32% said they find dog care to be too restrictive
29% said it would be too difficult to go on holiday
24% said they don’t want to walk the dog every day and 25% that having a dog is too expensive.
41% of those who said they regret getting a dog bought it during lockdown.
Mr Kashiv first appeared before the Committee in December 2016 in relation to four charges against him regarding his inadequate treatment of a Scottish Terrier called Tanzy which was ultimately euthanased due to renal failure.
The first charge related to Mr Kashiv’s original consultation with the owner in March 2015 and his failure to investigate for renal disease; his failure to discuss with the owner investigations to assess metastatic spread; failure to discuss with the owner alternative options to surgery such as palliative care or euthanasia and failure to explain to the owner key factors with regards to the surgery he had suggested to her, including its nature and extent, the risks involved, the fact another vet would be performing the surgery, and what to expect post-operatively.
The second charge related to the fact that, having admitted the dog as an in-patient at the practice, he failed to conduct further investigations regarding her poor condition; provide any or any adequate pain relief, or fail to record the same; failed to discuss with the owner the dog’s poor prognosis and failed to discuss with the owner the option of euthanasia.
The third charge related to the fact that Mr Kashiv discharged the animal back into her owner’s care when she was not in a fit state for discharge. The fourth and final charge related to the fact that Mr Kashiv failed to keep sufficient clear, detailed and accurate clinical records for his treatment of the dog.
At his original hearing in December 2016, the Committee found the four charges proven and also found that charges 1 to 3 amounted to serious professional misconduct. However, the Committee decided to postpone the judgement for two years, whilst recommending that Mr Kashiv agree to undertake a structured programme to improve his clinical practice, including putting together a personal development plan, having a mentor, accepting regular practice visits and undertaking additional continuing professional development (CPD).
The resumed hearing took place on Tuesday 18 December 2018, during which the Committee heard evidence from Dr Writer-Davies MRCVS (the veterinary surgeon appointed to review Mr Kashiv’s practice and report back to the Disciplinary Committee over the two year period), Mrs Somers MRCVS, (his appointed mentor), and Mr Kashiv himself.
Dr Writer-Davies told the Committee that she had no concerns about Mr Kashiv’s abilities regarding patient safety and that, in her view, he now meets the standards of a reasonably competent veterinary surgeon. She cited the fact he had gained in confidence when communicating with clients, had undertaken a considerable amount of CPD focused on the areas of concern identified in the case, that she had observed more detailed record keeping from him and that a veterinary nurse had been appointed to assist in running Mr Kashiv’s practice.
The evidence from Mrs Somers also found that Mr Kashiv’s knowledge was in line with that expected of a reasonably competent veterinary surgeon and that she had observed a good quality of care for pets and their owners from him.
Mr Kashiv also gave evidence, which the Committee said demonstrated considerable insight into his previous conduct and a good attitude towards self-reflective practice. The Committee also felt that the testimonials provided by Mr Kashiv showed him to be a kind and caring veterinary surgeon.
Stuart Drummond, chairing the Committee and speaking on its behalf, said: "The Committee considers that, having successfully completed the undertakings, Mr Kashiv is now a safe practitioner. The last two years has allowed Mr Kashiv to develop his skills particularly in the area of communication.
"However, the Committee has not lost sight of the fact that this was a serious case and that there was substantial harm caused to Tanzy.
"The Committee considers that in the intervening two years Mr Kashiv has gained considerable insight, developed better communication skills and remains open to improving his practice. It therefore imposes a reprimand on Mr Kashiv. The Committee considers that a reprimand is the appropriate and proportionate sanction to uphold proper professional standards and to maintain public confidence in the veterinary profession."
The British Veterinary Association has expressed concern following the announcement by the University of Surrey that it is launching a new school of veterinary medicine, with the first cohort of students due to start in 2014.
Peter Jones, President of the BVA, said: "Reports of a new veterinary course at the University of Surrey will be of significant concern to our members, particularly veterinary students and recent graduates.
"We are already seeing an increasing intake of students at the existing veterinary schools. Another veterinary course will place even more graduates onto the veterinary employment market putting significant pressure on the employment prospects of individual graduates.
"It could also impact on the ability of the profession to accommodate the increasing demand for extra mural studies (EMS) placements and the ability of all schools to continue to provide high quality education and high quality teaching staff.
"The end result could be an oversupply of highly qualified veterinary surgeons carrying significant amounts of debt unable to find employment within the profession.
"New graduates are already reporting difficulties in finding their first jobs with some saying that it takes 6 to 9 months.
"Last year the veterinary profession was removed from the Home Office's shortage occupation list because it became apparent that we currently have sufficient veterinary surgeons to meet demand. Another veterinary course could tip the balance too far the other way.
