AUGUST 2010 Volume 42 Number 6

DEFRA decision takes us back It isn’t always easy to find Applying forensic science to solve to where we started the perfect job wildlife crimes – page 6 – page 38 – page 50

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Congress season IT must be autumn next month as a full programme of events – national Panorama programme and international – gets under way, starting with the BSAVA Scottish region’s 25th annual congress in the challenges the profession Edinburgh Conference Centre from IT took nearly a year to make, apart from these silly 3rd to 5th September. [www.bsava.com]. A Veterinary comments also made some BSAVA statement It is followed by the BEVA was originally due for Practice reporter congress in the ICC in Birmingham broadcast early this year, and watched the strong points about the need THE BSAVA issued a statement well in advance of the broadcast; it said: from 8th to 11th September had senior members of the long-awaited for more effective policing and profession quaking in their supervision of veterinary n When examples of “bad practice” are [www.beva.org.uk]; the International broadcast identified in the profession, we are all keen Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care boots about its impact. In the surgeons and nurses, before that it is exposed so that it can be Symposium in San Antonio, Texas, end, it wasn’t quite as damning as many the theme tune from the James Herriot stopped. None of us want [sic] animal from 11th to 15th [www.veccs.org]; and had anticipated. series brought the programme to a close. welfare to be compromised or the whole the 19th European Congress of Billed as a “Panorama Special” and Alex Lee, who wrote a piece for the profession tarred with that brush, so we shown on BBC1 on 22nd July, it was Daily Mail about her experiences during are all keen that it is rooted out. We Veterinary Dentistry in Nice, from 23th certainly don’t defend the indefensible. nine months as an under-cover reporter to 25th [www.evds.info] which clashes much too long at an hour and was n The vast majority of vets are caring, with the BVA congress in Glasgow’s padded out with, and “trainee nurse” in a group practice, hard working and ethical individuals Marriott Hotel [www.bva.co.uk]. among other stealing much of Panorama’s thunder, whose primary interest is animal care, The Southern European things, shots of featured prominently and former exactly why they became vets in the first swans on a lake BSAVA president Mike Jessop place. Veterinary Conference is in Barcelona n The frequency of complaints in the from 30th September to 3rd October and an almost pontificated sagely on some of the profession is actually incredibly low, with [www.sevc.info]; the BVNA conference pointless more important on average vets only getting one in Kettering from 8th-10th October interview in a issues raised. complaint to the RCVS every 15 years of [www.bvna.org.uk]; the same dates field with Without their career. former BVA doubt, the n The vast majority of vets and nurses pencilled in for the BVHA’s annual have nothing whatsoever to hide and pride Jeremy Vine, the congress but are likely to change after president Bob programme has themselves in the quality of care that they congress[www.bvha.org.uk]; the BCVA presenter, and Alex Stevenson. challenged the provide day in day out to pets across the congress is in Torquay from 14th to Lee, the under- Reporter profession to get UK. Vets charge a professional fee for a cover reporter. 16th [www.bcva.org.uk] and the second Jeremy Vine its house in highly skilled professional service and as asserted that order – and small businesses must remain financially London Vet Show takes place at Mike Jessop. viable. Olympia on 22nd and 23rd October “one in five vets watch its back! [www.londonvetshow.co.uk]. are now part of Mercury 3 BVA president 15 Rabbits 41 a corporate November, 11th-13th, sees the Vets Cross-words 4 RCVS Day 17 Behaviour 45 Now congress in Harrogate [www.vets- chain” and that Events 8 Focus on felines 20 Anaesthesia 48 now.com] and the World Buiatrics “vet bills have Congress in Chile from 14th to 18th trebled in 10 Products 13 Prostate problems 28 Livestock pages 52 Union progress 14 Young graduates 37 Business & finance 60

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Virbac Animal Health Woolpit Business Park, Woolpit, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP30 9UP Tel 01359 243243 Email [email protected] www.virbac.co.uk AUGUST 2010 VETERINARY PRACTICE COMMENT 3 Competition can be a wonderful thing... COMPETITION is a wonderful however, as the front page of today’s at a staggering pace which will thing. As the war between the “Business” section carries the always skew any comparisons with newspapers warms up, the reader is impassioned plea from David Raistrick, previous periods, but the fact being treated to a rainforest’s worth UK manufacturing leader at Deloitte, remains that our economy is of content as the publishers “How can we be this far down the list producing far less in tangible output attempt, daily, to give us more for when we are the 17th largest than 30 years ago. less. manufacturer in the world?” The paper is, however, full of Actually, it’s not really for less at all, That came as something of a surprise surprises and on the same page as secure on top of the distress as it is hard now to find anything to me, as a doyen of pub quizzes, as I manufacturing gloom comes a burst of purchase if we are to restore practice worth reading at a was firmly of the view sunshine in the form of an to an ascendant business curve. price below £1 per that Mrs Thatcher announcement that the City is There’s a lot that remains to be day which makes it THE MERCURY had sold off almost anticipating its biggest bounce in done to restore confidence in small cheaper to buy a COLUMN everything we’d ever business in almost two decades. animal practice business across the paperback each week had in terms of Apparently, the financial sector is nation but the good news is that – especially at Tesco in which a guest manufacturing, apart growing again at its fastest rate since people’s pockets will be in far better where there’s always columnist takes from MG which the collapse of Northern Rock in 2007 health if the nation’s finances regain an offer on the temperature of the seemed to fall into and business volumes also grew for some bounce amid a growing sense paperbacks – and profession – the hands of the industrial and commercial companies, that business confidence is improving. there’s scarce and the world around Chinese after some which could be seen as Of course, the real difference between midnight skulduggery a signal that firms are ...we need a solution to our the fiction/non-fiction content of with the previous owners – I can’t finally finding measure of problems lies in getting either. quite recall if they were the opportunities to borrow confidence to be foreigners to buy more You see, I’ve done it again. Given Birmingham Five or the Tamworth and invest. returned to the of what we produce the need to solve a consumer-type Two but I suspect the latter were a and we’ve tried awfully problem, I simply turned to Tesco for couple of porcine escapologists . Good signs nation, something hard to do that by a solution – something the nation does Again, maybe there’s not that much The cynic in me which will filter letting the pound fall day in and day out, but I digress. difference and this may be more to do believes that big down to the against other Today’s paper leads with an in- with making a Savile Row suit out of a business is still likely to purses and currencies but surely depth investigation into the psyche of sow’s ear than anything else. benefit before small wallets of those we should be targeting the average Englishman – I think they businesses which are those countries which, meant Briton but that’s a topic for Lack of manufacturing suffering most but it is, who bring their despite the fiscal woes another day – in the fractious Whatever the history, most of us have at least, a step in the animals in to be in other lands, are aftermath of a national drubbing by 11 long believed that Britain has become a right direction. seen... managing huge trading young Germans who did as much in an hub of service industries rather than At local community surpluses? To date, that hour-and-a-half to render the nation the centre of any serious level, these are indeed good signs doesn’t seem to be happening. clinically depressed as decades of manufacturing and that it is this lack because for veterinary practice to conflict in the first half of the previous of manufacturing clout which is survive and prosper, not only do we Ineffective formation century. seriously delaying our emergence from need a buoyant economy with a healthy Returning briefly to football, through recession. and growing GDP, we also need a the ministrations of Signore Capello in Collective flogging... It was, then, all the more interesting measure of confidence to be returned playing our few talented players in The editorial cuts a swathe through our to see the index that gave the UK the to the nation, something which will unaccustomed positions and resolutely emotional turmoil with lines like ranking of being the 17th largest filter down to the purses and wallets of playing an ineffective formation, we “Hang your heads in shame!” and so, manufacturing economy, where we those who bring their animals in to be seem to insist on a little national bearing in mind that this is an languish well outside the top 10 seen and in particular those who bring intransigence in the face of irrefutable expensive, seemingly intelligent nations, nine places behind Germany their healthy animals in to us to be proof to the contrary. broadsheet, heaven only knows what and 13 behind the US. seen. Maybe, one day, the FA and our the red tops will have been demanding: The more chilling figure was that Few of us doubt that, even in times trading advisers will all learn that nothing less than a collective flogging the UK was, last year, responsible for of acute financial stress, the vast adopting a new strategy can be both or perhaps incarceration in the Tower – just 2.6% of the world’s manufacturing majority of pet owners will continue to productive and effective. enough to curdle the very milk on output, compared to 5.5% in 1980. bring their sick and injured pets into As we know, competition can be a one’s breakfast cornflakes. True, the BRIC countries of Brazil, the practice for treatment but it is the wonderful thing – so long as we get It’s not all concentrated on football, Russia, India and China are expanding elective purchasing that we need to through.

Veterinary Practice is an independent monthly publication for members of the veterinary profession in the UK. It is mailed free to all veterinary surgeons in Website: www.veterinary-practice.com practice and is available on subscription (£36 a year) to others interested. Published monthly by Advertising and subscriptions: © VP Publishing Ltd (2010): no part of Editor: David Ritchie, BA, HonAssocRCVS this publication may be reproduced in VP Publishing Ltd JCA Media Group Ltd ([email protected]) any form (except for 30 Diamond Ridge, Camberley, Lion Lane, Needham Market, Editorial consultant: John Tandy, BVSc, review purposes) Surrey GU15 4LD Suffolk IP6 8NT MRCVS without the express VP Telephone: 01276 686654 Telephone: 01449 720881 Advertising contact: Jennie Watson permission of the editor. PUBLISHING LTD Fax: 01276 63307 Fax: 01449 722772 ([email protected]) Printed by Buxton Press E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Design: Simon Wyatt Buxton, Derbyshire 4 CROSS-WORDS VETERINARY PRACTICE AUGUST 2010 ‘The information superhighway’

I AM writing this using a free With a bit more time then, quality of and overall results. bulbi...”, and so on. downloadable office suite due to the information can be prioritised over A Mecca for meta analysis is found A reasonable answer and useful, but practice copy of Windows Office speed of acquisition. You may, however, in the Cochrane collaboration library I would be unable to trust it as I don’t 2000 finally showing its age when also want something up to date and where large numbers of studies in know the author or the publication. If I run on a new computer. new. Peer-reviewed papers are up to human health are brought together and could Google up a publication I trusted, Oh, the days before online licensing. date and of high quality, but one paper put through their statistical and that would be better. More of that later. It looks remarkably similar to Mr Gate’s does not equal the right answer: its methodological paces. This is an Next “Wikipedia” and “Wiki vet”. I version but has the added benefits of (a) conclusions and methods need to be amazing resource for doctors and public could not find anything at all. This is working and (b) being free – which to tested by peers in further experiments health professionals (although a GP probably better than misinformation me are two major selling points over its or trials and results repeated for its friend admitted he has heard of it but though! nearest rivals. If this conclusions to be never has the time to use it). Then pubmed: this is an extract appears unintelligible accepted. from the first regarding treatment, and in print then I have When dealing with Finding new conclusions there were many more. “To compare either been proved clinical findings and As well as testing large numbers of large effects of orally administered tepoxalin, wrong in the above or treatments, this is studies, it can also pull together small carprofen, and meloxicam for just drunk too much especially pertinent. studies and find new conclusions that controlling aqueocentesis-induced whilst writing it. Academic papers also the original studies just weren’t large anterior uveitis in dogs, as determined The way we tend to be quite enough to prove. (To find it log on to by measurement of aqueous acquire information esoteric to us in pubmed and there’s a link). prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) (and tools such as this practice, as only Textbooks are kind of reviews as concentrations. ANIMALS: 38 mixed- one I am using now) something new will get well, and are usually authored by many breed dogs. PROCEDURES: Dogs has changed markedly GARETH CROSS published in a peer- experts and well referenced to peer- were allotted to a control group and 3 over the last decade wants a veterinary reviewed journal. reviewed papers. The downside? They treatment groups. Dogs in the control and the volume of Cochrane to help One drug are usually a few years out of date when group received no medication. Dogs in what is accessible has practitioners see the company’s trial results, they go to press. This may not be each....” increased hugely as wood for the trees published in a sanitised altogether a bad thing – see later. This would score highly on detail, is well. We constantly glossy format, do not So we all probably use peer-reviewed and is a need information during necessarily tell the whole some or all of the I would need to placebo-controlled trial. the average working day as practising story. Also, when looking at a paper, the above resources However, I would need vets and have lots of options as to experimental methods and statistical depending on the do further to do further literature where to look for it. methods applied to the results need to situation – a quiet day literature searches to validate its We are also encouraged to practise be scrutinised. Was it a double-blinded reading up on an searches to findings and it is “evidence-based medicine”. This is a placebo-controlled study (best), a cohort obscure case or a quick validate its obviously of no help phrase that has always intrigued me as I study, a case series? Were surrogate exit from a consult findings and it is whatsoever if I am in a cannot really imagine what alternative outcomes used? room to check a hurry and want to know we have. It is a bit like saying we have to textbook or ask a obviously of no what to do with the dog practise “legs-based walking” or play Surrogate outcomes colleague. Down at the help whatsoever sat in the consult room tennis on “laws of physics-based I have recently learned about surrogate bottom of the scale of if I am in a hurry with the sore eye. principles”. outcomes and feel the need to pass it trustworthiness comes and want to know A better bet might How else would anyone practise on. Maybe most of you can spot them a “The Internet”. be pubmed reviews: medicine? Who practises on “medicine mile off, but for the rest of us, I did a quick trial on what to do with “Uveitis is a commonly with no evidence” or bases treatments surrogate outcomes are tricks used by information gathered the dog sat in the misdiagnosed on what they’ve just made up? OK, I drug companies. A surrogate outcome from the internet. I consult room with ophthalmic condition guess to some extent we all do and all is, for example, when they say that drug chose a question I knew the sore eye. with a wide aetiological never do. So where do we get the A is meant to cause clinical outcome x. the answer to (a good base and often the cause evidence from then? Instead of showing you a trial where way of testing any resource, e.g. when cannot be established. Uveitis can be drug A causes x, they go on to say: browsing a new textbook) and asked the associated with systemic diseases like Evidence inserted into us... clinical outcome x has been associated internet for the answer – my only feline infectious peritonitis, feline Well, initially we all come pre-packed with a rise in chemical z in the body. We criterion being that the answer had to be immunodeficiency virus, feline with five years worth of evidence can show that our drug A causes a rise written by vets for vets. leukaemia virus, lymphoma, inserted into us during vet school. And in chemical z, therefore it must also toxoplasmosis and canine ehrlichiosis. the stuff we are taught there we have to cause outcome x! Putting the question... The classification and general clinical just believe (I’m simplifying here, stay The rise in z is the surrogate The question: “How do you treat uveitis signs....” with me...). So new grads have it easy outcome used to “prove” outcome x. in dogs?” This is looking like it may be of for once. They usually do this if the trials showed Firstly, straight “Google”. The more interest to a practitioner and What about the rest of us, where do that drug A did not, in fact, cause answer: “The aim of treatment is to would definitely be one to read up on we look for our evidence to base our clinical outcome x at all, but they did treat the uveitis, to treat the underlying one evening or quiet afternoon (as long practice on after the evidence we find it caused a rise in z, and as they can condition and to reduce pain. as you spotted that the review was based graduated with has faded in memory kind of find a link between z and x, Medications include systemic and/or on South African cases and so all the and become out of date? drug A must work! topical steroids, NSAIDs, topical infectious diseases will be different). We all have our own means, and we A step up from individual mydriatic and antibiotics if Veterinary Ophthalmology magazine also need to consider conflicting papers is to look for reviews of indicated... gave me lots of articles with catchy titles priorities and characteristics of where academic papers and meta- “Complications in uveitis like: we look. Sometimes speed is the most analysis. These pull together include posterior synechia • Surgical management and histologic important factor, so you ask a colleague, different papers, scrutinise the between lens and iris, iris and immunohistochemical features of a “I’ve got this cat in the consult room....” methods and statistical bombé, secondary glaucoma cataract and retrolental plaque – no time to do major research, but interpretation and discuss the corneal oedema, cataract, secondary to persistent hyperplastic then you are relying on the opinion of results of them all, possibly retinal detachment, iris atrophy, tunica vasculosa lentis/persistent one person. finding some significant trends retinal atrophy and phthisis hyperplastic primary vitreous AUGUST 2010 VETERINARY PRACTICE 5

