ saw the delivery of 15 heaters to seven regions in Ukraine. A bed and blankets appeal in the UK also collected 300 blankets which were distributed to shelters.
Yuriy Tokarski, CEO of the U-Hearts Foundation, said: “We're very happy that this winter we were able to scale up our aid effort. By analysing past experiences and consulting with shelters about their needs, we concentrated our efforts on sourcing and providing them with the necessary support.
“None of this would have been possible without the generosity of those who donated funds or goods, for example warm blankets, as well as without our friends and partners who helped to purchase everything that was needed!”
Donations to U-Hearts can be made via its website.
Image © U-Hearts
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
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Vet becomes first woman to complete Barkley Marathons
A veterinary surgeon from Scotland has become the first woman to complete the 100-mile Barkley Marathons.
Jasmin Paris finished the race, which has a 60-hour time limit, in 59 hours 58 minutes and 21 seconds.
When not competing in ultramarathons and other endurance events, 40-year-old Dr Paris works as a small animal veterinary surgeon and senior lecturer at the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies.
The Barkley Marathons race is held each year at Frozen Head State Park, Tennessee, USA, and features a series of unusual customs. The race begins when the race director lights a cigarette. The runners then attempt to complete five loops of the 20-mile track.
On the way, the competitors have to rip out pages from books placed along the course to prove that they have followed the route.
Since it began in 1986, only twenty people have finished the race within the time limit. When she competed in 2022, Dr Paris achieved three loops of the race. The next year, she became the first woman to attempt a fourth loop, but was unable to complete it in time.
Dr Paris has previously set records in a number of endurance events. Among her many achievements, she set a new race record for the 268-mile Spine Race across the Pennine Way in 2019 and has broken records in the Paddy Buckley Round and the Bob Graham Round.
Peter Mathieson, principal and vice-chancellor of the University of Edinburgh, said: “It is an honour to call Jasmin a colleague and we were all delighted to hear the news from the Barkley Marathons.
“Everyone at the university sends their huge congratulations to Jasmin. She is truly an exceptional sportsperson and is an inspiration to our whole university community.”
Image © University of Edinburgh
Cold-water dip to raise funds for Vetlife
The charity is seeking participants for event in May.
The veterinary mental health charity Vetlife is inviting the veterinary community to join it for a sponsored cold-water dip.
The event will take place at Walpole Bay, Margate, on 17 May during Mental Health Awareness Week. Participants of all abilities can join in the challenge and are advised to bring a towel, a hot drink, a snack, and warm clothes to get changed into afterwards.
Those taking part are being asked to try to raise £100 each to support the work of the charity.
Details about how to take part can be found here.
Image © Vetlife
Defra to host bluetongue webinar for vets
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) will be hosting a webinar for veterinary professionals on bluetongue on Thursday, 25 April 2024.
Topics covered will include the transmission cycle, pathology and pathogenesis, clinical signs (including signs seen in recent BTV-3 cases in the Netherlands), and control and prevention.
The session, which will take place from 6pm to 7.30pm, is part of Defra’s ‘Plan, Prevent and Protect’ webinar series, which are hosted by policy officials, epidemiologists and veterinary professionals from Defra and the Animal and Plant Health Agency. The bluetongue session will also feature insights from experts from The Pirbright Institute.
Those attending will have the opportunity to ask questions. Places on the webinar can be booked online.
Image © Shutterstock
Defra extends badger cull consultation
A public consultation on retaining badger culling as part of the government’s bovine tuberculosis (bTB) eradication strategy for England has been extended by three weeks.
Originally due to end on 22 April 2024, the consultation will now close on 13 May 2024. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) says that it has extended the deadline in order to give people more time to reply.
The proposals would see badger culling kept as an option in areas where there are high levels of cattle infections and evidence suggesting that badgers are playing a role in spreading the disease. The culls would be reviewed annually by the UK’s chief veterinary officer.
The proposals also include plans to extend badger vaccination programmes, including in areas where badger culling has ended. The government aims to eradicate bTB in England by 2038.
Lawyers representing the animal welfare organisations Badger Trust and Wild Justice recently wrote to Defra arguing that the consultation is unlawful due to omissions in the consultation materials provided. Defra has responded directly to the letter.
Badger Trust has claimed the extension to the consultation is a result of their actions.
Peter Hambly, executive director of Badger Trust, said: “Extending the response time for a flawed consultation is a start, and it wouldn’t have happened without the challenge by Badger Trust and Wild Justice.”