"The news from the University of Surrey also illustrates that a greater oversight of the number of veterinary graduates coming onto the market is badly needed to properly plan future requirements of the veterinary profession in the UK."
Oxidative stress is an imbalance of free radicals and antioxidants which can lead to cell and tissue damage, impacting the health and performance of cattle.1 Virbac says the trace minerals in Multimin are essential structural components of antioxidant enzymes which are required to neutralise free radicals and combat oxidative stress.2,3
Multimin, which comes in a 100ml PET bottle, contains zinc, copper, manganese and selenium. It is designed to be administered during or before periods of high demand in dairy and beef cattle, such as breeding, calving, weaning and vaccination. After injection, it reaches peak levels in the blood after 8 hours4,5 and the liver after 24 hours.4,5
Virbac says Multimin has been proven in 24 peer-reviewed papers and field trials of more than 6,000 cattle, and that it offers a fast, simple and accurate way to top up essential trace minerals at times of high demand, to help improve cattle health and performance.
Lynda Maris, Virbac Large Animal Product Manager said: "Trace mineral requirements are currently primarily provided through the diet and various forms of oral supplementation. However, reduced oral intake, poor absorption from the rumen and antagonism from other minerals means that during periods of high demand, even in apparently well supplemented animals, a trace mineral gap can occur between the trace minerals required for optimum health and performance versus those available."
Lynda added: "Multimin is a great addition to the Virbac Large Animal range. It represents an exciting new opportunity for vets to strengthen their herd health plans, boost practice revenue and help to further reduce antibiotic usage."
For more information, speak to your Virbac Territory Manager or visit the Virbac stand at the BCVA Congress, 17th – 19th October.
References
Amongst the proposals agreed by Council was to move towards an independent appointment system for Council membership to replace the current election system.
In addition, Council voted:
Council was tied on whether to separate the position of RCVS President and the Chair of RCVS Council, meaning that this will come back for decision at a later date following the consultation.
RCVS President susan paterson, said: “The unique way that RCVS Council is currently constituted with annual elections to Council is an old model of self-regulation which is no longer found in other professions including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, solicitors and social workers, among others.
“As a responsible regulator we have a duty to operate in a way that recognises modern principles of regulation, and best meets our objectives to enhance society through improved animal health and welfare by setting, upholding and advancing the educational, ethical and clinical standards for the veterinary professions.
"The College’s recommendations would see us retain self-regulation in the sense of independence from government, and maintain registrants within our governance framework, while better assuring the public that we are acting on their behalf.
“It is our firm belief that, among other things, moving to an all-appointed Council member system, whereby those who serve on Council are selected via an independent process based on their knowledge and experience to ensure input from all parts of the veterinary sector, will better serve our aims, as will having a better balance of professional and lay members.
"Of course, veterinary expertise, knowledge and experience will also remain a vital part of any future arrangements throughout our committee structure, so the veterinary voice will be as important as ever in our policy and decision-making processes.
rcvs.org.uk/who-we-are/rcvs-council/council-meetings/18-january-2024/
Further details about the consultation process will be published in due course.
Discuss here: https://www.vetsurgeon.org/f/non-clinical-questions/30878/what-do-you-think-about-the-rcvs-proposals-to-stop-council-elections-and-move-to-appointed-members-with-equal-or-almost-equal-number-of-lay-members/243481
DVS highlights that the phenomenon of large group veterinary businesses is on the rise: big corporations such as Pets at Home Vet Group have recently bought stakes in several of the UK’s biggest referral practices and CVS Group, for example, now owns more than 360 of the UK’s veterinary surgeries, including referral practices.
By contrast, Davies Veterinary Specialists has now reduced the shareholdings of its founder (Jerry Davies), financial director (Mike Thomas) and managing director (Clive Elwood), in order to increase the holdings of Ian Battersby (internal medicine), Ronan Doyle (soft tissue surgery), David Gould (ophthalmology) and Nat Whitley (internal medicine) and create 8 new shareholders: Louise Clark (anaesthesia), Nuria Corzo-Menendez (diagnostic imaging), Mike Farrell (orthopaedic surgery), Laurent Garosi (neurology), Mark Goodfellow (oncology), Patricia Ibarrola (internal medicine), Pedro Oliveira (cardiology), Peter Smith (neurology).
The company says that its increasing number of shareholders will build a more effective business democracy, and in turn help uphold its core values of integrity, professionalism, compassion and respect.
Clive Elwood said: "Maintaining our independence is important to us as a business because it ensures we retain the culture and ethos that provides leading multi-specialist care to all of our patients and exceptional service to our customers and referring colleagues.
"I am delighted we have managed to achieve this transaction, which represents the next stage in the development of our amazing practice. Retaining ownership means we can demonstrate that there remain alternative business models and career paths outside corporate practice. It is a pleasure to welcome such a fantastic group of new shareholders who will, I am certain, contribute greatly to our future success."