(PHTVL/PHPV) in a Bloodhound minefield, and sometimes the “best”, puppy; and the relatively sparsely e.g. an academic journal you subscribe entitled to, is less helpful in some situations than • Immunohistochemical characterization a general search engine. The middle of intraocular metastasis of a canine ground I think has to be textbooks, transmissible venereal tumor; whether pilfered online or in real form and many more. on the shelf. So useful for researching a case for a Personally, I prefer the real ones, but casebook, or for a really in-depth trawl online access is useful for unusual of the literature but not the best for subject areas. Most vets have textbooks everyone on a day-to-day basis. and subscribe to journals that interest them, and online access may be useful No veterinary section yet... for the occasional case you see outside The Cochrane library has no veterinary your normal comfort zone. section yet so here is an example of an A well-referenced textbook fulfils entry for human uveitis: “This is the most of the right criteria in terms of protocol for a review and there is no quality of information, except for being abstract. The objectives are as follows: right up to date. This study will systematically review the However, the novel is not always the evidence from all randomised or quasi- best, and as can be seen from the randomised controlled trials examining excerpts above, hot-off-the-press the effects of antibiotic and other journals aren’t actually that useful for us interventions for the treatment of in practice, or intended to be. We are people....” lucky in the veterinary world to have You get the idea: they’re not messing many peer-reviewed clinical journals that about. can fill the time gap between textbook And lastly, the land where textbook and the current trends. meets internet, Chinese-data-entry- Despite having written over 2,000 sweatshop meets the great publishing words [sorry ed.] on the subject of houses. A world where copyright law getting the right information, I am by seems to be laughed at, a huge online no means an expert. And that is the library where we are free to browse and point. drink beer whilst doing so: “Google Books”. At the sharp end A search here took me to the I am however, like most of you reading correct page on “Slatter’s this, the one in the consult room, or in Fundamentals...” textbook (a newer the lab. The one at the sharp end who version than mine) and also “Gelat”, may have been well trained in clinical one of the standard texts, the matters and very experienced, but when “Ettinger” of the eye world. It did it comes to knowing your cohort from prohibit access to another popular your case controlled, what a p value textbook but allowed viewing of one really is, etc., we are not so good. recent text written by UK If I read a good academic paper on ophthalmologists including some of Dr a successful novel treatment, am I the Mould’s photographs. It even one to decide that it should be used in highlighted the search words. practice? In some cases I may be, but The whole book was there in my generally it might be better to let it filter kitchen to be browsed and interrogated. through to the clinical journals, or even This has all the benefits and drawbacks a textbook. of real textbooks but the advantages of We need a way of seeing the wood being free, a huge range of books is for the trees, and we need the skills to available, and you get to feel a bit be able to filter through the vast sea of naughty whilst doing your homework as information out there. Until someone it can’t be right that you can just read sets up a veterinary Cochrane, we will them all for free? have to carry on making our own So acquiring information is a judgements. IMPROVE INTERNATIONAL The article by Nicki Reed on Feline chronic kidney disease (page 25) is from a paper presented at the Northern Vet Show 2010, where Improve International organised 23 clinical CPD sessions. Readers interested in feline practice may also be interested in Improve International’s modular programme in that subject. Commencing in November 2010, this programme comprises 12 taught modules run as six, two-day sessions, covering the key areas of feline medicine. The programme will be held at Improve International’s Training Centre near Swindon in Wiltshire. Delegates can attend selected modules from the programme or enrol for the entire 12. They can also study for a valuable Postgraduate Certificate in Feline Practice (GPCertFelP), awarded by the European School of Veterinary Postgraduate Studies (ESVPS). For further details or to register an interest, please telephone 01793 759159 or visit www.improvecpd.com. 6 VIEWPOINT VETERINARY PRACTICE AUGUST 2010 Back where we started ... with a State Veterinary Service THE wheel has turned full circle considered it to be something of a work in Animal Health speak and not surprisingly we find criminal act to break up an of low morale amongst its ourselves back almost at the exact organisation that provided such a employees and especially point where we started. complete and high quality service to amongst the vets who feel After nearly 20 years or so, the the livestock producers of the country. that their roles have been Government Veterinary Laboratory A service that was quite literally the denigrated to little more than Agency and the Government envy of the world. And so I do technicians. They tell me that Veterinary Field genuinely welcome the they are no longer allowed to Service (now Animal recent amalgamation use veterinary judgement but Health, previously PERISCOPE and hope that must follow their instructions known as the State continues the series whoever’s idea it was to the letter. Veterinary Service) are of reflections on issues they have at last seen Reading between the lines of what due to be reunited. of current concern good sense and are is reported in the broad street press, “What a good keen to right the errors the removal of the power to use administrators presumably getting the idea,” some will say. of the past. professional judgement does not sack. Many of them probably the self-same By good sense I mean that I hope appear to be confined to the State I for one cannot help but feel a persons who said “What a good idea” the new organisation will once again Veterinary Service (I make no apology little gleeful when I hear this because when the two organisations parted have veterinary control right at the top for using that name and offer it up as a it means that the balance of power company back in the 1990s. of the management structure. We suggestion for renaming the new between professionals and bureaucrats Call me a bit odd if you like but shall, of course, see how much of this agency!). might at last be starting to shift back for the life of me I can’t understand is just wishful thinking on my part to where I think it should rightly be. what has changed that has made both once the new chief executive and new Stripped of powers Hopefully, the dog will start to wag these diametrically opposed actions management board have been It appears that in all sectors of the the tail again rather than the other way such a “good idea”. It seems obvious appointed. public service, including the police, round. Monkeys and organ grinders to me that one of them must be/have I think we will then have a good teachers, social workers and the health should also start to take note. been very wrong indeed. And my idea as to which direction the new service, professionals have been So where does that leave the new money is on the initial separation organisation is likely to be headed. stripped of their powers of judgement State Veterinary Service (that name having been a gross misjudgement. Why do I feel as I do? Well, friends and have instead been forced to follow really trips off the tongue now, doesn’t At that time back in the nineties I and colleagues of mine who currently procedures laid down by increasing it?) that is to emerge like the Phoenix tiers and armies of managers and from the ashes? Hopefully, vets will be administrators (who have somewhat allowed to, and be encouraged to, take self-indulgently elevated their own control so that they are given back positions to highly paid and highly some autonomy to make veterinary pensioned grades). decisions without fear of censure. And whilst procedures are obviously necessary to ensure some More respect for OVs sort of consistency, accountability and It is also to be hoped that those vets auditability, they can also be used in at the top will stand up for the the following much more unproductive profession and question decisions ways. from a veterinary perspective once Managers can use them as a tool more. with which to “beat” those who do the Hopefully, those of us who work real work (“deliver the service” in as OVs will be treated with a little modern parlance), whenever they stray more respect rather than being seen from the written guidance. And those as someone whose arm can be who do the work (“deliver the twisted in an emergency (remember service”), can hide behind them as an how we galloped to the rescue during excuse for becoming totally risk averse 2001 like the cavalry on all those 60s- and being unable to make any decision style Westerns?) and for the rest of if they can find no guidance in the the time being bullied and instructions. blackmailed into undercutting each other for our services. Paralysis and stagnation Hopefully, we can enter into a real The result? Paralysis and stagnation partnership with the new State both in terms of the professional Veterinary Service and build an development of the individuals organisation that will once more concerned and of course the overall become the envy of the world. level and quality of the service that What I fear, though, is that a the organisation is supposed to great opportunity will be missed as provide. no one at or near the top of the The new coalition Government veterinary tree will want to rock the appears to have got to grips with the boat for fear of being the first to fall problem rather rapidly and has already overboard. announced that the running of certain What I do know is that we live in hospital trusts is to be put back in the interesting times and that keeping a hands of clinical consultants with the close watch on things will be an current senior managers and exciting ride. You have been warned. Get to the Heart of the Matter Cardiopet® proBNP

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IDEXX Reference Laboratories 8 EVENTS VETERINARY PRACTICE AUGUST 2010 BVA congress to showcase Scottish expertise THIS year’s BVA congress couldn’t BVA last visited Glasgow in 1989 clinical CPD, and a lively social be more distinctively Scottish in during Walter Beswick’s presidency. programme, Prof. Reilly is optimistic flavour if it arrived wrapped up in a That meeting marked a significant that the meeting will draw colleagues tartan shortbread tin. The event change from previous years in being from every corner of the United being held in Glasgow from 23rd to held in a city centre hotel rather than an Kingdom. But he is also keen to 25th September is a recognition of academic campus. The congress has encourage a good attendance by local the huge contribution made north of continued to evolve since that time members of the profession. the Border to the UK veterinary although key features remain the same. “We are going to have an event in a profession, and both a celebration of It may be no surprise to find that Scottish location, under a Scottish Scottish culture and its citizens’ love the introduction of new legislation to president and showcasing Scottish of a good argument. deal with the problem of dangerous expertise, so there is only one thing else BVA presidents normally play a dogs and the role of vets in preventing international stage that the one BVA needed...” leading role in shaping the association’s the spread of antibiotic resistant component that will be hosting its own The sentence was left unfinished but annual meeting and this has certainly bacteria remain as contentious today as sessions at the meeting is the BVA the implication was clear – as an appeal been the case for the current they were 21 years ago. Overseas Group. It has organised a to park Scottish posteriors on the incumbent, Professor Bill Reilly, a local In contrast, the co-ordination of session in which Scotland-based furniture at the Glasgow Marriott hotel. man and a 1970 graduate animal health policies speakers will describe their efforts to of the Glasgow between the four improve the livelihoods of livestock Scottish congress marks veterinary school. He devolved farmers in Africa through the 25th anniversary with has chosen “Vets and administrations and the development of new diagnostic tools move to Edinburgh the public good” as the government emphasis and therapies for major disease theme for the meeting on sharing the costs of challenges such as foot-and-mouth. THE BSAVA Scottish Region’s 25th and, indeed, his whole previews the 2010 livestock diseases are The BVA is always trying to Annual Congress is to be held in presidential year. BVA congress – and hot topics now but anticipate and respond to its members’ Edinburgh from 3rd to 5th September. With his several other coming would have been concerns. So both the contentious issues The venue is the Edinburgh background in public events distant dots on the and non-clinical CPD sessions will Conference Centre at Heriot-Watt health, Prof. Reilly radar for those address some of the legal issues which University, Riccarton, Edinburgh EH14 might be expected, attending the last members say are currently causing 4AS. when helping draw up the congress Glasgow congress. significant problems for the grass-roots Speakers include Derek Flaherty, programme, to highlight the Over the past two decades the flair practitioners. Sue Paterson and Amanda Boag who veterinarian’s role in controlling and professionalism shown by the BVA’s will speak on anaesthesia, analgesia, zoonotic disease. But his definition of main specialist divisions in organising Advice for witnesses dermatology and critical care. Topics the public good encompasses the wide educational events for members has These will include advice for those for nurses include anaesthesia and range of disciplines in which the continued to grow. So much so that in called as witnesses in court cases analgesia and emergency/critical care. profession can seek to safeguard the recent years the BVA has recruited involving alleged welfare abuses and in There will also be a management health and welfare of all domestic those divisions in setting up parallel teasing out the respective responsibilities stream. species and their human owners. sessions for members wanting to season of vets on both sides of the divide The cost for the two days of CPD their political debates with clinical CPD. under the current employment and the black tie dinner is £150 for vets What is the public good? This year the parent association is legislation. and £100 for nurses. To view the full He points out that in times of austerity making use of local knowledge in The showpiece Wooldridge programme see the BSAVA website. there is a much greater emphasis on helping to provide members with an Memorial Lecture will be given this year The booking deadline is 27th August: defining what exactly is the public good omnivorous diet. by another Glasgow graduate, Professor for a registration form, e-mail –a question which will be the focus of “We have such a range of veterinary Stuart Reid. He will be addressing many [email protected]. debate in the “contentious issues” excellence in the central belt of Scotland of the issues that Bill Reilly has Single room accommodation is sessions at the meeting. with the two veterinary schools in identified as key to his presidential year. available at the university and Professional politics are the raison Glasgow and Edinburgh, the Scottish The current dean of the Faculty of discounted room rates are available at d’etre for the BVA congress but to attract Agricultural College, the Roslin and Veterinary Medicine at Glasgow will be several hotels in the city centre: Premier as wide an audience as possible, the Moredun research institutes, etc. So we discussing the public good and the Inn Haymarket, Apex City Hotel, meeting offers three parallel streams – thought this was an opportunity to fly contribution made by all branches of Novotel Edinburgh Centre and the the contentious issues, clinical and non- the flag for this expertise, which may be the profession. Caledonian Hilton. clinical CPD – which attendees can local but is of international standing,” He believes there is a lack of Delegates will be able to start sample according to their individual says Prof. Reilly. appreciation among the public and even registering on the Friday afternoon and tastes. It is in recognition of the among the profession itself of the value the weekend’s events will commence on contribution that of a veterinary training in tackling some Friday evening with a free drinks veterinarians of the major problems facing society at reception in the ECC exhibition hall. make to animal home and abroad. The 25th anniversary gala dinner and human With such a broad ranging mix of will be held on Saturday evening at welfare on the professional politics, clinical and non- Dynamic Earth in the centre of Edinburgh. The Earthscape galleries there will be open for delegates to visit during the drinks reception before heading to the Stratosphere for the meal and ceilidh. “Delegates attending the 25th Annual Scottish Veterinary Congress BVA presidents present (Professor Bill Reilly), future (Harvey are ensured the highest quality of Locke – due to take office during the AGM at next month’s veterinary CPD and an unrivalled social congress) and past (John Tandy – 1980-81) pictured at Royal programme in this most cosmopolitan College Day last month. Right: Bells Bridge and the Armadillo of cities,” says Ross Allan, chairman of exhibition centre in Glasgow. the BSAVA’s Scottish region. Nelio®...tailor-made benazepril

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1. Gfk data January 2010 2. King JN & Font A (2002) Effect of benazepril in chronic renal insufficiency in cats: Interim results from the Benric clinical trial WSAVA Congress 3. The Bench Study Group (1999) The effect of benazepril on survival times and clinical signs of dogs with congestive heart failure: Results of a multicenter, prospective, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, long-term clinical trial Journal of Veterinary Cardiology 1 (1) pp 7-18 Science is improved understanding