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Vet group to run teen vet nurse course
An independent veterinary group in Scotland is to run a veterinary nursing course for 15- 17 year olds.
Thrums Vets will run the two-day course at various points throughout the year, to inspire more young people to join the veterinary nursing profession.
During the course, participants will be able to shadow nurses at the group’s Kirriemuir practice as they complete their rounds. They will then have the opportunity to perform various nursing tasks including suturing, bandaging and clinical examinations.
Students will also carry out fluid therapy, radiography positioning, patient care and laboratory work.
As well as practical experience with veterinary nursing, students will learn about the studying and qualifications needed to become a veterinary nurse. Thrums Vets’ team will present talks on their own experiences, and their paths into the profession.
Following the course, those interested in pursuing a career in the industry will be assigned a mentor to support their progression.
The first course will be launched in May, to coincide with Veterinary Nursing Awareness Month 2024. It is already fully booked, and the team are planning another course for June or July.
The idea to run a course for teenagers follows the success of The Thrums Vet School Preparation Programme, a three-day course for 16 and 17 year olds interested in becoming veterinary surgeons.
The veterinary group believes that running these courses for young people will help to ease the recruitment crisis within the veterinary industry.
Ashley Wilkie, associate managing director at Thrums Vets and a registered veterinary nurse, said: “Both these courses are amongst the first of their kind in the UK and we’re hoping that they can help ease the veterinary industry’s recruitment crisis over the long-term. At the end of the course, attendees will have a mentor to support them if they choose to pursue a career in the industry.
“The mentorship is part of our ambition to help produce a cohort of skilled, engaged and talented individuals that will benefit both Thrums and the veterinary industry as a whole in the future.”
Image © Thrums Vets
RSPCA urges councillors to sign pledge
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) has urged prospective and existing local councillors to sign a pledge to protect animal welfare.
The pledge comes ahead of local elections in 107 areas, taking place on 2 May, as the RSPCA says councillors and local authorities could play a significant role in animal welfare.
As part of the pledge, the RSPCA is asking councillors to commit to five missions for animal welfare.
Firstly, they will pledge to ‘educate, inspire and unite’ their communities on animal welfare. As well as advocating for animal welfare, this will also mean educating those who care for animals on responsible pet ownership.
The second mission will see councillors ‘preserve today for tomorrow’, through a commitment to wildlife and habitat protection.
Councillors are also asked to support animal welfare in the food procurement process, including ensuring high-welfare and sustainable procurement ‘from farm to table’.
The fourth mission asks councillors to encourage empathy for animal welfare through their actions. They will be encouraged to raise awareness and build compassion in their local community.
Finally the animal welfare charity is calling for a culture of ‘strength in unity’, with all councillors and local authorities working together for animal welfare.
The responsibilities of local councils link them closely to animal welfare issues. This includes licensing dog breeding establishments and cat boarders, helping fly-grazed horses and stray dog services.
However, the RSPCA says the councillors will also have a responsibility to inspire local communities to consider animal welfare, and to use their position to influence the national debate.
It is asking that councillors support dog-friendly Public Space Protection Orders, as well as allowing pets in social housing.
Members of the public are invited to write to existing councillors to ask them to sign the pledge, and to start conversations with new candidates ahead of the election.
Lee Gingell, RSPCA local government manager for England, said: "From licensing dog breeding, to banning pets as prizes, and allowing those in social housing to keep pets, we know the decisions of Councils and Councillors can make such a difference. Not only can they take tangible local action to protect and improve animal welfare, as democratically elected officials they can also play a crucial role in leading and influencing the national animal welfare debate.
"That's why we're proud to launch our new local government manifesto - and to invite existing and prospective Councillors to sign a pledge to prove they are for every kind, and make a clear commitment to animal welfare.”
The pledge for local councillors can be found here. For a template to write to your local councillor, visit the RSPCA website.
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Scientists find antibiotic resistant genes in pets
Experts have identified two new gene combinations in a common bacteria, which relate to antibiotic resistance in cats and dogs.
The newly discovered gene combinations relate to a genetic element, which contributes to the development of antibiotic resistance in staphylococcal bacteria.
The team, from the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and the Roslin Institute, studied the bacteria Staphylococcus pseudintermedius – a pathogen which causes a range of infections. The bacteria particularly affects animals’ skin.