DVS says it will continue to evolve the management and governance structure of the practice as it grows. In the future DVS shareholders will set overall strategy and direction for the business and ensure effective governance by the Board of Directors. As well as clinical skills, the development of management and leadership skills will be encouraged across the practice. A strong commitment to learning, research, innovation and teaching will support the delivery of exemplary patient care.
To find out more visit www.vetspecialists.co.uk
Dechra Veterinary Products has launched free online Fluid Therapy Calculators to help veterinary staff calculate their patients' fluid requirements.
There are two versions available, small animal and equine. Both are available as an online tool or as a download to your desktop (note that to get hold of the desktop version, you need to try out the online calculator first).
For small animals, there are three options available. The M1/M2/M3 Plan calculates simple multiplications of the maintenance rate, while the Comprehensive Plan calculates fluid required to provide maintenance requirements, correct dehydration or replace ongoing losses. The third option, the Simple Rate Calculator, is a tool for calculating resuscitation fluid rates and can also be used for large animals. The Equine Plan calculates fluid requirements and infusion rates for both adult horses and foals.
Dechra says it has launched the calculators as the next component of its Vetivex Fluid support package. Along with the Fluids Knowledge Programme, this initiative aims to help veterinary staff across the UK to deliver effective fluid therapy.
Larry King, Product Manager at Dechra, said: "The calculators are a quick and easy reference tool for today's busy vet. You simply fill in the body weight and animal type, key in a few details and you have an instant but very accurate fluid rate calculated for you. It saves time and effort and ensures the animal is given the correct amount of fluid. The more effective the fluid therapy regime the faster the animal recovers."
The free Fluid Therapy Calculator is just one of a number of tools Dechra uses to support its Vetivex range of fluids. There is a range of downloadable reference documents, charts and guides available on the website http://www.fluidtherapy.co.uk/ including the Fluid Knowledge Programme and a full CPD Programme focused on effective fluid therapy.
Dorset-based homeopathic practitioner Philippa Rodale, who requested that her name be removed from the RCVS Register in July, has been convicted of cruelty at Weymouth Magistrates Court.
The case related to Mrs Rodale's treatment of a female foxhound called 'Dangerous', which had been brought to her after being hit by a car.
The dog was reported to the RSPCA by a member of the public who was alarmed after seeing the dog lying in the surgery, whining and dragging her back legs. The court heard that at this point, Dangerous had already been in the care of the clinic for 10 days, during which time Mrs Rodale had administered both homeopathic and conventional treatment, but had failed either to x-ray the animal or give adequate pain relief. In addition, the court heard hygiene and nursing care standards were poor.
RSPCA inspector Marie Griffiths said: "When I found Dangerous she was just lying on a tiled floor with no bedding and only a towel propping up her head, paralysed, and covered in infected pressure sores. She couldn’t even stand up.
"It was a shocking sight and definitely not something that I would ever expect to see anywhere, let alone in a veterinary practice.
"She was clearly in agony and had just not received the level of care and attention that you would expect from a vet. She was suffering so much that sadly a decision had to be made by another veterinary surgeon to do the kind thing and finally put her to sleep.
"The RSPCA exists to protect animals from cruelty and suffering and to defend them when their needs are not being met and we hope that this case goes some way to showing that no-one is exempt from providing animals with the duty of care that they deserve - not only morally, but because it is also the law.”
Mrs Rodale was ordered to pay £4,000 in costs to the RSPCA as well as £520 in court charges and a £15 victim surcharge.
Do you think the RCVS should issue a public statement about homeopathy, and require that veterinary surgeons inform owners about the scientific evidence which demonstrates it is ineffective? If so, visit The Campaign For Rational Veterinary Medicine, and sign the petition.
Picture BNPS
Simon Boulton MRCVS, Marketing Manager at TVM said: "Traditional activated charcoal is slow, complex and often messy to prepare. Carbodote is different – a simple, ready-to-use preparation that can be quickly and easily administered to patients when they have eaten something that you want to help adsorb. Carbodote coats the gut wall where it adsorbs elements non-specifically - thus limiting the absorption of unwanted molecules, whether solid, liquid or gaseous. Studies have also shown that Carbodote also has greater adsorbancy that other products on the market1."
Carbodote is stable and homogenous solution with no mixing required. TVM says it will even pass down nasogastric tubes. It comes pre-prepared in bottles of 100ml - enough for a 20kg dog.
TVM says activated charcoal can be used as an aid to the management of multiple poisonings and the company has created a list of the adsorbancy potential of activated charcoal for a variety of poisons.