NO.01.03/2010 10 EVENTS VETERINARY PRACTICE AUGUST 2010 ‘Art and science’ at equine congress in ICC WITH summer well and truly upon are increasingly realising the the mare, and also scanning for us, BEVA’s annual congress is only importance of dental care. pregnancy diagnosis. just around the corner, and will run Common themes from everyday Meanwhile, in the fourth hall, from 8th to 11th September in practice, such as wolf teeth, seating the interactive case discussions on wound Birmingham. The theme is The art bit and achieving excellent radiographs management will take place in the and science of veterinary medicine. of the head, will be presented, with morning, followed by some very useful Not only will the programme be panel discussions and case anaesthesia and analgesia presentations packed full of extremely presentations providing in the afternoon. The fifth hall will high quality plenty of opportunity feature clinical pathology in the presentations on for reinforcement of morning, with a stimulating clinical equine medicine and knowledge gleaned. genetics forum in the afternoon, surgery, but there will The concepts will followed by a very interesting welfare also be a number of become more session, chaired by Nathaniel White, comparative sessions advanced as the day president of the AAEP. presented by experts goes on, but will still Saturday begins with the enduringly in human medicine. be relevant to the popular lameness panel, followed by a This will provide a general practitioner. session on the foot. After lunch, the opportunities for socialising. The broad, well-rounded The second hall imaging panel will focus this year on complimentary president’s reception in perspective of some SARAH BEARDALL will feature cardiology pre-purchase radiographs, and will be the trade show hall on Wednesday 8th of the issues that provides a summary in the morning, followed by a session on regional will include talks on equestrian art and affect both people and of what’s on offer at including invaluable anaesthesia. veterinary history. horses: for example, next month’s BEVA topics such as On Thursday, the complimentary the comparison of congress arrythmias, murmurs, Perinatology and neonatology happy hour, again providing another equine and human poor performance In the second hall, a full day of opportunity to explore the trade show, metabolic syndromes, and pre-purchase perinatology and neonatology will will run alongside the careers evening the management of twins, exams. After lunch, there cover such topics as dystocia, high-risk – an excellent opportunity for the complications of obesity, and will be sessions on both endocrinology mares and foals, CPR, nutrition and prospective employers and employees ultrasound-guided regional anaesthesia. and neurology. colic in the neonate. The third hall will to mingle. The annual dinner dance on Congress promises to deliver The third hall will house showcase abdominal disease, with Friday evening will feature a live band, excellent presentations on numerous discussions on a range of topical lectures and a workshop in the a DJ and a casino, and will be very aspects of equine medicine and issues, from European legislation to morning, followed by practical core popular. surgery for vets and nurses at every how to avoid being sued. In the skills after lunch, which will also So, whether you are a young level, from the core skills sessions afternoon, there will be an extensive encompass thoracic ultrasound, veterinary nurse, or a senior partner aimed at recent graduates, up to state- management workshop offering ways complications of castration, the rig with years of experience, there will be of-the-art presentations for the to improve the business side of your and angular limb deformities. plenty of fascinating presentations, specialist. Beginning on Thursday 9th practice and maximise revenues. The fourth hall presentations will new things to learn and old friends to September, the dentistry programme The nursing sessions will also be begin with colic surgery, and move on catch up with. will aim to cover a range of topics that offered on the Thursday, and will to the Newshour. After lunch, a team By registering before 6th August, challenge practitioners on a daily basis. cover such topics as ethics, legal issues, of world experts on contagious disease, you will also be eligible for the early As dentistry continues to advance in bereavement management, nutrition, practical epidemiology and biosecurity bird reduction. So book your locum, terms of technical procedures and fluid therapy, colics, ECGs, will facilitate two interactive sessions register for congress and we will see equipment available, so horse owners complementary theraputics and on infectious disease and immunity. you in Birmingham in September! rehabilitation. There will also be a hall presenting n For a full programme and IN BRIEF Clinical research abstracts will be clinical research abstracts. registration details, visit presented in the fifth hall on Thursday There will also be plenty of www.beva.org.uk. 3rd-5th September and Saturday. 25th Annual Scottish Congress (BSAVA Scottish Region) Edinburgh Conference Centre, Plenary lecture VPMA congress expanding in 2011 Friday sees the delivery of the plenary Heriot-Watt University, EH14 4AS NEXT year’s congress of the Veterinary Practice lecture, entitled “Assisted reproduction [www.bsava.com] Management Association (VPMA) will take place in techniques (ART) in the horse – a Kenilworth from 27th to 29th January in a four-star 8th-11th September review from artificial insemination to manor house hotel with 17 acres of grounds. After last BEVA Congress 2010 cloning”, given by the world-renowned year’s congress enjoyed record attendance, this new ICC, Birmingham reproduction specialist from Australia, venue offers the opportunity for even more delegates to [www.beva.org.uk] Dr Angus McKinnon. attend and the VPMA is emphasising that everyone is Hall 1 will showcase a fascinating 23rd-25th September welcome. day of ophthalmology, during which BVA Congress 2010 The association’s president, Rebekka Fiorani both medical and surgical issues will be Marriott Hotel, Glasgow (pictured), says that support from sponsors, including presented. The second hall will run a [www.bva.co.uk] Norbrook (principal sponsor), Nestlé Purina Petcare and Onswitch, is allowing specialist session on the stifle, followed the VPMA to ring the changes, offering a wider choice of topics that appeal by a state-of-the-art session featuring 8th-10th October to those setting up in practice or moving into management for the first time, regenerative therapies, and a lameness BVNA Annual Congress as well as offering state-of-the-art lectures in marketing and motivation. Kettering Conference Centre, session focusing primarily on the “For the first time we are also offering a stream that will focus on personal Kettering, Northants. suspensory ligament. and professional development which will help individuals to leave with some [www.bvna.org.uk] The third hall will offer a full day concrete action plans. This is not just an event for VPMA members; it’s the of equine reproduction presentations, profession’s premier management conference so anyone who feels that they 22nd-23rd October from stallion examination to London Vet Show are a decision maker or aspires to be one, should attend,” says the president. reproductive surgery in mares, and will Olympia Two, London W14 8UX For further information contact Mojo Consultancy include core skills sessions on both [www.londonvetshow.co.uk] ([email protected], telephone 01727 859259). post-breeding and AI management of THE WINNING COMBO

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Three coccidiocides now one origin and the 100mg/ml strength is external parasites. provided in a powder formulation for multi-species suspension licensed for both respiratory disease The product contains 0.5% w/v direct application onto food or to be BAYER Animal Health has replaced its and E. coli mastitis (the latter given by ivermectin and 12.5% w/v closantel dissolved in water and are available in coccidiocides Baycox Bovis, Baycox slow intravenous injection). and is licensed for the treatment of five-day sachets or in 75g tubs for Sheep and Baycox Piglet with a single For pigs the product is licensed for liver fluke (from seven weeks old), a longer term use. multi-species oral suspension called the treatment of the respiratory and wide range of gastrointestinal Baycox 50mgml, licensed for use in alimentary tract diseases of bacterial or roundworms and lungworms and sheep Fluid therapy calculators calves, lambs and piglets. mycoplasmal origin and multi-factorial scab. DECHRA Veterinary Products has diseases such as atrophic rhinitis and For complete control of scab launched free online fluid therapy enzootic pneumonia in animals over infection, a second ivermectin-only calculators to help rapidly calculate the 25kg. injection must be given one week later. fluid requirements of patients. Small animal and equine versions Combined use of pig vaccines Recovery diets from USA are available as online tools or as approved GENITRIX has been appointed as the downloads. BOEHRINGER Ingelheim reports exclusive UK distributor of the Oxbow Results can be printed off and that the EU Commission has approved Professional range of premium added to an animal’s hospitalisation a marketing authorisation variation of recovery diets for herbivores and records. its PCV2 vaccine, Ingelvac CircoFLEX, carnivores. For small animals, there are three allowing the combined use of the pig Developed in the USA, the diets are options: the M1/M2/M3 Plan vaccines Ingelvac CircoFLEX and intended for a wide range of exotic calculates simple multiplications of the Ingelvac MycoFLEX in the European species and are presented in multiple maintenance rate; the Comprehensive Union. pack sizes. Plan calculates fluid required to provide The company is to market this Carnivore Care is a recovery diet for maintenance requirements, correct This, says the firm, brings the vaccine concept under the name carnivores including cats, ferrets, dehydration or replace on-going losses; convenience of prescribing one product FLEXcombo, for protection against raptors and snakes, which are unwilling the Simple Rate Calculator is for to farmers who may need to treat more porcine circovirus disease (PCVD) and or unable to eat their normal diet. It calculating resuscitation fluid rates and than one species, and also simplifies enzootic pneumonia with a single can be self- fed, or fed by syringe or can also be used for large animals. stock control back at the practice. injection instead of up to four tube to cats, ferrets, raptors, and other The Equine Plan calculates fluid The separate products remain injections. carnivorous small mammals and requirements and infusion rates for registered. reptiles, for conditions including both adult horses and foals. Efficacy, application methods and Oromucosal gel for sedation of Larry King, product manager at dosing requirements using Baycox horses Dechra, says: “You simply fill in the 50mg/ml remain unchanged for each JANSSEN Animal Health has launched body weight and animal type, key in a individual species. The price per bottle Domosedan Gel (detomidine7.6 few details and you have an instant but also remains the same. mg/ml), which is described as an easy- very accurate fluid rate calculated for The product is indicated for the to-use oromucosal gel for the reliable you.” prevention and treatment of sedation of horses. coccidiosis, and is applied in a single Product catalogue published oral dose. WOODLEY Equipment Company has published its 2010-11 equipment Fluoroquinolone range launched catalogue. ANIMALCARE has introduced It gives details of the firm’s existing Enrocare solution, a broad-spectrum range of laboratory equipment, fluoroquinolone antimicrobial. diagnostic and critical care products and It is presented in three strengths: a The product is indicated for a number of new products, including: 25mg/ml (2.5%) injection for dogs, cats inducing sedation and analgesia; it is the epoc portable blood gas, electrolyte and exotic animals including reptiles, administered under the horse’s tongue and critical care analyser; the Edge small mammals and avian species; a for rapid absorbtion. malnutrition, severe weight loss, hand-held lactate analyser for measuring 50mg/ml (5%) injection for use in It can, says the firm, replace appetite stimulation, gastroenteritis, pre- lactate concentration in blood; the g- cattle, pigs, dogs and cats; and physical restraint and improve safety and post-surgical care and as a Pet veterinary glucose monitor; the 100mg/ml (10%) injection for cattle during non-invasive treatments, medication carrier. MS4s vet haematology analyser which and pigs. diagnostics and transport and the gel is Critical Care is a recovery diet for can give a three-part differential blood The range has been launched with ideal for horses that are nervous or herbivores, including rabbits, guinea cell count within 50 seconds or a three offers: “buy one get one free on needle-shy and when owners need more pigs, hamsters, tortoises and other complete five-part differential blood the 50 and 100mg/ml” and a “buy two control during clipping, shoeing, dental herbivorous mammals and reptiles. It cell count within 85 seconds; and get one free offer” on the 25mg/ml treatments and boxing. can be self-fed or fed by syringe and is HemoCue Hb 201+ and HemoCue pack size; the offers last until the end of for use in cases including WBC point-of-care testing. September. Combined injection for sheep gastrointestinal stasis, severe weight For a copy of the catalogue e-mail Enrocare is described as ready to NORBROOK Laboratories Ltd has loss, dental disease/post extraction, for [email protected] or call use and easy to inject with excellent introduced Closamectin Injection for gastric hair balls and pre- and post- 01204 669033 (option 1); or see the tissue penetration. Sheep, the first injection for fluke, surgery website www.woodleyequipment.com. For dogs and cats, a single daily worm and scab control in Europe. Critical Care Fine Grind is a n The company will be exhibiting its dose is needed. Licensed in recovery food which is said to be products at the BSAVA Scottish In cattle, the the UK, Ireland particularly suitable in cases where tube region and BEVA congresses next 50mg/ml and other feeding is required. It can be used to month and the Vets Now congress in presentation, European feed herbivorous mammals and reptiles November. given by the countries, it is unwilling or unable to eat due to illness, subcutaneous said to provide surgery or poor nutritional status. Reduced withdrawal time route, is licensed effective • Genitrix has reformulated and ELANCO reports that a reduced meat for respiratory treatment for repackaged its Lacto B range of broad- withdrawal time of 63 days (down from disease of adult and late spectrum probiotic supplements for the 70 days) has been approved by the bacterial or immature fluke, maintenance of normal digestive VMD for Dectomax (doramectin) mycoplasmal worms and function in pets. The products are injection in sheep. 14 UNION VETERINARY PRACTICE AUGUST 2010 Making information accessible THE appearance of Vets4BVU at don’t work for bad employers.” In focused on the goodies to grab or the BSAVA congress in April was a other words, let such employers carry lotteries to try the luck on, seeking out landmark achievement for the on with employees taking turns to the right audience is a challenging task. campaign to establish a new work for them! But Vets4BVU representatives organisation, the proposed British It is important to mention that a managed to exchange a word or two Veterinary Union, with the number of supporters of the with and hand out a leaflet to over a exclusive objective of looking after campaign managed to visit the stand. thousand passers-by – some vets, the welfare of veterinary Some quietly whispered a “well done” many nurses and many more student professionals, while others had many nurses. individually and positive thoughts to It appeared that in spite of collectively. share. The partners or extensive debate in the veterinary press The BVU stand at the BSAVA One of the most practice principals over the past two years, there is not a congress in April. important objectives amongst them had great deal of awareness about the for Vets4BVU to particularly interesting subject of the proposed British of discussion on subjects of mutual appear at this national remarks to make. Veterinary Union – a striking finding interest and the possibility of event was to make One partner said but not totally unexpected. registering with Vets4BVU. itself available to face that over the past year Obviously, a significant proportion It is quite possible that some up to any questions or so she had received of the vets and nurses don’t feel members of the profession may not from all members of letters from BVA and tempted to read the letters or personally feel the need for a new the profession. Dr SHAMS MIR SPVS like never politically-orientated topics in veterinary organisation but good professionalism Surprisingly, not so provides an update before, appearing to periodicals. Quite likely for the reason demands that all members care about many of those critical on progress towards have for the first time that such letters and articles generally each other. of the campaign establishing a union ever started to address do not deal with their concerns. grabbed the the real issues! She In view of the above, the Feeling pain opportunity to make thought that the Vets4BVU steering group decided that If we claim to be members of the their point heard. Only a handful of proposed union was already having an there was an urgent need to collate as same profession, how can it be these colleagues did rise to the impact by keeping employment issues much information as possible acceptable for anyone not to feel the occasion, often expressing a degree of on the agenda. published in veterinary periodicals pain of those who make the statistics anger. In an atmosphere where a about the subject of the proposed of the unparalleled levels of stress, One common antidote offered by significant number of visitors, rushing union for easy access to all members anxiety, mental health problems and many of them against the problems through the aisles to grab a lunch bag, of the profession. Subsequently, a lot suicides in our profession? faced by vets and nurses was: “Just ice cream or coffee, appear more of work has gone into making this If a finger hurts, how can the rest information available. of the body not feel the pain? Therefore, it is high time that all Significant collection members of the profession, regardless A significant collection of relevant of their rank or position in the letters, articles and reports covering profession, join hands to create a both sides of the argument are now complementary futuristic organisation easily accessible on the Vets4BVU which will take up the exclusive website – www.vets4bvu.org responsibility of looking after us and This is a developing website run our coming generations’ welfare as and funded exclusively by ordinary veterinary professionals. vets and nurses with the welfare of To learn more about the vets and nurses at the heart of its Vets4BVU campaign or to join in, agenda and completely independent of please visit www.vets4bvu.org. any commercial objectives and influences. Shams Mir, BVSc&AH, MVSc, The website is designed not only to DrMedVet, MRCVS, can be contacted at [email protected] or serve as a source of information for [email protected]. everybody but also offers the facility