It is able to acquire multiple drug resistance, and has zoonotic capabilities which makes it a challenge in both veterinary and human medicine.
The research saw scientists perform genome sequencing on clinical samples collected from the infected wounds of small animals.
This revealed two newly discovered gene combinations within the mobile genetic element SCCmec, which is responsible for antibiotic resistance.
The discovery will enable the team to gain a better understanding of how the bacteria is evolving resistance mechanisms. This will be vital as scientists seek strategies to combat antibiotic resistance.
However, the team believes that the potential zoonotic capabilities of the bacteria highlights the importance of adopting a One Health approach.
Future work will also focus on monitoring antibiotic resistance in veterinary and human medicine. The researchers will be expanding their surveillance efforts, by using genome sequencing to monitor the antibiotic resistance of veterinary pathogens.
Dr Gavin Paterson, a senior lecturer in molecular and applied microbiology, said: “Understanding the diversity and characteristics of SCCmec elements is crucial for tracking antibiotic resistance patterns and developing strategies to combat infections caused by resistant bacteria.
“The findings of this study underscore the dynamic nature of antibiotic resistance and the need for continued vigilance in combating multidrug-resistant infections in both animals and humans”
The full study can be found in the Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy.
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Surrey vet school joins new European research partnership
The University of Surrey’s School of Veterinary Medicine and School of Biosciences have joined the European Partnership on Animal Health and Welfare (EUP AH&W).
Launched at the start of 2024, EUP AH&W aims to support research into the control of infectious animal diseases. It will also promote animal welfare and the careful use of medicines, with the aim of supporting a food system that is ‘fair, healthy, and environmentally friendly’.
The partnership is made up of 90 members from 24 countries and is being coordinated by Ghent University. As part of a One Health approach, research projects will focus on areas such as the zoonotic risk of diseases such as avian influenza, and reducing the use of antimicrobials.
A total budget of €360 million will be invested over seven years across the research institutions taking part. The partnership is being funded by the European Union Framework Programme for Research and Innovation, Horizon Europe, and EUP AH&W partner institutions.
Kamalan Jeevaratnam, head of the School of Veterinary Medicine, said: “Our university has a long-standing commitment to the One Health, One Medicine ethos, and we are excited to share our expertise and learn from our partners.
“This collaboration underscores the UK's significant role in advancing the wellbeing of humans, animals, and our natural environment for a better future.”
Roberto La Ragione, the Surrey principal investigator and head of the School of Biosciences, added: “With the rising numbers of diseases in animals that are spreading to humans, the scientific community is waking up to the fact that animal health and welfare are inextricably linked to our own.
“I'm proud that our university is joining colleagues from across the country and Europe, so that we can not only share and tackle these issues at a large scale, but also find sustainable solutions that improve the wellbeing of the animals that we share this planet with.”
Image © Shutterstock
PDSA calls for supporters to run 2025 London Marathon
The People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) is encouraging its supporters to fundraise for the charity at next year’s TCS London Marathon.
It is calling for those wishing to join Team PDSA to submit their entries before the ballot closes on Friday, 26 April 2024.
Next year’s TCS London Marathon will take place on Sunday, 27 April 2025, and will lead participants in a race through the capital. Since the marathon started in 1981, more than 1.25 million people have taken part.
With many runners choosing to participate on behalf of a charitable cause, the PDSA is calling for its supporters to join #TeamPDSA.
PDSA cares for pets in need with free and low-cost vet care at 49 pet hospitals across the country. In 2023, it provided 2.2 million veterinary treatments to more than 430,000 pets.
However the charity receives no government funding, and relies entirely on public support to fund its work.
Runners who join the PDSA’s running team will receive fundraising and training support from its team from when they sign up until they cross the finishing line.
Entrants into the ballot, which opened on 20 April, will be entered into a draw for a space in the running event. Those who miss out on a place on the ballot may still be able to secure one of the limited places on #TeamPDSA if they get in touch.
If you wish to run on behalf of the PDSA, registration is £100.00, and you must commit to a fundraising minimum of £1,900.
Faye Waters, PDSA’s fundraising manager, said: “It’s not just bragging rights up for grabs by being part of the event,
“By joining #TeamPDSA, you’ll be a part of something really special, and know you’re contributing to a world where no pet suffers because of financial hardship.”
To register your interest in joining Team PDSA email fundraising@pdsa.org.uk, call 0800 508 8323 or visit its website.