For more information about Carbodote, speak to your local Territory Manager, email help@tvm-uk.com, visit www.tvm-uk.com, or call TVM on 01737 781 416
Reference
The NSAID's new indication is in addition to its existing license for acute pain and inflammation.
Elanco points to research it carried out which found that over a six week period, owners saw a visible improvement in their cats' performance of daily activities. There was also a 50% reduction in owner-assessed pain and disability (significantly greater than seen in the placebo group)1.
The company says the product, which is administered once-daily as a small flavoured tablet, is well-accepted by most cats, and has a robust safety profile2. It is also a winner of an ISFM Easy to Give Award.
Elanco's Veterinary Technical Consultant, Lepha McCartan said: "It is very exciting to be launching this new indication for Onsior because musculoskeletal disorders are commonplace in cats.
"Although reports vary, studies have shown that radiographic evidence of DJD has a prevalence as high as over 90%.3
"At Elanco we are passionate about keeping cats doing what they love and Onsior enables this while also giving vets more choice for managing chronic musculo-skeletal disease."
For more information, visit: myelanco.co.uk or speak to your Elanco territory manager.
Paragon is being built by the Linnaeus Group, which says the new centre will be one of the largest and best-equipped in the UK when it opens its doors early in the New Year.
The new centre follows the Linnaeus Group's acquisition of Dewsbury-based Calder Vets last year.
Calder Vets' existing referral teams, together with two ophthalmologists from its Mirfield branch, will be transferring to Paragon. Meanwhile, Calder Vets will move to solely first-opinion work.
Currently nearing the end of construction, the centre will have eight consulting rooms, five operating theatres, MRI and CT scanners, intensive care facilities along with an all-digital imaging department.
A total of up to 80 staff will be employed at Paragon, including up to 18 referral vets and 32 veterinary nurses.
Specialist services will include cardiology, neurology, ophthalmology and orthopaedic and soft tissue surgery.
Positions currently available include a diagnostic imager, internal medicine specialist, neurology specialist, oncology specialist and an ophthalmologist, as well as various nursing posts.
Ian Monteith, managing director of Paragon, said: "We are looking for the best possible people who not only have the right skills and experience, but who will also fit into the ethos we want to create at Paragon.
"It is a significant and exciting opportunity for motivated, high calibre people to help shape something that has a very bright future for both the industry and for their own careers.
"Our philosophy is very much one of friendly cooperation between all members of staff, creating a pleasant, supportive and good-humoured atmosphere."
For details of the vacancies currently on offer at Paragon, visit www.paragonreferrals.co.uk/en-GB/careers
Buprelieve is a 0.3mg/ml buprenorphine solution for injection, licensed for post-operative analgesia and to potentiate the sedative effects of other centrally-acting agents in dogs and horses. It can be administered by intramuscular or intravenous injection to dogs and cats and by intravenous injection to horses and is available in 10ml multi-dose glass vials.
Dr Rich Irvine BVSc MRCVS, veterinary services manager at Jurox (UK) Limited said: "We are delighted to be extending our range of products with the launch of Buprelieve which will provide veterinary practices with effective and economical analgesia.
"The launch of Buprelieve will be supported by our highly qualified team of veterinary surgeons who aim to deliver top quality help, advice and assistance for clinics wishing to perform best practice anaesthesia across all patient groups."
Jurox says it has been listening to the concerns of veterinary surgeons who say they want high quality generic medicines at affordable prices along with transparency as to what they are paying for each vial. As a result, the company says it is launching Buprelieve at a very affordable list price with a simple and generous introductory offer or rebate.
Richard Beckwith, country manager of Jurox (UK) Ltd, said: "Jurox prides itself on providing customers with a range of high quality medicines and we believe the launch of Buprelieve will also satisfy vets’ increasing requests for competitively priced products. We understand that providing high quality pain relief is critical and Buprelieve helps vets deliver the care they demand for their patients."
For more information, contact your local Jurox technical advisor, telephone the customer services team on 0800 500 3171 or e-mail: info@jurox.co.uk.
In the study titled 'Staphylococcal bacterial contamination of portable electronic devices in a large veterinary hospital1', samples were taken from the screen and any button of PEDs (such as mobile phones and tablets) of staff working directly with feline and canine patients. Hospital staff were asked to complete a questionnaire to ascertain the frequency of PED use and the frequency and method of PED cleaning.
The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of Staphylococcal contamination of PEDs in a veterinary hospital, and to identify the source and determine the pathogenesis of any cultured strains.
Positive cultures were tested for resistance to oxacillin and vancomycin using a Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion test and then by using a broth microdilution test to EUCAST guidelines and breakpoints. PCR was used to specifically genotype the isolated staphylococci.