BSAVA appoints academic director DR Frances Barr has been appointed academic director of the BSAVA, with the task of launching the new BSAVA postgraduate qualification in association with the Open University in 2012. Dr Barr, a former president of the association and currently on the staff at the Bristol veterinary school, will start work in November to launch the new qualification, which is aimed primarily at general practitioners. Purchase takes surgery total to 80 MEDIVET Veterinary Partnership has bought the two-branch practice in Bedfordshire – Ridgeway Veterinary Centre, Flitwick, and Kempston Veterinary Clinic, Bedford – belonging to John Wakely. The current practice vets, John Wakely and Leo Weindrich, as well as all the nursing and reception staff, will remain at the practices. The acquisition brings the number of practices Medivet owns in Bedfordshire to four, the others situated in Biggleswade and Sandy, and brings the total number of surgeries in the Medivet group to 80. AUGUST 2010 VETERINARY PRACTICE BVA 15 The post-Panorama veterinary profession BY the time you read this article the practice. We are dealing with people at their general everyday practice to build up You can find links to these resources on Panorama programme on vets that extreme times of stress and emotional client confidence and trust (and I’m our dedicated Panorama webpage, we’ve all been waiting for since last upset; when their much-loved animals are willing to wager that’s the majority of www.bva.co.uk/panorama (see activity autumn will have been and, hopefully, sick. If you’re lucky you will have only vets) will now be able to cash in that and advice). They range from advice on gone. experienced a handful of distressed or investment. For vets just starting out and handling media enquiries to guidance on Although we’ve heard rumours about angry clients, but most vets in practice for vets dealing with new clients, this whistle-blowing, and from assistance on the content of the will have had their fair could be more difficult. achieving PSS accreditation to a whole programme, and there share – whether In anticipation of increased client range of employment resources has been much justified or not. And concerns and questions, the BVA media (including contracts of employment, speculation on the each of you will have team has e-mailed all members with some development reviews, working time various veterinary dealt with those clients advice ahead of the broadcast. We would regulations and much more). forums, at the time of in the best possible way. be very interested to hear from members Also this month we’re re-launching writing the programme The difference here about their post-Panorama experiences VETS.TV, which features a short film in has not been seen by is that an investigative with clients and I would encourage you to which BVA president-elect Harvey Locke anyone except the BBC programme that claims get in touch with us via the BVA’s online answers questions on Panorama so that we and a number of TV to unveil specific discussion forum or direct to BVA HQ. can reach as many people as possible with critics. Professor BILL REILLY examples of bad our key messages. The weekend president of the BVA, practice can easily slip A positive opportunity However you and your practice are papers trailed it as looks ahead... into widespread (and The BVA has been working with the affected by the programme, remember “worrying viewing” often unfair) general- BSAVA and SPVS over the last few that you can access advice on legal and involving “questionable isations. And herein lies months to make sure we turn this employment issues from the BVA’s legal practices”, “exorbitant bills” and “poorly my greatest fear for the fallout from the potentially damaging incident into a advice line and on personal and treated animals”. Without knowing the programme. positive opportunity to get the message emotional issues from the Vet Helpline – detail it is difficult to examine how valid The BVA is well aware of the out to the public that vets work extremely both excellent and highly-regarded these claims are, but it’s important to significant concerns amongst members hard and provide an excellent service and services. remember that the BBC wants people to that we will all be “tarred with the same good value for money. And I’ll leave you with these statistics watch the programme and so a certain brush”. I fear this is a legitimate concern I hope individual practices will also from a recent Petplan survey of 8,500 amount of hyperbole will have found its as the media increasingly follows the seize this opportunity within their local customers: 98% said that they trust their way into the press announcement. tabloid formula of scaring viewers and communities. vet’s advice and 98% believe their vet We can never condone bad practice, readers, just as we have seen recently with We’ve also spent some time collating provides them with the right level of but we should also remember that the Daily Mail stories aimed at pet owners. various member resources so that you service and treatment. We must be doing complaints are sadly part of running a Those vets who have made it part of have as much help on hand as possible. something right.

Now reliable sedation exists as oromucosal gel

• Replace physical restraint by oromucosal sedation • Improved safety during treatments • Effectively absorbed oromucosal gel

Domosedan Gel® is an oromucosal gel for horses containing 7.6 mg/ml detomidine hydrochloride (active substance). Legal category: UK POM-V ROI VPO Domosedan Gel® is developed and manufactured by Orion Corporation Finland and distributed by Janssen Animal Health, a division of Janssen-Cilag Ltd, under licence from Orion Corporation. For more information please contact Janssen Animal Health, 50-100 Holmers Farm Way, High Wycombe, Bucks HP12 4EG, UK. Tel: +44 (0)1494 567555 Fax: +44 (0)1494 567556 Email: [email protected] www.janssenanimalhealth.com Use medicines responsibly www.noah.co.uk/responsible Allermyl Epi-Soothe ● Signiﬁ cant soothing properties1 ● The most widely-used shampoo of the Virbac range3 ● Inhibits microbial colonisation2 – glycotechnologya ● Colloidal oatmeal soothes, moisturises and protects ● Antioxidant, maintains barrier function itchy skin – Vitamin E/linoleic acid ● Chitosan – hydrates and protects the skin ● Antibacterial – Piroctone olamine ● Cationic Spherulites®b ensure longer duration of action

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For more information about our dermatology products ask your Virbac Territory Manager about booking a training session for your practice. Virbac Animal Health Tel 01359 243243 Email [email protected] 1. Loflath and others. Veterinary Dermatology 2007; 18: 427-31 2. McEwan and others. Veterinary Dermatology 2006; 17:358 and 2007; 18:187 3. Virbac internal sales data AUGUST 2010 VETERINARY PRACTICE RCVS 17 Tackling the challenges of climate change and over-population THROUGH their powers of lateral humans as just another animal – rather those that have never used this form of thinking, veterinary surgeons can than the only animal which is contraception. So it was unfortunate play a vital role in identifying understood by human medical that there is a popular misconception solutions to the pressing problems researchers. that this technology is a danger to resulting from uncontrolled human “We can run rings around medics women’s health. population growth, according to because they can’t think laterally. Only Seen from a veterinarian’s viewpoint, Professor Roger Short. we can see the animal in man.” it also seems astonishing that the pill is Professor Short is one of the few The biological success of humans usually taken in such a way as to veterinary surgeons to have been elected has meant that we have now entered a maintain the woman’s menstrual cycle. Professor Roger Short speaking on as a fellow of the Royal new geological age, If similar drugs were to be used in a Royal College Day; below: RCVS Society of London, in dubbed the veterinary patient they would be councillor Dr Barry Johnson holds up recognition of his Anthropocene era by administered continuously throughout one of the shirts the professor distinguished the Nobel Prize- the normal cycle. handed out. contributions to winning Dutch In developing countries with limited research on the science atmospheric scientist food supplies, this would save women of human and animal reports on the Paul Crutzen, Professor from the considerable energy losses reproduction. remarkable lecture Short explained. associated with losing up to 100ml Giving a public given on Royal College This is the era during each menstrual cycle, he noted. lecture on Royal Day last month by when the lives of all But there would also be major College Day last month Professor Roger Short living things are shaped health benefits for women in more on “the way ahead for by human activities and developed economies. Continuous the veterinary profession began with the Dawn of suppression of the oestrus cycle will in a warming world”, he said vets have the Industrial Revolution around 1800. save those using oral contraceptive pills unique skills which will be invaluable At that stage the global population was from the hazards of nulliparity, he when dealing with the twin challenges about 1 billion, it is now estimated at 6.8 pointed out. It would eliminate the of over-population and climate change. billion and is projected to rise above 9 effects of natural hormones on breast, A 1954 graduate of the Bristol billion by the year 2050. uterine and ovarian tissue which make veterinary school, Prof. Short worked at Finding ways to feed that many those women who never undergo the University of Cambridge and mouths will require revolutionary pregnancy more vulnerable to founded the MRC Reproductive changes in all aspects of food developing cancers involving those Biology Unit in Edinburgh before production. Sadly, there is unlikely to be organs. moving to Monash University in room in this New World for traditional Professor Short went on to query tyranny of their unwanted fertility.” Melbourne, Australia in 1982. farming methods or the large animal whether the Vatican’s opposition to all He concluded that among the He explained that his career was veterinarians who currently attend to the forms of contraception could be tasks that members of his profession shaped by three people: his mother who global livestock industry. overturned by promoting the pill as a should take on is in lobbying for the advised him to apply to become a means of preventing cancers in nuns, a contraceptive pill to be taken off veterinary student; his first employer in ‘All flesh is grass’ group with exceptionally high incidence prescription and be made available at practice who pointed out his failings as Although the concept stated in the Old of those conditions, rather than as a cost price in pharmacies throughout a small animal surgeon; and the Testament Book of Isaiah that “all flesh contraceptive option. the world. conservationist Peter Scott, who told is grass” remains as true today as it was Promoting wider use of the He recognised that such a move him in the 1960s that all efforts to nearly 3,000 years ago, feeding grass to contraceptive pill is also likely to have would be strongly opposed for very preserve the natural world will be ruminants is a hopelessly inefficient a direct effect on that other threat to different reasons by religious leaders, doomed unless human population means of generating protein for human human existence – global warming, he the medical profession and the drug growth can be curbed. nutrition. said. It has been calculated that every manufacturers. But he hoped the A veterinary training gives a research Instead it is likely that within 50 £4 spent on increasing the availability views of the veterinary profession scientist tremendous advantages in the years most human food will be derived of contraception will save a tonne in would have an influence. search for effective and practical from synthetic materials produced by carbon dioxide emissions. The same “Up vets and at ’em – we need methods for controlling human fertility bacterial fermentation of plant-based results would require £15 to be spent your lateral thinking to save the as it encourages a scientist to think of cellulose in the laboratory, he said. on expanding wind power production, world!” Pessimists may claim that the £31 on solar energy challenges facing humanity today and and £58 of hybrid into the immediate future will be vehicle technology. insoluble but the solution is, in fact, Prof. Short noted remarkably simple, he suggested. that the production “We must give the women of the costs of world the powers to control their own manufacturing the fertility. This year is the 50th anniversary pill were about two of the introduction of the oral US cents for a contraceptive pill. This technology has month’s supply. “So already made a massive contribution to the cheapest method John Nicoll (left), who graduated preventing unwanted births but it could we have got for from the RVC in 1948, catches up do so much more,” he continued. preventing global with one of his former students, Large scale epidemiological surveys warming will also The new president of the RCVS, Peter Jinman, ﬂanked Prof. Roger Short, who qualiﬁed have shown that women who have used radically improve the by Professor Sandy Trees (left), senior vice-president, from Bristol in 1954. Prof. Short the contraceptive pill are less likely to health of women and Dr Jerry Davies, junior vice-president, after the celebrated his 80th birthday at the die from a range of conditions such as and help them College AGM on 2nd July. Mr Jinman and Dr Davies were end of July. cancer and ischaemic heart disease than escape from the at the RVC together in the early 1970s. Metacam contains meloxicam. Prescription only medicine. Further information available from Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 8YS, UK. abcd Tel: +44 (0)1344 746959. Email: [email protected]. Date of preparation: Jun 2010. AHD 6349. Use Medicines Responsibly (www.noah.co.uk/responsible) www.metacam.co.uk 20 FELINE VETERINARY PRACTICE AUGUST 2010

dependent pathway in cats with experimentally induced asthma. Cases from around the world The Veterinary Journal 184 (1): 111-114. Evaluation of a continuous preventing the condition with a low feline samples was poor at 11% and glucose monitoring system for magnesium diet which will maintain a 25%, respectively. So caution should Surgical removal of a nasal diabetic cats urine pH between 6 and 6.3. The be used in interpreting a positive vascular hamartoma in a cat Simona Moretti and others, condition is likely to recur but optimal result using these methods to detect Brenton Chambers and others, University of Zurich management will reduce the frequency albuminuria. University of Melbourne Repeated sampling to generate blood of such problems. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Hamartomas are benign growths glucose curves is useful in monitoring Compendium: Continuing Education for Association 236 (8): 874-879. consisting of a disorganised mass of diabetes in cats. Blood is usually taken Veterinarians 31 (12): 542-552. normal tissue elements found in that at one or two hour intervals but Nodular granulomatous fungal particular anatomical region. The significant events may occur between Addressing the problem of skin diseases in cats authors describe an unusual case in samples. There is also the possibility difficult-to-control diabetes in Richard Miller, IDEXX which a nasal mass caused facial that handling may cause stress-induced cats Laboratories, Wetherby deformity, sneezing and intermittent hyperglycaemia. Audrey Cook, Texas A&M Nodular granulomatous fungal skin epistaxis in a three-year-old neutered The authors investigate a novel real- University disease is a well-recognised condition in female cat. Computed tomography time continuous glucose monitoring Diabetes mellitus is a common cats which occurs sporadically in revealed a mass in the right-hand nasal system which does not require the endocrinopathy in feline practice and Europe and North America, where cavity which was removed through a animal to be fitted with a fixed monitor. can be a difficult condition for the most published reports have originated. ventral surgical approach, combined It was tested in diabetic and healthy cats clinician to control. The complex The author investigates the clinical with temporary ipsilateral, common and the results compared with those pathophysio-logy of the disease, the features of 77 feline cases in the UK. carotid artery occlusion. Surgery was from a reference glucose meter. cat’s tendency to show stress-related Of these, 64 cats were found to have successful and the recovery uneventful. Although some readings showed hyperglycaemia and the small size of hyalohymphomycosis identified as Australian Veterinary Journal 88 (3): 107- substantial deviation from the reference feline patients (which can make insulin being caused by Alternaria species, 111. values, the device yielded reproducible dosing more difficult than in other mostly affecting the nostrils, bridge of and accurate results in cats with species) are all contributory factors to the nose, ears and face. Five cases were Cardiac arrest secondary to hyperglycaemia and euglycaemia. It was these problems. The author reviews the characterised as phaeohymphomycosis accidental iatrogenic venous air slightly less accurate at low blood reasons for poor diabetic regulation and and eight as dermatophytic embolism in a cat glucose levels but overall, the results outlines a logical approach to the pseudomycetoma. Nicole Pacifico and others, Red suggest that this system is suitable for treatment of diabetes in difficult feline Veterinary Dermatology 21 (2): 130-135. Bank Veterinary Hospital, Tinton real-time glucose measurements under patients. Falls, New Jersey clinical conditions. Veterinary Medicine 105 (3): 106-114. Clinical findings in cases of Venous air embolism has rarely been Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine 24 spontaneous reported in the veterinary literature and (1): 120-126. Anaemia in cats with haemoperitoneum in cats such cases invariably appear to have haemotropic mycoplasma William Culp and others, been fatal. The authors report the Comparison of buprenorphine infections University of Pennsylvania successful recovery of a cat following and butorphanol for post- Belle Marie Nibblett and others, Spontaneous haemoperitoneum is a an iatrogenic incident causing cardiac operative analgesia in cats University of Saskatchewan rare life-threatening condition which arrest in a three-year-old neutered Polly Taylor and others, Taylor Haemitropic mycoplasmas are Gram- has received minimal attention in the female cat. The cat was being treated Monroe, Little Downham, negative parasites that may induce veterinary literature. The authors for intestinal lymphosarcoma and was Cambridgeshire haemolytic anaemia in infected hosts. review the aetiology, clinical and being given chemotherapy when it was Cats still tend to receive less treatment The authors summarise the findings in laboratory findings, and outcome in discovered that the drip line had not for post-operative pain than dogs, even 23 cases of mycoplasmal disease among 65 cases seen at seven referral clinics. been primed with fluid. when undergoing similar procedures. 170 anaemic cats presenting to a Thirty patients had abdominal Cardiopulmonary resuscitation was The authors investigated the university clinic over a 10-year period. neoplasia and 35 had non-neoplastic provided and spontaneous circulation effectiveness of two opioid analgesics The frequency of disease among non conditions. Haemangiosarcoma was was restored. in a multi-centre clinical trial involving purebred cats was higher than in those the most commonly diagnosed lesion Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical 153 feline surgery cases. Based on a with other forms of anaemia. The one- with the spleen as the most common Care 20 (2): 264-267. four-point pain scale, 83% of cats given year survival of haemotropic location. Only eight cats survived to 10-20ug/kg dose of buprenorphine had mycoplasma cases was 65%. Those be discharged from hospital and so Choice of anticonvulsant drugs the lowest pain score 24 hours after with a positive retroviral status, the prognosis appears to be very for treating seizures in cats and surgery, compared with 63% of those concurrent illness or a lack of erythroid poor. dogs given 0.4mg/kg butorphanol. So regeneration were more likely to die. Journal of the American Veterinary Elissa Kluger and others, buprenorphine provided better and Canadian Veterinary Journal 50 (11): Medical Association 236 (9): 978-982. University of Sydney longer lasting post-operative analgesia 1,181-1,185. Idiopathic epilepsy is one of the than butorphanol. Prophylactic effects of omega-3 commonest neurological conditions in Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery 12 Comparison of methods for polyunsaturated fatty acids and small animals and the lack of a clearly- (4): 247-255. detecting albumin in urine luteolin in asthma defined aetiology can make samples Jerome Leemans and others, management problematic. The authors Prevention and treatment of Shane Lyon and others, Kansas University of Liege investigate the treatment preferences feline struvite urolithiasis State University Increased dietary consumption of of Australian clinicians in dealing with Douglas Palma and others, Animal Persistent proteinuria is an indicator omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids has seizures in cats and dogs. Medical Center, New York of chronic kidney disease and there is been shown to have therapeutic value Phenobarbitone was the most widely Feline urolithiasis is the cause of about an association between high protein in both acute and chronic inflammatory used anticonvulsant drug for managing 15% of cases of non-obstructive lower levels and disease progression. The conditions. The authors assess the chronic seizures in both species with urinary tract infection in cats and in authors compare the results of urine effects of omega-3 PFAs given with the 82% of respondents using it in about 50% of these cases the uroliths dipstick, sulphosalicylic acid, urine antioxidant luteolin on the airways of combination with potassium bromide. are composed of struvite. The authors protein to creatinine ratio and cats sensitised to Ascaris suum antigens. Nearly all respondents said they were review current understanding of the species-specific ELISA methods in Their results suggest that omega-3 PFA comfortable in managing seizures in pathophysiology of a condition which 347 feline and 599 canine urine and luteolin supplementation may have dogs but only 63% in cats. has a different aetiology in cats than samples. The specificity of the some beneficial effects on airway Australian Veterinary Journal 87 (11): dogs. They outline strategies for dipstick and SSA methods with the responsiveness through a lipoxin A4- 445-449. Noticed the difference?