Image © PDSA
RSPCA appeals for homes for farm cats
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) has appealed for homes with outdoor spaces, as it creates a list of potential farm cat adopters.
The list will enable the charity to rehome farm cats quicker, potentially avoiding the stress of keeping them in a cattery.
Farm cats prefer spacious, outdoor settings to living indoors, and are often nervous around people. However, they still need a carer to provide food, water, shelter and veterinary care.
Despite the name, owners of farm cats do not require a large farm or riding stable to keep them.
The charity is looking for homes of all different types to add to their list, to allow for the many different types of cats they rehome. In the past, some farm cats have found alternative homes in a model village, an orchard and a gazebo company.
One farm cat which has benefitted from the RSPCA’s rehoming work is Archie, a ginger tabby cat. He was rehomed by Karen Owens last December, and was initially shy.
Ms Owens provided a large shed for him to move into, however it seemed that he had found a different vacant shed to move to at first. Although Ms Owens never saw him at this time, she often found empty food bowls, showing that he still relied on her for food.
He soon moved back into the original shed, and is starting to show more affection to Ms Owens – including greeting her with a ‘meow’ and eating from her hand.
The appeal comes as the RSPCA launches its ‘For Every Kind’ campaign, teaching people to rethink their relationships with animals.
Dominika Jagoda, pet welfare expert for the RSPCA, said: “We want to educate the public that not every feline will be an easy-going lap cat. Just like us humans, there are a range of personalities and preferences across each individual cat which comes into our care.
“Farm cats will need less human interaction than a typical domestic cat but they still need someone to look out for them and over time they may want to spend more time with you and allow you to give them a little fuss!”
For more information visit the website, or see the farm cats available for adoption here.
Image © RSPCA
One Health champion wins WVA vet of the year award
Simon Doherty has been named Veterinarian of the Year 2024 at the World Veterinary Association (WVA) Global Veterinary Awards.
The veterinary surgeon, based in Belfast, Northern Ireland, collected the prize at the 39th WVA Congress in Cape Town, South Africa.
Dr Doherty, who had previously been announced as the winner of the One Health category, beat the winners of the Animal Welfare, Medicine Stewardship and and Veterinary Education categories to win the overall award.
The WVA awards, which have evolved from the WVA Animal Welfare Awards, also recognised a veterinary student of the year.
The other category winners were:
Animal Welfare: Sheilah Robertson (USA)
Medicine Stewardship: Shane Renwick (Canada)
Veterinary Education: Azmi Lila (Malaysia)
Student of the Year (supported by the International Veterinary Students’ Association): Yuri Victor Calvo (Brazil).
A former president of the British Veterinary Association and the founding chair of the UK One Health Coordination Group, Dr Doherty works as a senior lecturer in animal health at Queen’s University, Belfast.
Dr Doherty said: “I am absolutely thrilled and shocked to receive this award! When I talk about One Health I always discuss it in the context of One Health in Action. Action requires many people to be ‘hands on’ and this accolade is fantastic recognition of the many team efforts of which I have been part of and offered leadership to.”
Speaking on behalf of the WVA, immediate past president Rafael Laguens said: “It has been a great pleasure to be able to meet in person with all the winners of the different categories of the first edition of the Global Veterinary Awards at the award ceremony, which has embodied a global celebration of the diversity, values and significance of the veterinary profession, personified by the work of each of the winners.”
Image © World Veterinary Association
MPs back law to make dog and cat theft specific crimes
The Pet Abduction Bill has passed through its final stage in the House of Common, bringing it a step closer to becoming law.
Proposed by backbench MP Anna Firth as a private members’ bill, the legislation has been backed by the government and by MPs from across the political spectrum. It will now go to the House of Lords.
If it becomes law, the bill will make dog and cat abduction specific crimes in England and Northern Ireland, recognising that animals are sentient beings. Legally, abducted pets are currently classed in the same category as stolen inanimate objects.
Those who break the proposed law could face a maximum penalty of five years in prison. The bill will also make it possible to introduce similar rules in the future to cover the abduction of other animals kept as pets.
Research by the insurer Direct Line suggests that 2,290 dogs were stolen in 2023, with just 16 per cent successfully found and returned home. This was the lowest level of stolen dogs recovered since Direct Line began tracking the data in 2015.