Georgia Vinall, corresponding author for the paper, said: “Useable swab samples were taken from 47 devices. Staphylococcus spp. were cultured from 68% of PEDs with a median of 10 colonies grown per device. Vancomycin-resistant Staphylococcus spp. were found on 36% of devices, whilst oxacillin-resistant Staphylococcus spp. were cultured from 2% of devices. DNA sequencing identified three Staphylococcus species; S. capitis, S. epidermidis and S. hominis which are most likely associated with humans as either sources or transmission vectors."
“The results of the survey indicate that 96% of staff had a PED which they used in the hospital environment, of which 85% use their device every day. Despite the high usage of PEDS in the hospital environment, only 6% of staff cleaned their device daily, with 33% of staff cleaning their PED less than weekly. Furthermore, only 54% of staff cleaned their device with a disinfectant."
Nicola Di Girolamo, Editor of JSAP said: "This study demonstrates that PEDs may become contaminated with potentially pathogenic microorganisms. Although this specific study did not focus on transmission of these microorganisms, and therefore it is unclear what are the clinical implications of this finding, it seems prudent to develop appropriate protocols for cleaning of PEDs in veterinary hospitals."
The full article can be found in the April issue of the Journal of Small Animal Practice and can be read online here: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jsap.13289.
Bimeda has announced the UK launch of Selenate LA, for selenium deficiency in calves and adult cattle.
Bimeda's Head of Technical Services, Padraig Hyland MVB said: "The slow release product provides raised selenium levels for a full 12 month period. When injected, Selenate LA forms a reservoir under the skin and its low solubility sees an even release of selenium over a year. But it's not just the efficacy of Selenate LA that make it such a stand out product, it's the convenience too".
Bimeda says the health properties of Barium Selenate in selenium deficient herds are well documented, from prevention of white muscle disease, anoetrus and mastitis, to improved conception rates and milk yield¹.
However there are various choices for farmers when dealing with selenium deficiency.
Padraig said: "The beauty of Selenate LA is that it is one injection, once a year. You know exactly how much each cow is getting so it's very predictable. And with many farmers already time short, it makes selenium supplementation extremely straightforward and cost effective."
Selenate LA is a POM-V medicine and can be offered by veterinary surgeons based on serum levels of glutathione peroxidase from a representative sample of the herd, or as part of a herd health and fertility plan. Padraig said: "It allows vets to offer a cost-effective and licensed alternative to oral supplements, with the added piece of mind only an injection can bring.
"The long-lasting and effective levels of selenium allow injection of the dam at any time, including mid to late pregnancy, to ensure good selenium levels in the new-born calf. This also prevents those post-calving complications such as retained foetal membranes, metritis and poor calving to conception times, where selenium deficiency has been implicated".
The company confirms that there is no milk withdrawal period and a thirty one day meat withdrawal for the product. Selenate LA is administered via a subcutaneous injection from a multi-dose bottle. For further information contact Andrew Lane, Bimeda UK Sales Manager on 07917 208524.
1. 1987 (Taranaki, North Island)
Genitrix has launched Libromide, the first licensed formulation of potassium bromide for the treatment of canine epilepsy, following what the company believes to be the largest ever trial of dogs suffering from epilepsy.
Genitrix says the availability, for the first time, of a licensed formulation of potassium bromide should give veterinary surgeons and pet owners the reassurance that the rigorous authorisation process provides. It ensures, for instance, that the product has been developed especially for dogs and that it is manufactured in accordance with EU regulations. It also ensures that the product has been extensively and independently trialled, proven to be efficacious without adverse reactions, and that the necessary pharmacovigilance is in place to support it.
The company also says that the availability of a licensed product paves the way for more comprehensive information to be provided to veterinary surgeons on the use of potassium bromide in treating seizures. The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) imposes restrictions on educational materials supplied by manufacturers of unlicensed products, an approach which has created a 'knowledge gap' among many veterinary surgeons in general practice, according to some canine epilepsy experts.
Libromide tablets are intended for use in epileptic dogs which have already commenced therapy with Phenobarbital. Phenobarbital acts to increase the effects of the GABA inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. Potassium bromide is synergistic with Phenobarbital and raises the seizure threshold level in epileptic dogs.
Libromide is classified as POM-V and will be available in 325 mg tablets in packs of 100 and 500 tablets.
Rodolfo Cappello DVM PhD DipECVN MRCVS, RCVS and European Specialist in Neurology and Neurosurgery, Head of Neurology Services at North Downs Specialist Referrals, Surrey, said: "I've been successfully using potassium bromide for the treatment of epilepsy in dogs for over 15 years. The main problem has been that it's not been licensed as a medicine. With the launch of Libromide, potassium bromide finally achieves the status of an approved pharmaceutical. We will now be able to monitor quality, efficacy and side effects which will enable us to offer a more professional approach to the treatment of seizures."