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Choosing a vaccine protocol Decision-making in feline vaccination It is becoming ever more critical to develop a vaccine protocol that can be DILEMMAS over feline vaccination up from a virulent challenge model. success story, with some countries rarely justified and substantiated but is that as continue to pose challenges for the “I would tend to take a view that reporting the disease since vaccination easy as it sounds? profession. Failing to act to embrace cats which have shown an amnaestic was widely adopted and seven years and Mark Riggs of Merial believes not: extended duration of immunity response in such studies have benefited beyond duration of immunity reported “I think many cat-owners would be protocols sets the foundation for from boosting by having their immunity in challenge and serology studies1,3. surprised to learn that it is not accusations of profiting from levels topped up. For both cats and The disease can, however, still veterinary science alone that drives the vaccines at the potential expense of dogs, the data from serological studies present a problem in the UK, protocol decision. Vets are between a patients. have not changed in the last 20 years; particularly in rescue shelters and the rock and a hard place. Yet clinicians are also bound by the however, the fashionable interpretation Feline Advisory Bureau recommends “What does the VMD mean when it information provided in vaccine for the data has changed away from that all cats receive vaccination and comes to risk/benefit analysis? Where datasheets and deviation constitutes vaccination. regular boosters, including indoor cats6. does the buck stop if guidelines are “off-label” use, with all “For calicivirus, used as surely they were intended – for the legal problems that interpretation is further Vaccine reactions guidance, not as mandates? I find that involves. complicated in that Sarcomas are obviously the big concern when vets call us to discuss what our neutralisation tests in terms of adverse effects. Some large SPCs have to say with regard to a Guidelines document immunity to studies have suggested that the specific case, the outcome is usually that A number of the strain of virus used incidence of vaccine associated good veterinary science and, dare I say guidelines have been in the test, not all sarcomas is around 0.2-1/10,000 it, common sense, prevails.” produced by the caliciviruses. Therefore vaccinations.3 As well as an apparent According to the latest Fort Dodge WSAVA and The a cat with a high titre association with FeLV and rabies report, “Clients taking up vaccination American Association to a particular vaccines, other vaccine components may and other preventive health products of Feline Practitioners calicivirus, whether by be involved. and services will tend to remain with the (AAFP).1,2 Although SUSAN McKAY vaccination or natural Professor Michael Day’s study practice and contribute more to the there are recommen- reviews the current infection, is not compared adjuvanted vaccines with practice’s finances and growth.”10 dations that are ideas and trends in necessarily immune to non-adjuvanted vaccines and found Vaccination is no longer the quick common to both feline vaccination all calicivirus.” greater tissue reaction when adjuvanted “catch-up” appointment it has been in organisations, there is protocols This is all highly vaccines were used, as well as the past. If our clients with vaccinated not agreement on basic relevant. Feline accumulation of residual adjuvant in pets start to feel disenfranchised or protocols around core calicivirus poses marcophages two months after short-changed, their departure could be feline vaccines – with the AAFP problems as there are multiple strains vaccination.7 catastrophic. recommending a six week start followed and prevalence of infection remains Although no neoplastic or pre- Taking the time to make the by repeat doses every 3-4 weeks to 16 high, despite vaccination. In 2008, neoplastic changes were detected, necessary explanations to support a weeks; while WSAVA recommends an researchers identified that antisera raised Professor Day observed, “If tissue vaccine protocol recommendation may 8-9 week start, a second dose after 3-4 against newer strains of calicivirus inflammation can act as a potential play havoc with time management but it weeks and a final dose at 16 weeks or neutralised a greater proportion of field trigger for neoplastic transformation of may well underpin the future success of over. isolates.4 It’s also been suggested that mesenchymal tissue, then this effect may the practice. Of course, the pressure to follow vaccine-induced immune pressure may have relevance to the risk of different published guidelines is difficult to resist, drive antigenic shift of FCV.5 vaccines inducing sarcoma.” 1. WSAVA Guidelines for the vaccination of yet the profession is still bound by There are reports of virulent Professor David Argyle reported at Dogs and Cats: www.wsava.org/PDF/Misc/ vaccine SPCs (the summary of product systemic disease in Europe and North the WSAVA congress in 2008 that some VGG_09_2007.pdf. characteristics) unless they use products America caused by highly virulent rabies and FeLV vaccines will produce 2. AAFP 2006 Feline Vaccine Advisory off-label with all the provisos that strains of FCV and although some post-vaccination lumps in 100% of cats Panel Report: entails. vaccine protection has been vaccinated.8 Most of these resolve over www.catvets.com/professionals/guidelines/p It is also difficult to explain to demonstrated experimentally, this does 2-3 months, in contrast to vaccine ublications/?Id=176. owners when their individual cat falls not hold up under field conditions.1 associated sarcomas which usually do 3. Gruffydd Jones, T. As quoted at 34th victim to disease because immunity Immunity to Feline Herpesvirus not occur until three months after WSAVA Congress 2009, Brazil: Review of declined during an extended duration of (FHV) may last longer than a year but vaccination. Vaccination Protocols for Cats. immunity protocol, that their pet is one several US studies have shown that 30% Others report sarcoma development 4. Addie, D., Poulet, H. et al (2008) Ability of of the “unlucky” animals that deviated of vaccinated cats have undetectable within 3-12 months post vaccination, antibodies to two new caliciviral vaccine from the norm. titre.3 Professor Tim Gruffydd-Jones, but it can be delayed up to three years.9 strains to neutralise feline calicivirus isolates speaking at the 2009 WSAVA congress, The recommendation is usually that from the UK. Veterinary Record 163: 355-357. Protection and immunity recognised that experimental studies post-vaccination lumps should be 5. Poulet, H. et al (2008) Efficacy of a The protection offered by some feline “provide compelling evidence that removed if still present at three months bivalent inactivated non-adjuvanted feline vaccines is less clear cut than with immunity lasts at least three years and or if they grow beyond 2cm before calicivirus vaccine: Relation between in vitro canine vaccines. Some researchers probably considerably longer in the three months. There are anecdotal cross-neutralisation and heteralogous believe that any discernible titre majority of cats”. But he also reports of post-vaccination lumps being protection in vivo. Vaccine indicates protection and some cats with recommended that FHV vaccination removed much earlier than this in doi:10.1016/j.vaccine.2008.04.082. undetectable titres have shown a should be given annually to provide practice, probably prompted by fear 6. FAB Information Sheet: serological response, termed an minimum levels of protection and over the aggressive nature of the www.fabcats.org/owners/feline_enteritis/inf amnaestic response, in the face of include cats that respond less effectively. tumours when they do occur. o.html. challenge.3 This is in contrast to some of the At a more basic level, it is worth 7. Day, M. J. et al (2007) A kinetic study of Paul Burr of BioBest Laboratories published guidelines. keeping in mind that live modified histopathological changes in the subcutis of says: “The interpretation of data is less The WSAVA guidelines also point vaccines retain pathogenic potential. cats injected with non-adjuvanted and straightforward as the somewhat sketchy out that FHV vaccine cannot protect Accidental aerosolisation of vaccine or adjuvanted multi-component vaccines. data for what a protective titre is in dogs against infection by virulent virus which ingestion of vaccine deposited on skin Vaccine doi:10.1016/j.vaccine.2007.02.049. is virtually non-existent for cats. Some can become latent and then reactivate at can result in disease.1 The classic 8. Argyle, D. 33rd WSAVA Congress 2008, recent papers have taken a view that any times of stress, leading to clinical signs scenario is a litter of squirming kittens Decision making in feline cancer patients. amnaestic response documents and active virus shedding.1 brought in by a breeder in a single 9. Maudlin, D. WSAVA Congress 2001, protective levels of immunity but they Feline Infectious Enteritis basket, so it is worth taking extra care in Vaccine-associated sarcomas in the cat. have presented no evidence to back this (panleucopaenia) has been largely a these types of situations. 10. Fort Dodge Q4 2009 Report. Target urinary tract infections.

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IRIS Classification Scheme (www.IRIS-Kidney.com)Ensuring adequate water is available and encouraging water Feline chronic IRIS CLASSIFICATION STAGE CREATININEconsumption, VALUE e.g. provision of Stage I <140running µmol/l water, flavouring of water Stage II 140-250may µmol/l be beneficial. Some owners may kidney disease: an Stage III 250-440be ableµmol/l to administer fluids by Stage IV >440 µmol/l subcutaneous injection. A giving set, BLOOD PRESSURE RISKneedle OF TARGET and fluid END bag mayORGAN be used or an update on diagnosis in-dwelling subcutaneous catheter DAMAGE <150 mmHg Minimal(www.arnolds.co.uk/endosofsubcutane 150-159 mmHg Mildouscatheterset.asp). and treatment 160-179 mmHg ModerateNo more than 50ml should be Diagnosis will lead to catabolism of muscle >180 mmHg Highinjected at one site. Saline or An estimated 15% of cats over 15 tissues which will worsen azotaemia, Hartmann’s can be used. Saline can be CLASSIFICATION OF URINE PROTEIN:CRETAININE RATIO years old may be affected by chronic therefore if caloric intake cannot be acidifying, and potassium PROTEINURIA kidney disease (CKD), but CKD can met with a renal diet, it is better to Non proteinuric (NP) <0.2supplementation may be required also affect young cats as a result of allow the cat to eat what it wants! Borderline proteinuric (BP) 0.2-0.4(although this can make it sting). congenital or hereditary disease or The control of phosphate is Proetinuric (P) >0.4 Hartmann’s contains calcium and toxin exposure. important due to its contribution to Diagnosis is based on history, on-going renal damage and the afferent arteriole induced by physical examination findings, development of secondary renal amlodipine may result in transmission urinalysis and demonstration of hyperparathyroidism. Phosphate of the high systemic blood pressure to azotaemia (+/- hyperphosphataemia). restriction should be initiated in cats the glomerulus and exacerbation of Concurrent problems such as with IRIS stage II renal disease, even if renal damage. hypertension, proteinuria, the phosphate level is within reference Urinary tract infections should be hypokalaemia, urinary range. Different treated with appropriate antibiotics tract infections, and target levels have following culture. The dose or anaemia may be NICKI REED been proposed frequency of dosing should be identified with more presents an update based on reduced with some antibiotics (e.g. extensive investigations. on this multifactorial classification (see penicillins and cephalosporins) if the The diagnosis of disease Table below). patient is azotaemic, and reno-toxic chronic kidney disease Initially, drugs such as aminoglycosides should requires the identification • This paper was introduction of a be avoided. The author - and friend of azotaemia, with dilute presented at the Northern phosphate- Potassium supplementation (citrate urine on two occasions at Vet Show in Leeds in May restricted diet or gluconate) should be provided for therefore there is a slight risk of least two weeks apart. should be used, cats that are identified to be calcium deposition at the site of with phosphate hypokalaemic. Calcitriol injection. Treatment levels checked four supplementation may theoretically Cats may develop a uraemic crisis, Use of a renal diet is advocated from weeks after starting the diet. If the reduce renal secondary with a sudden worsening of IRIS stage II onwards. Introducing a phosphate levels are still too high, then hyperparathyroidism. azotaemia. This is particularly renal diet sooner rather than later may a phosphate binder should be The anaemia associated with CKD common if they become dehydrated, be easier, as the appetite is usually introduced and again phosphate levels is considered multifactorial in origin: e.g. if they stop eating and/or maintained in the early stages of CKD. reassessed after four weeks. n Decreased erythropoietin drinking or develop vomiting and/or Tips to facilitate transition include: Phosphate binders primarily act production by the failing kidneys. diarrhoea. In addition to iv fluid n feeding of the renal diet alongside within the GI tract to reduce n Increased blood loss from GI therapy, use of antiiemetics may the normal diet for 1-2 weeks, allowing absorption of phosphate. Options bleeding (uraemic gastritis). contribute to restoration of appetite. a gradual transition; available include aluminium salts, n Decreased life expectancy of Metoclopramide is more efficient n warming of the food to enhance calcium salts, sevelamer hydrochloride circulating red blood cells. given as a constant rate infusion olfactory stimulation; and lanthanum carbonate. n Suppression of the bone marrow by (1mg/kg/24 hours), but its n flavouring the food with a flavour Proteinuria may be reduced by the uraemic toxins such as PTH. metabolism may be reduced in enhancer such as tuna water; use of an ACE inhibitor, which n Decreased precursor availability (e.g. patients with renal disease. n positive reinforcement, e.g stroking reduces glomerular hypertension, iron, protein) from anorexia. Uraemic gastritis can contribute the cat whilst eating or hand feeding. reduces aldosterone and angiotensin II Due to problems associated with to nausea and vomiting. H2 blockers Renal diets should not be offered and may increase appetite and feeling management of anaemia, treatment and sucralphate can be used to whilst the patient is hospitalised due to of well-being. However, azotaemia should only be carried out when the reduce this, and consideration may be the negative association between the may increase as a result of reduction in patient becomes symptomatic from the given to appetite stimulants such as diet and the hospital. GFR.Treatment of systemic anaemia. Options for treatment cyproheptadine or mirtazepine. Remember: inadequate nutrition hypertension is primarily with the include erythropoietin (Eprex), calcium channel blocker amlodipine darbopoeitin (Aranesp) or blood Prognosis Nicki Reed, BVM&S, CertVR, DSAM besylate, which provides a greater transfusion. Both erythropoietin and Feline CKD is a multifactorial (Feline), DECVIM-CA, MRCVS, reduction in systemic blood pressure darbopoietin may require iron disease, and patients may be European Veterinary Specialist in (of the order of 40-50mmHg) than supplementation to be given to enable presented at different stages, which in Internal Medicine, qualiﬁed from ACE inhibitors. red blood cell generation. Both may turn can affect prognosis. Cats may Edinburgh in 1988 and worked in If an inadequate reduction in also carry the risk of inducing live with stable disease for a number general, mixed practice before returning to the university in 1999. systemic blood pressure is achieved, hypertension. of years, then decompensate Initially she ran the general practice then an ACE inhibitor should be Dehydration may hasten suddenly. but subsequently took up the post of introduced, or else the dilation of the progression of underlying renal Accurate evaluation of all aspects FAB Senior Clinical Scholar in Feline disease. Despite polydipsia, of this disease ensures an improved Medicine in 2004. Nicki is currently a IRIS TARGET fluid intake may not match level of care for feline CKD patients, lecturer in companion animal CLASSIFICATION PHOSPHATE LEVEL urine output, and much of which can be performed in medicine at the veterinary school, STAGE II 0.81-1.45 mmol/l decreasing appetite may general practice. with particular interests in critical STAGE III 0.81-1.61 mmol/l result in decreased fluid n References available on request care and feline medicine. STAGE IV 0.81-1.94 consumption from food. from [email protected]. 26 FELINE VETERINARY PRACTICE AUGUST 2010 First ISFM congress attracts delegates from 26 countries THE International Society of Feline Medicine (ISFM) Congress was held Above: delegates in Amsterdam enjoying a free from 18th to 20th welcome June. reception, There were 452 complete with delegates from 26 drinks in ISFM countries, including pink, in the the US, China and spectacular South Korea. UK Winter Garden delegates accounted at the Hotel for a third of those Krasnapolsky, attending. the venue for “Release the beast” was the theme of the Novartis Saturday the Amsterdam This was the night party. Pictured (from left in front) are wolf-beast Rachel congress, first event held since Dean who was chained to her beauty Callum Blair (runners-up courtesy of the organisation for best fancy dress), and Rachel Crowe from Virbac who was Merial Animal changed its name awarded the title of best female fancy dress. Behind them are Health. Right: Dr from the European Estonian delegate Olga Sjatkovskaja (who incidentally won a Sheilah Society of Feline free registration to the 2011 ISFM congress in Vienna in the Robertson Medicine. congress draw) and Georgie Herbert. Not pictured is John discussing pain The main Helps of Intervet who took the prize for best male fancy recognition in themes were feline dress, a glittering 70s disco ensemble in lurid colours. cats.