Ms Firth said: “As a nation of pet-lovers, it is vital that the law recognises the emotional impact that theft of a pet can have and brings the perpetrators to justice that correctly reflects this. Pets are not merely ornamental in our lives – they are sentient beings, and it is not right that the law didn't recognise this.”
Annabel Berdy, senior advocacy and government relations officer for Cats Protection, said:“We’re hugely encouraged to see the Pet Abduction Bill making such swift progress through parliament and will be working tirelessly with other animal charities and politicians to push it forwards. We cannot let this important opportunity to protect pets and owners slip through our hands.”
Image © Shutterstock
WHO raises avian flu concerns over spread to mammals
The World Health Organization (WHO) has spoken of its concerns about the spread of the H5N1 strain of highly pathogenic avian influenza, after livestock and a farm worker in the USA recently tested positive.
In March, the Minnesota Board of Animal Health confirmed a case in a goat kid that lived on a farm where an outbreak had been detected in poultry. Since then, the disease has been confirmed in cattle herds across eight states, including Texas, Kansas, and New Mexico.
Federal and state agencies have increased testing for the virus, as well as viral genome sequencing, to monitor the situation.
Although avian influenza has previously been confirmed in mammals such as dogs, cats, and skunks since it reached the USA in 2022, this is the first time there have been widespread cases involving ruminants.
Health officials have also reported that a dairy worker in Texas is recovering after testing positive for avian influenza after exposure to infected dairy cattle. The individual reported eye redness as their only symptom. They were treated with an antiviral drug for influenza and told to isolate.
It is the second time a person in the USA has been diagnosed with avian influenza, following a case in Colorado in 2022.
Although there is no evidence that the H5N1 virus is spreading between humans, the WHO has warned that the increasing amount of cases involving mammals is a cause for concern.
During a press conference on Thursday, 18 April 2024, Jeremy Farrar, a chief scientist at the WHO, described avian influenza as “a global zoonotic animal pandemic” following the continued spread of the virus over the last couple of years.
Dr Farrar said: “The great concern, of course, is that in doing so and infecting ducks and chickens - but now increasingly mammals - that that virus now evolves and develops the ability to infect humans. And then critically, the ability to go from human-to-human transmission.”
Image © Shutterstock
AI to detect invasions of Asian hornets
A new automated AI system could be used to detect the presence of Asian hornets, and provide a warning if an invasion approaches a region.
VespAI, developed by researchers at the University of Essex, is able to attract the hornets to a monitoring station, capture images of the insects with an overhead camera, and alert users.
Asian hornets, which are also known as yellow-legged hornets, have previously invaded mainland Europe, as well as parts of east Asia. There have also been invasions reported in the United States of America, in the states of Georgia and South Carolina.
The researchers say that, with the United Kingdom at the edge of the European invasion front, and seeing yearly invasions, the need for an improved monitoring system has become urgent.
They say that the development of VespAI will provide a robust and accurate warning system to detect new ingressions of Asian hornets.
The system operates using a compact processor, and will remain dormant until it recognises an insect within the size range of the hornet. It will then activate its AI algorithm, which analyses an image of the insect to detect whether it is an Asian hornet (Vespa velutina) or a native European hornet (Vespa crabro).
If the insect is identified as an Asian hornet, VespAI will send an image alert to the user and ask them to confirm the identification.
The research team believe that the system will prove resourceful to environment agencies monitoring for invasions. Agencies currently rely on submitted reports, meaning that they have to manually validate thousands of images per year – many of them of misidentified species.
Other parts of Europe use trapping to detect hornets, which can result in many native insects dying while having little impact on Asian hornet levels.
During testing on the island of Jersey, which sees high numbers of Asian hornet incursions, VespAI proved accurate in identifying Asian hornets. While exposed to both Asian hornets and European hornets, as well as a variety of other insects, the system was able to distinguish between each of the insects.
Dr Peter Kennedy, who conceptualised VespAI, said: “VespAI does not kill non-target insects, and thus eliminates the environmental impact of trapping, while ensuring that live hornets can be caught and tracked back to the nest, which is the only effective way to destroy them.”
Dr Thomas O’Shea-Wheller, from University of Exeter’s Environment and Sustainability Institute, said: “That’s the benefit of our system – its high accuracy means that it won’t wrongly identify other species, or miss any Asian hornets that visit,”
The full study can be found in the journal Communications Biology.
Image © Shutterstock
Avian flu impact puts poultry rare breeds under threat
The Rare Breeds Survival Trust (RBST) has moved all of the UK’s native poultry breeds into the ‘priority’ category of its annual watchlist.