Howard Wilder, founder and managing director of Genitrix, added: "Canine epilepsy is an all too common disease with estimates suggesting it affects four in every hundred dogs in the UK. It's also an illness which is not well enough understood with the lack of up to date information available to veterinary surgeons being a contributing factor.
We felt there was an opportunity to bring a licensed product to market and have invested hundreds of thousands of pounds in the process of development and trialling Libromide. We're delighted to make it available to veterinary professionals and hope its launch will be the first step in improving treatment approaches for this distressing disease."
Fort Dodge Animal Health has launched PropoClear, a short-acting, intravenous general anaesthetic for dogs and cats.
The company believes that PropoClear, based on novel lipid-free micro-emulsion technology, will deliver significant clinical benefits over conventional lipid-based propofol emulsions, and will also deliver increased cost-effectiveness and convenience to practices.
PropoClear is indicated for use as a short-acting general anaesthetic for procedures lasting up to five minutes. It is also indicated for the induction and maintenance of general anaesthesia using incremental doses and for the induction of anaesthesia where maintenance is provided by inhalation.
According to Fort Dodge, PropoClear's unique lipid-free, nano-emulsion formulation and its inclusion of antimicrobial preservatives provide the following key benefits to practices:
Dr Jo Murrell, Department of Clinical Veterinary Science, Division of Companion Animals, the University of Bristol, said: "With currently available lipid-based propofol formulations unused drug should be discarded immediately once the vial has been opened leading to drug wastage or the potential for bacterial contamination of the remaining solution if this regulation is ignored. The new lipid-free propofol formulation, which also contains antimicrobial preservatives, overcomes this limitation and will provide significant clinical benefits in terms of the 28 day shelf life once broached."
Matthew Rowe, Marketing Manager for Companion Animals at Fort Dodge, said: "In developing PropoClear, it was our goal to deliver an anaesthetic product with the same proven efficacy as the existing solution but which offered significant benefits in terms of enhanced safety, cost and convenience.
"PropoClear contains the same concentration of the established active molecule and follows familiar guide dose protocols to ensure ease of use. We have been encouraged by the positive feedback received during product trials and believe the significant advantages its offers, both clinically and financially, to practices in challenging times, will ensure its rapid adoption by veterinary practices across the UK."
Participants travel around South Africa working on game reserves, commercial farms and in poor communities, getting experience of game capture, providing veterinary care in townships and rural areas, working in a private clinic and handling and treating large farm animals.
There are also a range of weekend activities, including kayaking, quad biking, game drives, horse riding, surfing, beach walking, bars and restaurants.
Kim said: “We’ve designed the programme so that it’s suitable for people with a wide range of experience, including veterinary and veterinary nursing students, young people considering a career in the veterinary profession and animal lovers.”
For more information, visit: wildinsideadventures.com
The research on which the new indication is based is described by Boehringer as the largest and most cutting-edge study in veterinary cardiology.
The EPIC study (Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with asymptomatic MVD and Cardiomegaly)1 demonstrated that Vetmedin delayed the onset of heart failure for dogs with asymptomatic MVD, providing on average 15 months additional symptom-free time, as well as extending overall survival.
Indeed, Boehringer says the worldwide study was so conclusive - involving 360 dogs, in 36 centres, in 11 countries across four continents - that it was terminated early as it was deemed unethical to withhold Vetmedin from dogs in the placebo group.
Panny Morgan, Vetmedin brand manager at Boehringer Ingelheim, said: "Vetmedin delays the onset of heart failure in dogs with asymptomatic MVD and cardiomegaly, providing 15 months extra symptom-free time; that’s almost 10% of a dog’s lifetime.
"Prescribing Vetmedin to dogs with an MVD murmur and enlarged heart will not only extend a dog’s lifespan, but it will also have a major impact on their quality of life."
For further information on Vetmedin, contact your Boehringer Ingelheim territory manager or visit www.vetmedin.co.uk.
The data shows a stable population of 12m pets, as follows:
There were also:
The survey also provides an interesting point at which to note some historical trends. Whilst cats and dogs have always been the most popular pets, 50 years ago it was budgerigars that held third place. Since then, the dog population has grown 76% and the cat population has grown 63%, whilst rabbits have moved into third place.
Nicole Paley, PFMA Deputy Chief Executive, said: "Almost half of UK households are benefitting from pet ownership and whilst cats and dogs continue to be the most popular pets, rabbits came in at third place followed by indoor birds, guinea pigs and domestic fowl.
"A key role of PFMA is to provide educational resources on how to ensure the full range of pets get the right nutrition and we really value the role of vets and vet nurses being at the front line to pass this information on.