pain management and dentistry and the Advisory Bureau’s chief executive, sponsors were Boehringer Ingelheim, Claire Bessant. Hill’s, Merial, Bayer, Intervet-Schering MP3 recordings of most of the Plough and Pfizer Animal Health. congress talks are available to download The keynote speakers on dentistry from www.isfm.net at £2.99 each or were Philippe Hennet and Margherita £60 for all 22 sessions. The congress Gracis; Sheilah Robertson, Polly Taylor proceedings cost £40 and can be and Duncan Lascelles spoke on feline ordered online or from FAB pain management. headquarters on 01747 871 872. The MP3 recordings and the proceedings New ideas can be bought together for £80. Delegates said they found the lectures n The 2011 ISFM congress will be held on pain recognition and control in Vienna from 23rd to 26th June, with particularly useful. The speakers the combined themes of feline provided practical tips and shared new ophthalmology and respiratory disease. information in this difficult area of Full details will be posted on feline medicine, said the Feline www.isfm.net. Three ‘easy to give’ commitment made by pharmaceutical companies in making dosing awards presented medicines easier,” said the FAB chief THREE additional products have executive, Claire Bessant. been awarded Feline Advisory Bureau The awards are determined by the Chronic Kidney Disease: (FAB) Easy to Give Awards FAB feline expert panel of veterinary The recipients are: Virbac, for surgeons. Since 2005, 21 products Effipro, a spot-on flea and tick have received an award. Catch treatment supplied in a new style of pipette which enables the owner to it early open it prior to application without the contents spilling; and Novartis for both Onsior, a NSAID, and Ask your Bayer Territory Manager for the new Renalzin CKD care protocol to help Fortekor, an ACE inhibitor. Onsior identify kidney disease earlier. tablets are small and flavoured to be A new era in phosphate binding accepted easily by the majority of Controlling phosphate levels cats; Fortekor tablets are flavoured to is essential in all cats with CKD www.renalzin.co.uk encourage cats to take them.. Rachel Crowe of Virbac and Ricardo “The awards recognise the Garvao of Novartis, with their awards. Seraquin contains Glucosamine HCl, Chondroitin Sulphate and Curcumin. This is not a product which is subject to authorisation by the Irish Medicines Board. Further information is available from Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Bracknell, RG12 8YS, UK. Tel: +44 (0)1344 746959. E-mail: [email protected]. NBCD Date of preparation: December 2008. AHD5912b. Life’s no dress rehearsal Even princesses need a little support. 28 CANINE VETERINARY PRACTICE AUGUST 2010 Pathophysiology and diagnosis of

due to poor semen quality. intact male dogs.7 prostatic disease There is no particular breed 3. Prostatic abscess disposition; however, a recent THE prostate is the only major tract infections. Abscessation of the prostate is caused retrospective study at the University of accessory sex gland in the dog. It is With increasing age and under the by a pre-existing parenchymal infection Utrecht revealed that the Bouvier des a bilobed structure that completely influence of androgens the prostate which develops into micro-abscesses Flandres had almost 8.5 times more risk encircles the proximal portion of the undergoes spontaneous enlargement that later coalesce into larger abscesses. of developing the disease than other urethra. In young referred to as benign In severe cases, dogs with prostatic breeds.7 animals, the prostate prostatic hyperplasia. abscess, peritonitis and septicaemia may All prostatic tumours reported are lies entirely within Several different show signs of septic shock.4 malignant and the majority are the pelvic cavity but diseases of the adenocarcinomas. In some cases with sexual maturity prostate occur in 4. Prostatic and para-prostatic cysts transitional cell carcinomas from the it increases in size middle-aged and older Two types of prostatic cysts are bladder can extend into the prostate. and assumes an dogs and include recognised: prostatic retention cysts, Prostatic carcinomas (PCA) are very abdominal position. benign hyperplasia, which are thought to develop by malignant tumours and metastases are Histologically, the prostatitis, prostatic accumulation of fluid after occlusion of usually already present at the time of prostate has an abscess, prostatic and parenchymal ducts, and para-prostatic diagnosis. epithelial and a stromal Dr HENRY para-prostatic cysts, cysts, which only have minimal The main sites of metatstatic spread component. The L’EPLATTENIER prostatic metaplasia communication with prostatic are the sublumbar lymph nodes, lungs epithelial cells form in the ﬁrst of two and prostatic neoplasia. parenchyma. and skeletal system, particularly the tubule-aveoli that drain articles on the With the exception of Para-prostatic cysts are thought to lumbar vertebrae. into the urethra. The prostate, discusses prostatic neoplasia, be remnants of the uterus masculinus, prostate is surrounded the pathogenesis, prostatic disease whereas retention cysts are associated Clinical signs of prostatic disease by a capsule containing clinical signs and generally affects intact with parenchymal changes such as BPH, Prostatic disease can produce a wide smooth muscle fibres diagnosis male dogs. metaplasia or neoplasia. Both types of variety of different clinical signs ranging that extend into the cysts can reach considerable size and from weight loss to septic shock. Dogs organ, dividing the Pathogenesis of may exercise pressure on the colon or showing signs of tenesmus, penile alveolar tissue into prostatic disease the urethra, interfering with defaecation discharge (blood) not associated with distinct lobules. 1. Benign prostatic or urination. Alternatively they may micturition, haematuria, pyuria, Blood supply to the prostate is hypertrophy/hyperplasia (BPH) become infected and undergo stranguria, urinary incontinence, caudal supplied by the prostatic artery, which BPH occurs commonly in older dogs. abscessation. abdominal pain, acute abdomen or arises from the pudendal or umbilical In BPH there is an increase in cell size ambulatory difficulty should be artery. Anastomoses can be found (hypertrophy) and cell number 5. Prostatic squamous metaplasia evaluated for prostatic disorders.1 between the prostatic vessels and the (hyperplasia). Two forms of BPH may Squamous metaplasia is the In addition, prostatic disease may be urethral artery, and the cranial and be distinguished: glandular hyperplasia transformation of the normally cubic associated with and present as other caudal rectal artery. Venous blood and complex hyperplasia (or cystic prostatic epithelial cells into squamous clinical problems such as perineal returns via the prostatic vein to the hyperplasia). epithelium under the influence of hernia. internal iliac vein. Lymph drains into the BPH occurs only in intact male oestrogens. The iliac lymph nodes. Sympathetic dogs, suggesting hormonal modulation most frequent innervation is provided by the of the disease. The precise pathogenesis cause of high hypogastric nerve, which stimulates the is, however, not entirely understood. It serum levels of active secretory process and expulsion is thought that variations in the ratio of oestrogens in of secretions by smooth muscle circulating androgens (testosterone and male dogs is the contractions. Parasympathetic di-hydro-testosterone) and oestrogens presence of a innervation with fibers from the pelvic with increasing age may induce the testicular Sertoli nerve also contributes to smooth morphological changes associated with cell tumor (either muscle contraction.1 BPH.3 in a normally Fluid secreted by the prostate forms descended or in more than 90% of the total volume of 2. Prostatitis a cryptorchid the ejaculate2 and is expulsed in the first Infection of prostate parenchyma testicle). and third fractions of the ejaculate. Its occurs through ascending bacterial main functions are to reduce the infection from the urethra. Acute and 6. Prostatic Figure 1. A. Ultrasound scan of a normal prostate in an intact viscosity of the ejaculate and to facilitate chronic infections are recognised. It is neoplasia male dog. Note the homogeneous structure of the sperm transport. Prostatic secretions are likely that an underlying parenchymal Tumours of the parenchyma. B. Ultrasound scan of a normal prostate in a acidic and have a bactericidal effect, change is responsible for the prostate are not castrated male dog. Note, apart from the smaller size, the relatively hypoechoic structure of the parenchyma. which may prevent ascending urinary establishment of an infection. Cystic commonly seen BPH is frequently seen in dogs with in dogs. Usually Henry L’Eplattenier, DrMedVet, PhD, prostatitis. E. coli followed by S. aureus, old dogs are DipECVS, MRCVS, grew up in the Klebsiella spp. and Proteus mirabilis are the affected with an French-speaking part of Switzerland. pathogens most frequently isolated from average age of He studied at Bern University and trained as a small animal surgeon at infected prostates. Occasionally occurrence of 10 5,6 Zurich University. He obtained a PhD infections with anaerobic bacteria and years and it from Utrecht University last year for fungi are diagnosed. appears that his research on prostate cancer in Prostatitis can be either acute, castrated males dogs and is now a director and head causing depression, painful rectal have a greater of surgery at VRCC, Veterinary palpation, fever, straining to urinate or risk of Referrals, in Laindon, Essex. He can defaecate and a stiff-legged gait. Or it developing be contacted on can be chronic and asymptomatic or prostatic [email protected]. causing only sterility in breeding males carcinoma than NEW!

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Contrast urethrography may assist in either by collecting the ejaculate or by identifying the position of the prostate. prostatic massage. Fluid obtained can be Prostatamegaly can cause dorsal examined cytologically or used for dislocation and compression of the culture and sensitivity testing. colon. In the case of neoplasia, Additionally, samples for cytological proliferative changes on the dorsal examination can be obtained by fine aspect of the lumbar vertebrae and needle aspiration of the prostate gland ventral border of the ilium may be seen1 or by aspiration of prostatic cells into a (see Figure 2). urinary catheter under ultrasound Results of complete blood count control of the location of the catheter and serum chemistry are often tip.8 Finally, surgical biopsy of the unremarkable and not specific for prostate is a somewhat more invasive prostatic disease. Changes such as technique for the diagnosis of prostatic leukocytosis and neutrophilia with left- diseases. shift may reflect infection in the case of prostatitis or prostatic abscess. In 1. Basinger, R. R., Robinette, C. L. and advanced stages associated with septic Spaulding, K. A. (2003) The Prostate. Figure 2. Lateral radiograph of the lumbosacral area in a dog with metastatic shock, changes relative to organ failure In: Slatter, D. (ed.) Textbook of Small prostate carcinoma. Note the bone proliferation on the ventral aspect of the may be seen. Urinalysis including Animal Surgery. 3rd edition, Philadelphia: 5th, 6th and 7th lumbar vertebrae. bacteriological culture and sensitivity WB Saunders, 1,542-1,557. examination. Ultrasound examination testing are useful in determining the 2. Johnston, S. D., Kamolpatana, K., Diagnosis of prostatic disease has the advantage of allowing aetiology of prostatic infections and Root-Kustritz, M. V. and Johnston, G. Besides a complete anamnesis including visualisation of the structure of the choosing the appropriate antibiotic R. (2000) Anim Reprod Sci 60-61: 405- reproductive, urinary and prostate and the identification of fluid- treatment. 415. gastrointestinal system questions as well filled cavities as well as an estimation of CPSE (canine prostate-specific 3. Mahapokai, W. S. (2000) Hormonally- as recording of previous treatment, prostatic volume. arginine esterase) is a hormone secreted Induced Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia in general examination of the dog is Ultrasonography is also useful for by prostatic epithelial cells under the the Dog. Thesis, University of important as bacterial infection of the guiding a biopsy needle into suspicious control of sex hormones. The protein Utrecht. prostate can cause signs of fever and areas of the prostate. The normal belongs to the family of kallikreins like 4. White, R. A. S. (2000) Clin Tech in systemic disease. Weight loss and prostatic appearance is slightly PSA (prostate-specific antigen) in man. Small An Pract 15 (1): 46-51. cachexia may also be associated with hyperechoic compared to splenic CPSE is present in sperm (comprising 5. Dorfmann, M. and Barsanti, J. (1995) neoplasia. parenchyma and has a uniform more than 90% of the protein in Comp Cont Educ 17 (6): 791-810. A complete physical exam should homogenous pattern (see Figure 1). prostatic fluid) and in blood. When 6. Cooley, D. M. and Waters, D. J. (2001) include careful abdominal and rectal With benign hyperplasia the prostate prostatic cells become hyperplastic, the In: Small Animal Clinical Oncology. palpation. Both testicles are palpated to may become more hyperechoic and serum concentration of CPSE increases. Withrow, S. J. and MacEwen, E. G. exclude the presence of tumours. In the heterogenous in structure. Cysts and The serum concentration of CPSE has (eds). Saunders: Philadelphia, 478-489. case of urinary retention, catheterisation abscesses are seen as fluid-filled cavities. been shown to be an excellent indicator 7. Teske, E., Naan, E. C., van Dijk, E. of the urethra allows determination of Tumours may appear hypoechoic at an of BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia) M., Van Garderen, E. and Schalken, J. urethral patency. early stage, then become hyperechoic in the dog. A. (2002) Mol Cell Endocrinol 197: 251- Imaging techniques used for the and contain mineralisation later on. Other laboratory tests used in the 255. diagnosis of prostatic disease include On survey radiographs it may be diagnosis of prostatic diseases include 8. Teske, E. and Nickel, R. (1996) ultrasound and radiographic difficult to localize the prostate. analysis of prostatic fluid obtained Kleintierpraxis 41: 239-247.