The move has been made due to the significant impact on breeding programmes in recent years from the combination of avian influenza restrictions and the rising cost of animal husbandry.
The latest watchlist has also highlighted the plight of native pig breeds. Seven of the 11 native pig breeds remain in the ‘priority’ category and the majority of rare pig breeds are showing a sustained decline in sow numbers.
Tom Davis, an RBST trustee and farm manager said: “The UK’s brilliant array of rare and native poultry is under serious threat. Under the continued threat of avian influenza, there is a clear decline in active breeding programmes and when breed populations are so low, losing flocks can be devastating.”
Because of the challenges facing rare pig and poultry breeds, RBST has called on the government to do more to encourage people to keep them.
Christopher Price, RBST chief executive, said: “The government’s new Environmental Land Management (ELM) scheme encourages farmers and smallholders to choose native breeds for grazing, but it does nothing to help safeguard the future of our native pig and poultry breeds.
“Today’s watchlist shows the outlook for our rare pig and poultry breeds is a great concern, we want to see the ELM’s SP8 supplement broadened to include native pigs and poultry as well as grazing animals.”
However, the report has revealed some conservation success stories. Sheep breeds such as the Norfolk horn and the greyface Dartmoor are growing in numbers, with the latter moving out of the ‘at risk’ category.
The saddleback pig has also had a good year, despite the general decline in pig numbers. The number of pedigree registered progeny increased by 16 per cent and the number of breeders grew by 12 per cent.
Image © Shutterstock
Dogs Trust marks milestone in homelessness support
Dogs Trust is celebrating a milestone in its charity work, as it supports its 10,000th dog owned by a person experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
Through its project, Together Through Homelessness, Dogs Trust has provided over 30,000 free veterinary treatments for dogs.
As well as obtaining free emergency and routine veterinary care for the dogs of those experiencing or at risk of homelessness, the project works with homelessness services to make them dog-friendly.
Dogs Trust provides the services with bespoke support and advice on topics including dog-friendly policies and dog behaviour resources. This includes starter packs to help dogs settle in to their new home.
The project also sees Dogs Trust distribute parcels to these services during the Christmas season. In December 2023, almost 2,000 parcels of dog supplies and toys were delivered to over 200 services across the UK.
Dogs Trust says that its work provides vital support for dog owners experiencing homelessness, who may have to choose between their dog and having somewhere safe to sleep.
In a survey, Dogs Trust found that 70 per cent of homelessness professionals had seen clients struggle to access support services because they have a dog. There were also 84 per cent of professionals which were aware of a case where someone had had to decline support because it would mean giving up their dog.
One charity supported by the service is Emmaus Cambridge, which provides those experiencing homelessness with a home, work opportunities and therapeutic support. With Dogs Trust, Emmaus Cambridge is able to support people like Lee, who lives there with his dog Lulu.
Lee said: “Lulu settled into the community really quickly, she loves being here and everyone makes a fuss of her.
“She enjoys a run around the fields which is typically followed by a long leisurely snooze.”
James Hickman, head of outreach projects at Dogs Trust, said: “We don’t believe anyone should have to choose between their dog and somewhere safe to sleep, which is why not only do we provide free health care to the dogs of those experiencing homelessness, but we also work closely with service providers to ensure pet friendly support is available at every step of the housing pathway.”
Image © Centre for Homelessness Impact
Poultry health course returns after five year break
The Pirbright Institute is relaunching its poultry health course after a five-year break.
Providing CPD training for veterinary surgeons, as well as technical staff and poultry managers, the week-long course will look at best practice in poultry health.
Experts from Pirbright, alongside guest lecturers from the poultry sector, will look at topics including enrichment, hatchery practice, and field investigations, as well as virological, bacteriological and parasitological poultry diseases.
Munir Iqbal, head of Pirbright’s Avian Influenza and Newcastle Disease group, will be providing insights into avian influenza and Ian Brown, who leads Pirbright’s Avian Virology Group, will be sharing his expertise on Newcastle disease.
The course will include demonstrations and lectures as well as practicals held at the University of Surrey.
Prof Brown said: “The course is specifically designed for those who work within the poultry industry and have a basic understanding of poultry health.
“By the end of the week, students will be able to recognise the clinical signs of key poultry diseases, perform a postmortem examination, and outline key diagnostic techniques including real-time PCR to detect viral genome, bacterial culturing, and microscopy.”