"At PFMA we are here to support the veterinary profession and we have a series of factsheets on popular feeding topics such as ‘Do all small mammals eat the same food’ and ‘Nutrition for indoor birds. Our pet companions fill our lives with love and joy and in return, it’s important we provide the care they need. "
For more information, visit www.pfma.org.uk/statistics
95% of the vets surveyed by the company reported success treating cats with Thyronorm Oral Solution for Cats, while 89% expected the liquid solution to improve compliance in the management of hyperthyroidism.
93% also said they found Thyronorm gave them an easier way to offer cats a low dose, or an 'in-between' dose, as it can be titrated 'to effect' – meaning the dose of treatment can be varied more easily to suit the individual animal.
Feline hyperthyroid specialist Dr Sarah Caney said she is unsurprised by the survey results: "Treatment is complex for cats needing a low dose, or an ‘in between’ dose, as standard anti-thyroid tablets are only available in a small number of dose sizes and are not designed to be split, halved or quartered. Also, if a cat is on alternating doses, it can be difficult for carers to remember which dose is due today."
Rachel Crowe, Norbrook’s Companion Animal Senior Product Manager, said: "We are delighted that overall 99% of the 200 veterinary surgeons surveyed would recommend Thyronorm in the management of hyperthyroidism, compared to other medical options."
Thyronorm contains 5mg/ml of thiamazole (methimazole). The initial starting dose is 5mg active ingredient per day, split into two doses.
Available in 30ml and 100ml bottles, with an in-use shelf life of six months, Thyronorm is available to order from all UK veterinary wholesalers.
Zoetis has announced the launch of Ketavet.
The intravenous anaesthetic solution containing ketamine is available in 10ml and 50ml presentations. The new product coincides with the re-classification of ketamine as a schedule 2 drug.
Ketavet is a clear, colourless solution for injection containing ketamine 100 mg/ml (equivalent to 115.36 mg/ml ketamine hydrochloride) with benzethonium chloride 0.1 mg/ml as a preservative. It can be used to induce anaesthesia in horses in conjunction with xylazine, detomidine or romifidine.
Ketavet, along with other ketamine containing products, has been moved to Schedule 2 of the Misuse of Drugs Regulations, which took effect from 30 November 2015. This enables tighter controls on the record keeping, prescribing and safe custody of products containing this active. More information on the specific requirements which will need to be met following the schedule change can be found on the VMD website https://www.gov.uk/government/news/amendments-to-the-misuse-of-drugs-regulations-2001
Penny McCann, Equine Product Manager at Zoetis said: "Ketavet is an important product in our anaesthesia portfolio. We are keen to help veterinary surgeons keep up-to-date with the reclassification of ketamine and with this in mind our new product packaging clearly reflects ketamine’s revised status as a schedule 2 drug."
For more information, contact your Zoetis Account Manager.
Zoetis has announced the launch of Versican Plus, a vaccine range for dogs in the UK and throughout Europe.
Versican Plus is the only vaccine to combine DHPPi + L4 in a single injection1, something which Zoetis says is the fruit of several years research and development.
The leptospirosis components of the vaccine have been designed to meet the challenges of both existing and emerging types.
According to the company, Versican Plus is the only tetravalent leptospirosis vaccine to deliver prevention against clinical signs and urinary excretion of established (Icterohaemorragiae and Canicola) and emerging (Bratislava and Grippotyphosa) canine leptospirosis (except Grippotyphosa where prevention of clinical signs occurs but with a reduction in urinary excretion).
Zoetis also highlights the advantage this vaccine brings is in its viral components. Versican Plus utilises a new CPV-2b strain, the most prevalent strain in the UK2, to prevent clinical signs, leucopoenia and viral excretion caused by Parvovirus.
Practices using Versican Plus will have the ability to provide protection at the earliest opportunity, as it has been proven to be protective against virulent challenge in the presence of maternally derived antibodies to Parvovirus, Distemper and Adenovirus at levels equal or higher to those likely to be encountered under field conditions.
As a result Versican Plus can be used from 6 weeks of age with an early onset of immunity being achieved for Parvovirus, Distemper and Adenovirus at 9 weeks. Parainfluenza and Leptospirosis immunity follow shortly thereafter at 12 and 13 weeks respectively.
Following primary vaccinations three to four weeks apart Versican Plus provides 3 years duration of immunity for Parvovirus, Distemper and Adenovirus.
Ned Flaxman, Zoetis UK Companion Animal director said: “Our research and development team has taken many different aspects of vaccination into account to create Versican Plus. As well as offering comprehensive protection in accordance with the current epidemiological situation, the vaccine is also convenient to use. It offers a flexible primary vaccination course with an early finish option from 9 weeks, important for early socialisation reasons.”
For further information, visit www.zoetis.co.uk/versicanplus, contact your Zoetis Account Manager or telephone 0845 300 8034.