Six seminars on guidance on how practices can educate The programme was created to The programme is, says Dechra, pet owners in the importance of oral add support to the firm’s range of suitable for training new staff, as a improving care,” she said. Vetivex fluids. The coursework, which refresher course for existing staff and periodontal health The six locations and dates are: counts for six hours of CPD learning, as a comprehensive day to day THE BVDA lecture tour on Improving Cardiff, 14th September; Glasgow, combines theoretical and practical resource. For details see Periodontal Health returns this autumn 16th September; Sevenoaks, 28th advice on fluid therapy. www.fluidtherapy.co.uk. with six seminars. September; Manchester, 19th October; Speakers include: Norman Darlington, 26th October; and Prof. Crispin to chair advisory council Johnston, a past president of the Birmingham, 28th October. PROFESSOR Sheila Crispin has been appointed founding chairman of the European Veterinary Dental College; The evening seminars, which are Advisory Council on the Welfare Issues of Dog Breeding. The creation of John Robinson, dentist; and Lisa open to both vets and nurses, this non-statutory Council was a key recommendation of three recent reports Milella, president of the British contribute two hours CPD and cost on the genetic, conformation and other threats to dog welfare, such as puppy Veterinary Dental Association. The £35 per person and £25 for each farming, which can arise from dog breeding lecture content is being extended to subsequent delegate. A special group include resorptive lesions, fractured rate of £100 is available for any Dogs go swimming for charity teeth and dental radiography with practice that wishes to send a group SIX dogs which took part in a sponsored swimathon have raised more than greater emphasis on feline oral care. of four. To reserve a place, call the £7,500 for the Animal Health Trust. Joined by members of the AHT’s small According to Lisa Milella, the 2010 BVDA lecture tour reservation line on animal hydrotherapy unit, the 12-strong team took it in turns swimming for a lecture series helped alert vets and 01664 415 503. total of 12 hours. The aim was to raise funds to help buy a water treadmill for VNs to the importance of oral health, the AHT’s hydrotherapy unit. The AHT needs to raise a further £20,000; benefitting both pets and practices. Fluid therapy training donations can be made at www.virginmoneygiving.com/paddlingpaws. “We know that four out of five dogs DECHRA Veterinary Products over the age of three show signs of reports that more than 6,000 Holidays stressful for pets and owners periodontal disease but unfortunately veterinary surgeons and veterinary A SURVEY carried out earlier this year for Ceva Animal Health has found that many go untreated. This is mainly nurses registered in the past year for nearly half a million UK cat and dog owners never go on holiday for fear of because the problems that this can its online Fluids Knowledge upsetting their pet’s routine. The research also revealed that nearly half of pet lead to are not fully understood. Programme, with over 1,400 owners who do take holidays experience guilt as a result of leaving their animal “These seminars will not only help completing the small animal CPD at a kennel or cattery, with nearly two-thirds (62%) considering the experience delegates to recognise early signs of certificate and almost 100 acquiring to be just as stressful or even more stressful for them than for their pet. oral disease but also offer practical the equine CPD certificate. “Worms? Absolutely Not!”

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† Sales by value – all channels (MAT April ‘10) Drontal Plus Flavour Tablets. Each tablet contains 50 mg praziquantel, 144 mg pyrantel embonate and 150 mg febantel. NFA-VPS Drontal Plus XL Tablets. Each tablet contains 175 mg praziquantel, 504 mg pyrantel embonate and 525 mg febantel. NFA-VPS Drontal Cat Tablets. Each tablet contains 230 mg pyrantel embonate and 20 mg praziquantel. NFA-VPS Drontal Cat XL Tablets. Each tablet contains 345 mg pyrantel embonate and 30 mg praziquantel. NFA-VPS Please refer to appropriate data sheet. Further information available on request. ® Registered Trade Mark of Bayer AG. Bayer plc, Animal Health Division, Bayer House, Strawberry Hill, Newbury RG14 1JA. Tel: 01635 563000. www.drontal.com 32 FUND-RAISING VETERINARY PRACTICE AUGUST 2010 Successful golf day in aid of Hearing Dogs NOW into its third year and seeming Helen Bowman of Bayer Animal to become a fixture on the golfing Health, who also sponsored a team of calendar, Hearing Dogs for Deaf vets, again ran a putting competition People recently held its annual which people entered before and after The Penbode Vet Group winning charity golf day at Bigbury Golf their round of golf: this raised close on The second prizes were four pencil golf team (from left): Andrew Cobner Club in South Devon. £100. It was for the longest putt of the bags sponsored by John Cooper of (vet), Peter Freeburn (client), John The objectives were to have an day on the putting green, the starting Dunlops Veterinary Wholesalers; the Bower (trustee), Richard Gard and enjoyable day’s golf on line being moved back third prizes of golf equipment vouchers Robert Moore (client). this spectacular cliff- three feet every time by Graham Campbell of the Beech top course and to beat someone holed the House Veterinary Hospital in And who won the day? It was the last year’s total of JOHN BOWER putt, and by the day’s Southampton; and the fourth prizes of veterinary team from the Penbode £2,500 towards the a trustee of Hearing end the winner, four bottles of Sherborne Golf Club Veterinary Group in Holsworthy, training of a Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, Stephen Kent, had wine by Peter Gripper of Anval. The Devon, with 84 points, led by Andrew Dog. We managed reports on another holed out at 20 feet. nearest the pin (ladies and gents Cobner who appropriately is the both! well-supported and Hearing Dogs ran a separately) and straightest drive were inspiration behind the Western Counties This year I decided keenly contested raffle with numerous donated by Paul Jeffries of Merial. Veterinary Association’s lively golf to run it with teams of event prizes including two Both veterinary and local companies group. Richard Gard, also a keen four, three-quarter digital cameras from also sponsored some of the 18 holes on WCVA golfer, had joined this team. handicap, best two Animalcare and Intervet- the course and sponsored team entries. In second place was a local Bigbury scores to count at each hole, and Schering Plough, six months free dog or Veterinary holes were sponsored by team, and the next highest veterinary managed to tempt 19 teams to enter. cat food from Hill’s, various rounds of Bayer, Fort Dodge, Andrew Cobner of team with 80 points was Peter Gripper, This meant that we had 76 golfers on golf from local clubs, a year’s supply of Penbode Veterinary Group, and The Peter Morley, Steve Grills and Ray Male the course with a team teeing off every Langage Farm Ice Cream, a BMW Z4 Veterinary Hospital Group, Plymouth, – a team sponsored by Keith Dickinson 10 minutes. sports car for the weekend from Ocean while another five holes were sponsored (who declined any prizes!). The day was again supported by BMW, and many others. by local companies; Betfair.com very The day raised just over £4,600 for some wonderful local, national and The first prize of a pair of golf generously sponsored two holes, and Hearing Dogs – almost doubling last veterinary companies which sponsored shoes for each of the four members of Keith Dickinson (Veterinary Insurance year’s total. Our grateful thanks to all both golf and raffle prizes and the the winning team was provided by Agency/ Dickinson’s Insurance) entered the golfers and, of course, the generous various holes around the course. Petplan (which also entered a team). two teams! sponsors.

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I spoke to many students at the profession? The profession looks after recent SPVS final-year seminar and its young graduates very well by It’s a vet’s life... consistently I was told the kind of providing those first two layers of WHY did you become a vet? Many ability to continue to develop personal position they were seeking. It is a fact needs: physiological and safety. of us had to answer that as part of relationships, things which were as of our profession that many of the Because we do this, vets move onto our interviews for vet school and I commonplace as background radiation positions new graduates take can be in the upper layers and as such demand understand the most common during our time at university, especially places away from things like family and and seek love/belonging, esteem and answer is a variation of wanting as a Liverpool undergraduate. friends, which can make it all the more eventually self-actualisation. And as and enjoying working with animals. I could argue for hours that difficult to achieve the upper layers of such we need to try and provide the Looking back now, without Liverpool University and the vet the pyramid. opportunity to achieve this. realising, it was probably my school had a social scene unrivalled The working hours and Some parts are easier than others – perception of the lifestyle that drove anywhere else! Let’s just hope that the responsibilities, on-call work and the allowing vets to do their job and enjoy my decision to pursue such a career. loss of the existing bar doesn’t cause a requirement of vets to read around it helps immensely with esteem and Practices always loss in atmosphere! cases and continue their education respect. The harder part is in the social seemed happy places As I spoke to with PDP and CPD also add side of things because the bar is set so where people enjoyed many of my friends, additional obstacles to reaching the high during our time at university. their work and going I quickly began to level of self-actualisation. It is important for practices to out on calls to visit realise that we are in a acknowledge the likely demands on the farm and equine fortunate position. I Level of contrast their staff and do their best to clients was always a lot asked several of my What further compounds the encourage the pursuit of the upper of fun. friends to list the top difficulties many young vets describe layers. The vets I saw three things they were in maintaining the QoL and lifestyle How to do that is difficult and I practice with really looking for as a new they want to have (i.e. lack of social most certainly do not have the answer seemed to enjoy their graduate to provide and sport opportunities, free time, – regular social events, a good work- job on the whole but I RICHARD them with an being sued, making mistakes) is the life balance and a supportive network remember one vet SANDERSON acceptable quality of level of contrast from their time at of colleagues are three things that telling me to consider continues his series on life, and was expecting university. come to mind but those ideas are another career in adapting to life them to list the same There is no doubt in my mind that hardly exhaustive. professions such as outside university things that my fellow the vet faculties’ social atmosphere is Is such pursuit one of the reasons law, medicine and vets and I had listed. unreplicated in any other career, the average time spent in the first job finance as being a vet Instead they all education institute or workplace – a is less than two years? wasn’t what it used to be; the advances listed the same things: getting a job clear indication is the number of past n The author wishes to thank everyone of commercial practices forcing vets utilising their degree and the security students who get involved/maintain who answered his questions but to go out and find business rather than of a house/car, etc. It then became contact with their old faculties. particularly Mr D. Lace, BSc, and Mr S. the traditional method of clients apparent that the high employment So what does this mean for our McGovern, BA(Hons), for their help. finding you and remaining loyal. rate of new veterinary graduates and Quality of life (QoL) can be the provision of either described as a form of subjective well- accommodation/transport or a salary being, i.e. the level of satisfaction an that made securing those more realistic individual feels within the context of was not replicated in other careers. the lifestyle he or she lives. A definite It was in 1943 that Abraham and quantifiable definition, however, Maslow first described the hierarchy of remains relatively elusive and people needs in A Theory of Human Motivation. will often list different indicators: a Often represented in a pyramid starving man may list food as his main (below), the most basic physiologic QoL indicator; a cancer sufferer may needs provide the base, progressing name good health and remission as his through to the tip of the pyramid: self- or hers; a wealthy entrepreneur with actualisation. seemingly everything may identify As veterinary graduates we very company. quickly achieve the first two layers: Those with a greater understanding physiological and safety. It seems that of sociology than me describe lifestyle achieving these first two layers after as a combination of needs, wants and finishing degrees in other subjects is motivations. It is reflective of an not so straightforward and as the individual’s attitudes and values and is hierarchy level of need moves upward based on the way an individual or after the previous level is satisfied the population group live. layers such as love/belonging, esteem So is the QoL and lifestyle of the and self-actualisation are not deemed modern day vet comparable with the as important. In contrast, vet graduates other professions and careers that immediately reach the levels of upper young people of the calibre applying 3 layers because the bottom two are to vet schools consider? When I more readily met. decided to write this article I planned to focus on QoL variables such as social and sports opportunities and the

Richard O. Sanderson, BVSc, MRCVS, graduated from Liverpool in 2009. After a year in mixed practice in Shropshire he moved to Staffordshire where he is again in mixed practice. He can be contacted on [email protected]. 38 YOUNG GRADUATES VETERINARY PRACTICE AUGUST 2010 It isn’t easy to find the perfect job... I GRADUATED from the RVC on jobs website. As the weeks wore on I became 8th July 2009 and started work in For anyone who is about to start more and more frustrated. I had made mixed practice on 2nd December. looking for a job, I would recommend a decision not to go travelling and get Many people would say that a break visiting the website on Mondays and started with work so I wouldn’t forget between university and starting Tuesdays as most jobs are loaded up everything I had just been taught at work is exactly what you need; then, just occasionally there would be a college. however, when this break is glimmer of excitement on a Thursday There is nothing more depressing unintentional and is due to being or Friday when more jobs would than sitting in rainy England and unable to find employment, life can appear, but this was seldom the case. reading about all the fun your friends become extremely frustrating. At one point I was checking the are having in Thailand, Australia and I started my job- website approximately India. The urge to join them all was search in August – 15 times a day, just very strong, however there was always some would say that hoping that my the chance that the next day someone this was my first error perfect job would might ring to ask me for interview. and that I should have appear. begun looking sooner: The big problem First interview The author enjoying life in practice. however, I did not feel was that I didn’t hear Finally, towards the end of September, it was sensible to job- anything. Weeks I got my first interview. Again I Working was not an option as you hunt in the build-up to would go by from the remembered everything we had been had to be free if an interview came up my finals and unluckily time first contact was told at college and left Yorkshire for at a moment’s notice; the same was for those of us at the made and I wouldn’t the enemy county of Lancashire (this true of travelling. Mother made full use RVC our exams didn’t ALLY ANDERSON even know if people tells you just how desperate I was for of me as her (unpaid) housemaid, the start until most other describes her had got my CV. I employment). dogs had never been so well exercised vet schools had frustrating search for think there was a Now, people who have met me and I am now able to make chutney graduated. a job after graduating group of about 10 of know that I am not the shy and retiring from most of the things growing in I had always been last summer and her my peers all looking type, but I found it very difficult to get our garden. Fun though some of this told that getting into good fortune in for roughly the same a word in edgeways at this interview. was it was not quite what I expected to vet school was the ﬁnding a supportive sort of job. Naturally The two partners were very lovely and be doing after five years of veterinary tough bit and once practice we all ended up told me in great depth everything training. you’d made it out the applying for the same about their practice, but didn’t ask me a I had another couple of interviews, other side people would ones but it was some single question other than, “Do you one in Durham and one in Devon. I be begging for you to come and work comfort to know that there were other have any questions?” was very pleased when I was offered for them, so it was with some people out there in my situation and I left with a sense that I definitely neither as it would have been very hard confidence that I took my first look at getting just as miserable. didn’t have the job but to turn down a job you the “Vet Record jobs” website. was unsure how in that I have very strong didn’t want if you I was fairly optimistic to begin with, Something outdoors situation I could have feelings (and did couldn’t be sure you there were a couple of mixed jobs that Rumours started to come through that improved my chances. would ever get another sounded promising and which looked 100 people had applied for one job. To By this point it was have throughout interview. like a good starting point. Carefully me that is insane but it did make me all becoming too vet school) that More CVs were thinking about all the advice from our feel better about the fact I hadn’t heard depressing for words. far too many vets sent off. The problem Professional Studies week at college, I back from anyone. Mother told me to go are now being is it all takes so long. rang up the first practice. There were jobs being advertised, on the dole, Father trained: 250 of us For example, a job but long ago I made the decision that advised against it. CVs appears in the Vet Long wait begins... there was no way I could possibly work were sent off to every graduated from Record; the advert runs After a long and pleasant conversation only in small animal practice (if this corner of the country, the RVC last for four weeks and the partner asked me to send him my weren’t the case I’m sure this article jobs in New Zealand summer, which then the partners try to CV (which I had already crafted) and would have a very different tone) and were investigated, a very was a figure a lot narrow down people that I would hear from him shortly. I therefore I was limited to looking for unhelpful vet for interview. Then the also sent my CV to a couple of other jobs which were less than 50% small employment agency of vets I have interviews happen, practices. animal and more than 50% something tried to help and failed. spoken to could spaced out over two Then the long wait for responses outdoors. A trip down to BVA not believe... weeks, and then you began… I remember being particularly congress in Cardiff hear about a week I began to get into a routine: get up irritated by some correspondence in resulted in me being informed by a later. just after parents have left for work, Veterinary Times. A vet was suggesting senior member of the profession That’s if it’s a job you are lucky turn on the computer, have breakfast, that there was clearly still a shortage of during his speech that vets were most enough to get an interview for. see if computer has loaded, go to vets or there wouldn’t still be 100 jobs definitely employable, which I found Otherwise you just don’t hear anything village to fetch newspaper, shout at advertised in the magazine each week. highly amusing. for over two months. I still haven’t internet for not working, hang out I counted every advert: eight One of my friends who had made heard back from a couple of practices washing, fix internet, go to Vet Record welcomed new grads and five were for a small mistake in her finals passed her – I assume that they are in the process mixed practice (experience preferred). re-sits at the end of September. Within of writing to me because it is just plain Alison Anderson, BVetMed, MRCVS, Having spent half my life working to a week she had a small animal job. Still rude to not respond to a job was the winner of the 2009 the point where I would finally be a a big group of my friends and I sat application, even if you receive far Animalcare Award at the Royal vet, there was no way I was going to alone at home twiddling our thumbs more applications than you expect. Veterinary College. compromise. looking for a large or equine job. Now, it’s hard not to make this AUGUST 2010 VETERINARY PRACTICE YOUNG GRADUATES 39 sound like an article written by economy but that is So the transition Chris back and three-point-turn on very narrow someone who is whingeing because something that seems from vet student apologised for not country lanes, my ability to locate a they expected to get a job very easily hard to assess. to vet hasn’t accepting straight away farmer having reached the farm is and didn’t. One thing which became By mid-November I been quite as and explained it had gradually improving and I am now abundantly clear was that no one in the was beginning to been a bit unexpected. confident that I can perform the task veterinary world seemed to realise what consider other career smooth as I He replied, “Surely I have been called out for. was going on. options – baker, imagined it you knew someone I am incredibly lucky to be Every practice I contacted spoke of professional dog walker, would be but I would offer you a job working in a practice that is so their utter amazement at the number of gardener, stripper … am certain I eventually.” I didn’t like supportive – there is always someone new graduate applicants for each job however, I received an e- to point out that for on the end of phone if needed, and the difficulty they were having mail asking me to come made the right five months it felt as although finding a mobile signal can going through all the CVs. for interview for a career choice. though this moment be a problem in the valleys of North I have very strong feelings (and did mainly farm job in would never happen. Wales! have throughout vet school) that far Oswestry, Shropshire. By this point I I have now been working for six So the transition from vet student too many vets are now being trained: felt I had nothing left to lose. months to the day at the time of to vet hasn’t been quite as smooth as 250 of us graduated from the RVC last I felt the interview had gone OK writing and I am loving every minute. I imagined it would be but I am summer, which was a figure a lot of but didn’t want to get my hopes up All the trauma from the summer certain I made the right career choice. vets I have spoken to could not believe, too much as it was a very nice practice seems a distant memory stirred only I am incredibly grateful to the and is probably the reason why so (friendly staff, plenty of parking space, by my need to write this article. I do practices that welcomed me for EMS many of us are struggling to find work. big building, nice town) and I didn’t about 90% farm work and 10% small and prepared me so well for the want to be disapapointed. animal with the occasional horse experiences of working life that can’t Fairly consistent One morning a couple of weeks vaccination thrown in. be learned in a lecture theatre. Maybe it will all turn out fine but if I later I got a phone call. “We really The practice was coming up to sitting my finals liked you and think you would fit in is in Shropshire now (and considering a career in farm well here...” I was waiting for the near the Welsh or equine) I would be rather “but…” which I had received from border so a lot concerned. I would say the average the other four jobs I had apparently of my time is time it took my friends to find a job got down to the last two for; however, spent looking for was three months; in some cases it the sentence ended “and we’d love to unpronounceable took up to six months. offer you the job”. farms. I obviously can’t speak for my This was followed by a long I have learnt entire year group but the stories seem silence and me stammering “Could I many skills since fairly consistent no matter who you give you a ring back in just a minute.” leaving college: I speak to. Perhaps we have just been I took a few deep breaths and tried to have perfected Ally, Sarah Smyth and Eliza Collins making the most of their unlucky due to the state of the recover from the shock. I then rang the art of the unemployment.