Prof Iqbal added: “In addition to recognising and understanding disease, and challenges to vaccination and vaccine failure, it will provide students with the ability to identify necessary biosecurity measures for a poultry farm, perform a field investigation, establish best practices for enrichment, and understand current industry issues including antimicrobial resistance.”
More details about the course, which will run from 24-28 June 2024, can be found on the Pirbright website.
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SPANA appoints interim chair of trustees
The Society for the Protection of Animals Abroad (SPANA) has announced the appointment of Marianne Davies as its interim chair of trustees.
Ms Davies, a senior human resources (HR) and change professional, was formally voted in to the the role by the SPANA Board of Trustees in March 2024.
She is currently global head of people services at pharmaceutical company GSK, where she has worked for much of her executive career. Her work with GSK brings extensive experience in HR and change, which will benefit the development of SPANA.
However she also holds an interest in animal welfare. Ms Davies has visited several of the countries where SPANA works, which has inspired her to support the welfare of working animals and their communities.
She first joined SPANA’s Board of Trustees in September 2021, and also works with SPANA’s People and Safeguarding Committee and its Centenary Committee.
In 2023, Ms Davies also fundraised for SPANA at the London Marathon.
She succeeds former chair of trustees Dr Mary-Lorraine Hughes, who recently resigned from the role. Dr Hughes had sat as chair of trustees since 2021.
Marianne Davies said: “During my three years as a trustee of SPANA, I have been inspired by the charity’s extraordinary support for working animals.
“I am excited and honoured to now be appointed chair of trustees at SPANA, during a time when the charity is significantly developing its work to meet the growing challenges it faces from issues such as rising global poverty, political instability, and climate change.
“SPANA’s strategy for 2023-27 outlines an ambitious vision for the future of the charity and how we will radically extend our reach and impact during these turbulent times. A number of exciting new initiatives are currently in development at SPANA, which will be truly transformative for working animals and the communities they so loyally support.”
SPANA’s Chief Executive, Linda Edwards, said: “We are delighted that Marianne Davies has been appointed as our chair of trustees at SPANA.
“Marianne’s commitment to working animal welfare and our plans for SPANA will help ensure the charity can transform the lives of working animals.”
Image © SPANA
Dog saved from bottom of 15ft concrete shaft
A dog has been rescued after he was found struggling to keep his head above water at the bottom of a 15ft-deep concrete shaft in County Durham.
The grey and white crossbreed, who was at first mistaken for a badger, is now in the care of a local veterinary practice while attempts are made to find his owner.
Because of the initial mistake about his species, he has been named Badger.
He was discovered in the shaft on wasteland known as Phoenix Sidings in Stockton-on-Tees on Friday, 12 April. A dog walker spotted the lid to the shaft was partially open. Looking down it, he could see an animal which resembled a badger trapped in the water at the bottom, so he called the RSPCA.
Inspectors Steph Baines and Krissy Raine attended the call out. They used the zoom feature on a video to get a closer look at the animal and discovered that the badger was actually a dog. As the shaft was narrow and it was unknown how deep the water was, the inspectors called the Cleveland Fire Brigade for assistance.
A firefighter who was trained in water rescue entered the shaft in a flood suit. He comforted the dog and placed a fire hose around Badger’s chest and under his hips to create a make-shift sling. Once he was secure, the dog was slowly lifted out.
Inspector Raine said: “Badger was utterly exhausted when we finally reached him; if the man hadn’t found him when he did and we didn’t get him out so quickly, I have no doubt that he sadly would have drowned.
“He was up to his neck and could barely keep his head above the water. He was giving up in front of our eyes and it was a real race against time.”
After his ordeal in the shaft, Badger was underweight and couldn’t stand. It is thought he may have been stuck in the shaft for a number of days. His skin and the inside of his mouth had been blistered by the contaminated water, which has meant that he has needed to be tube fed.
The RSPCA is now looking to find Badger’s owner. As he was found wearing a leather collar and a black leather lead, it is believed he may have run off during a walk. He is microchipped, but the chip isn’t registered.
Inspector Baines said: “Badger is lucky to be alive and he’s really lovely; a friendly, gentle giant. There must be someone out there who is missing him and wondering where he’s gone.
“Please contact our appeal line on 0300 123 8018 if you know where he may have come from. We’d love to reunite him with his family.”
Image © RSPCA