Cytopoint is an injectable monoclonal antibody therapy for dogs that targets and neutralises the cytokine IL-31, a mediator of allergic itch1.
Zoetis says the new claim was granted following a randomised, double-masked, multi-centred, placebo-controlled study which looked at Cytopoint’s efficacy and safety for the treatment of pruritus associated with allergic dermatitis in client-owned dogs. The study showed that Cytopoint significantly decreased pruritus, and improved skin lesions.2
Allison Henry, Product Manager Companion Animal Dermatology at Zoetis UK, says: "Allergic dermatitis is one of the most common skin conditions in dogs.3 The associated clinical signs – including scratching, hair loss and skin lesions – are disruptive for the dog, impacting their quality of life and that of its owner. Allergic skin disease is one of the most frequent reasons owners present their dog to a veterinarian.
"The licence extension demonstrates further innovation from Zoetis in the field of veterinary dermatology, and across the continuum of care, increasing the treatment options available to manage pruritus. Apoquel remains an ideal choice for short-term control due to its ability to provide rapid itch relief within four hours4 for as little as one day.5 This enables pruritus to be tightly controlled during the diagnostic work up,7 as well as being used for longer term control where tablets are the preferred method of administration.
"The sustained duration of action of Cytopoint makes it better suited to long-term management of pruritus, particularly when administering tablets is a challenge. Other benefits, such as no restrictions on age or with comorbidities, coupled with the flexibility of the new claim, make it a useful treatment at an earlier stage for more unique cases, e.g. young dogs or those with comorbidities."
For further information, contact your Zoetis Account Manager.
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Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica has launched Buscopan 20mg/ml injection, an antispasmodic treatment for use in cases of equine colic, and an aid to the symptomatic treatment of calf scour.
A sister product to Buscopan Compositum which contains both an antispasmodic and a non-steroidal component, Buscopan 20 contains only the antispasmodic component - hyoscine butylbromide.
Craig Beck, equine sales and marketing manager at Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica said: "Our customers have been telling us for some time that they would really welcome a Buscopan formulation without an NSAID for use in horses and cattle. I'm pleased to say that it's finally here and I'm sure that Buscopan 20 will be a very welcome addition to the armoury of both equine and cattle practitioners."
Buscopan 20 is supplied in a 50ml multi-dose bottle, and is available in veterinary wholesalers now.
For further information, please call 01344 746959.
The figures highlight the burden placed on veterinary surgeons every day when they're asked to euthanise perfectly healthy animals.
Problem behaviours include persistent barking and howling, destructive chewing and inappropriate toileting. Aggressive behaviour, towards both people and other pets, is also a problem, with the PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) report revealing that a third of pet owners have been attacked or bitten by a dog. Such behaviours can cause a breakdown of the human-animal bond, leading to pets being excluded from family life to the detriment of their welfare, relinquished to rehoming centres or euthanised.
The BVA says these figures overwhelmingly show the importance of adequate socialisation of animals at an early age – young animals should safely encounter a variety of people, animals and everyday household sights and sounds in their first few weeks and months of age, beginning at the place where they are born.
Other reasons that owners give their veterinary surgeon for wanting to euthanise a healthy pet included: poor health of the owner (48%), owners moving to accommodation that is unsuitable for their pet (39%), and legal enforcement reasons (32%).
British Veterinary Association President Sean Wensley said: "These figures are stark and are likely to come as a shock to members of the public. But this is the sad reality of a failure to socialise animals from the earliest possible age – a specific time in a puppy’s development which has a significant impact on their future temperament and behaviour. With dogs, this process starts from before a puppy is even seen by a potential owner. In recent months there has been a litany of news stories about the illegal importation, breeding and trading of puppies through puppy farms. This is no way for a family pet to start life and we urge potential owners to thoroughly research where a puppy has been born and reared, using the AWF/RSPCA Puppy contract to help. Then, in the first year of ownership, and especially in the first few weeks, work with your local veterinary practice to ensure your puppy is introduced to everyday sights and sounds, including other people and animals, in a safe and structured way."
Mr Wensley also commented on the impact on vets: "Nobody enters the veterinary profession wanting to euthanise healthy pets, but this is the stressful situation that many vets are facing because of undesirable behaviours in pet animals. Vets will do all they can in these situations to avoid euthanasia, including offering evidence-based behavioural advice, referring to accredited pet behaviourists or assisting with rehoming through reputable rehoming organisations, but sometimes these options are not appropriate, particularly where the behavioural issues make it extremely difficult to rehome the animal. Vets are not required to euthanise healthy animals at an owner’s request, but sometimes, having carefully considered all options and given the circumstances the pet finds themselves in, it may be in an animal’s best interests to do so. Euthanising an animal who could have been a loving pet is the hidden, tragic cost of poor socialisation."