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For more information call 01751 474 123 Available from all leading veterinary wholesalers now AUGUST 2010 VETERINARY PRACTICE RABBITS 41 Rabbits and Encephalitozoon cuniculi: what’s new? THIS common parasite, clinical examination and a full Rising antibody levels between the microsporidium, is spread in urine neurological examination to enable the two blood samples is more suggestive and affects primarily the nervous lesions to be localised, monitoring of of a current active infection or a system and kidneys (see Figure 1). progression and prognosis (see Figure possible flare-up of the existing Hind limb weakness and paralysis is 2). infection. However, if the antibody a result of the inflammation A urine sample may be collected for levels are the same at the first and surrounding the parasite causing full urinalysis to rule out other causes second blood sample, it is difficult to destruction of the nervous tissue. of polyuria and a urine protein to conclude too much. The severity of the Other signs commonly seen with creatinine ratio will help evaluate renal clinical signs does not appear to be this disease include a head tilt, seizuring, function (reference range 0.38, (Reusch, related to how high antibody levels are and loss of balance, tremors, renal Murray, Papasouliotis and Redrobe, in the blood (Kunstyr and others, failure and bladder weakness. 2009). Blood samples may be taken for 1986). Unfortunately, once the serum biochemistry to Kidney and/or liver biopsy may be rabbit develops severe evaluate kidney very useful in the diagnosis and The author – and friend. clinical signs this can function and rule out management of the disease (Csokai, There is no specific treatment that lead to death. BRIGITTE REUSCH other disease, routine Gruber, Kunzel, Tichy and Joachim, will reverse the damage caused by the Encephalitozoon cuniculi discusses the haematology to 2009). Biopsies can be obtained by presence of the parasite. Medication primarily infects and diagnosis, treatment, assess immune laproscopic surgery or laparotomy. [fenbendazole (Lapizole 20mg/kg PO causes significant disease prognosis and system and rule out q24h for 28 days)] can slow or halt the in rabbits, but may also prevention of this other disease. Treatment and prognosis rate of multiplication of the E. cuniculi be found in other common problem Urine can be As we learn more about how this parasite with in the body (Suter, Müller- mammals including submitted for PCR parasite affects the body, how the Doblies, Hatt and Deplazes, 2001). rodents, guinea pigs, foxes, detection of parasite immune system can deal with it and in Rabbits with uveitus should be cats, dogs, monkeys, goats, pigs, llamas shedding; as far as we know shedding some cases fully recover, we will be able treated with topical steroid eye drops and snakes (Shadduck and others, 1979; only occurs in the one to three months to interpret the clinical signs, results, and where secondary glaucoma Pang and Shadduck, 1985; Illanes and following infection (Cox and others, give appropriate treatment, assess develops this should also be managed. others, 1993; Lobo and others, 2003). 1979) (see Figure 3). response to treatment and advise on Fenbendazole treatment should also be Three strains of E. cuniculi have been A blood sample can be taken and prognosis based on scientific evidence. given. In most cases the eye can be identified (Didier and others, 1995). submitted for serology for E. cuniculi Several factors are likely to be saved with early and aggressive n Strain I = rabbit strain, also found in antibodies. This will measure IgG involved in the development of clinical treatment; where this fails an humans; antibodies that are produced by the disease or recovery from infection enucleation may be indicated. n Strain II = rodent strain; and rabbit if it has been exposed to the including: the parasite species and Early use of steroids may help n Strain III = dog strain, also found in disease at some stage in its life. strain, the route of infection, the age of reduce the inflammation caused by the humans. Serology for E. cuniculi antibodies is not the rabbit at the time of the infection presence of the parasite and increase It is potentially zoonotic and has useful in the short-term diagnosis, but and the rabbit’s immune status (Weber recovery rates from neurological signs, been associated with infections in raising titres can be suggestive of and others, 1994). although some recover with time. Care immunocompromised people. Infection current infection. However, care must Disease is more likely in needs to be taken with steroid use in has been diagnosed in rabbits in be taken with interpreting the results as immunodeficient rabbits, or young and rabbits as this causes severe Europe, Africa, America and Australia. 52% of healthy pet rabbits were found newborn animals with immature immunospuression. Supportive care Good hygiene practices should reduce to be seropositive in the UK (Keeble & immune systems (Didier and others, should be provided for all rabbits with the risks of human infection from Shaw, 2006). 2000). In rabbits with a healthy immune urine scalding due to renal or spores shed in the rabbit’s urine. More information indicating the system, clinically silent chronic infection neurological disease (see Figure 4). stage of infection and immune may develop. Concurrent infection, Supportive nutrition may also be Diagnostic investigation response can be obtained by taking two stress or immunosuppression may then required. Benazepril hydrochloride, an Diagnostic investigation of the disease blood samples one month apart. If the lead to the development of clinical ACE inhibitor, has also been shown, in should include a thorough history, antibody levels to E. cuniculi are falling, disease. a preliminary study, to decrease Brigitte Reusch, BVetMed (Hons), this suggests that a recent history of Rabbits with renal disease tend to proteinuria and reduce azotaemia, CertZooMed, MRCVS, graduated with infection or a possible flare-up of an have a worse prognosis than those with indicating improved renal function in honours from the RVC in 2002. After existing E. cuniculi infection has uveitus or neurological signs (Kuunzel rabbits. Further work is being carried a period as an exotic animal locum occurred. et al., 2008). out into ensuring safe dosages, and small animal assistant she joined currently a dose of <0.1mg/kg orally the Royal (Dick) in Edinburgh as a once daily is recommended, as evidence small animal intern. She was suggests rabbits may be highly sensitive appointed the ﬁrst RWF Rabbit and to the hypotensive effects of benazepril Zoo animal resident in the UK in 2004, (Girling, 2003). The author has found based at Bristol Zoo and the this dose to be very effective at University of Bristol. She ran a Rabbit reducing the proteinuria. and Exotic Veterinary Referral service in the south-west and returned to the Regular monitoring of blood R(D)VS in 2008 as a lecturer in rabbit pressure, serum creatinine, urea and medicine and surgery. She is head of electrolytes is strongly recommended the University’s Exotic Animal with ACE inhibitor treatment in rabbits. Handling Facility and the veterinary In some cases glomerular filtration rate adviser for the British Rabbit Council. is dependent on hypertension and She holds the RCVS certiﬁcate in treatment with ACE inhibitors can be Zoological Medicine and is currently associated with an increase in working towards her Diploma. Figure 1. Diagram showing E. cuniculi life cycle and pathogenesis. azotaemia; this and hypotension, or 42 RABBITS VETERINARY PRACTICE AUGUST 2010

n Prophylactic treatment with fenbendazole (Lapizole) is currently recommended.

References Csokai, J., Gruber, A., Kunzel, F., Tichy, A. and Joachim, A. (2009) Encephalitozoonosis in pet rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus): Pathohistological Figure 2. Deep tendon reﬂex testing of the triceps findings in animals with tendon, assessing spinal nerves C6 and C7. latent infection versus hyperkalaemia, are all indications to clinical manifestation. Parasitology Research Figure 4. Urine scalding is commonly Figure 3. Free catch urine samples can stop or reduce ACE inhibitor treatment 104 (3): 629-635. seen in rabbits affected with E. cuniculi be easily obtained from litter trained in rabbits. Didier, E. S., Vossbrinck, C. R., Baker, M. and may be because of neurological rabbits. D., Rogers, L. B., Bertucci, D. C. and deﬁcits to the bladder or renal failure. Prevention Shadduck, J. A. (1995) Identification and Prevent transmission by reducing characterisation of three Encephalitozoon rabbits to experimental infection with 1,071-1,077. environmental contamination. The cuniculi strains. Parasitology 111: 411-21. Encephalitozoon cuniculi. Veterinary Reusch, B., Murray, J. K., Papasouliotis, parasite can be easily removed with Girling, S. J. (2003) Preliminary study into Parasitology 21: 223-232. K. and Redrobe, S. P. (2009) Urinary thorough disinfection. the possible use of benazepril on the Kuunzel, F., Gruber, A., Tichy, A., protein:creatinine ratio in rabbits in The following common management of renal disease in rabbits. Edelhofer, R., Nell, B., Hassan, J., relation to their serological status to disinfectants have been found to be Paper presented at the British Veterinary Leschnik, M., Thalhammer, J. G. and Encephalitozoon cuniculi. Veterinary Record 164 very effective: bleach requires more Zoological Society Proceedings: Infectious Joachim, A. (2008) Clinical symptoms and (10): 293-295. than seven minutes contact time to be diseases of exotics, Edinburgh Zoo. diagnosis of encephalitozoonosis in pet Shadduck, J. A., Watson, W. T., Pakes, S. P. lethal to E. cuniculi whereas a dilution of Illanes, O. G, Tiffani-Castiglioni, E., rabbits. Veterinary Parasitology 151 (2-4): and Cali, A. (1979) Animal infectivity of 1-10% bleach requires only 30 seconds Edwards, J. F. and Shadduck, J. A. (1993) 115-124. Encephalitozoon cuniculi.J. Parasitol. 65: 123- to render the parasite non-infectious; Spontaneous encephalitozoonosis in an Lobo, M., Teles, A., Barao Da Cunha, M., 129. the routine use of 70% ethanol experimental group of guinea pigs. Journal Henriques, J., Mafalda Lourenco, A., Suter, C., Müller-Doblies, U. U., Hatt, J.- following the cleaning up of rabbit of Veterinary Diagnostic Investigation 5: 649- Antunes, F. and Matos, O. (2003) M. and Deplazes, P. (2001) Prevention urine in the veterinary surgery, rescue 651. Microsporidia detection in stools from and treatment of Encephalitozoon centres, pet shops and rabbit shows will Keeble, E. J. and Shaw, D. J. (2006) pets and animals from the zoo in cunicui infection in rabbits with help reduce cross-contamination as it Seroprevalence of antibodies to Portugal: A preliminary study. Journal of fenbendazole. Veterinary Record 148: 478- only requires 30 seconds to render the Encephalitozoon cuniculi in domestic rabbits Eukaryotic Microbiology, 581-582 480. parasite non-infectious (Waller, 1979). in the United Kingdom. Veterinary Record Pang, V. F. and Shadduck, J. A. (1985) Waller, T. (1979) Sensitivity of n Reduce mixing of rabbits in pet 158: 539-544. Susceptibility of cats, sheep and swine to Encephalitozoon cuniculi to various shops, rescue homes and breeding Kunstyr, I., Lev, L. and Naumann, S. a rabbit isolate of Encephalitozoon cuniculi. temperatures, disinfectants and drugs. establishments. (1986) Humoral antibody response of American Journal of Veterinary Research 46: Laboratory Animal Science 13: 227-230.

BOOK REVIEW to remind me of how to produce to an image I have seen during my during my day-to-day work I would images of certain regions – the section, career or look through alternative reach for another book before this one. HANDBOOK OF SMALL for example, on positioning for head textbooks but under the time For the construction of detailed and ANIMAL RADIOLOGY AND and neck radiographs was a very useful constraints of practice this is easier said correct imaging reports I would use this ULTRASOUND: Techniques and reminder and if I were to require than done. book to help me and am sure of its use differential diagnoses images of this region I would reach for A textbook which combined the at the undergraduate level but as a By Ruth Dennis, Robert M. this book for guidance on how to details of this book and actual images general practitioner I’m unsure whether Kirberger, Frances Barr and Robert produce images of the highest quality. would be the first to turn to when I would spend part of the textbook H. Wrigley For students I think this book would interpreting an image but this book budget immediately on this one. Rating: 370pp; £44.99; Saunders Elsevier be useful both as a text for learning lacked the images, an intentional choice four out of 10. about conditions and the changes you I’m sure, which left me knowing that – Richard O. Sanderson This detailed book is produced with the would see radiographically and by intention of being applicable to all, ultrasonography, but it would need to be “from specialist radiologists through supplemented with actual patient data. general practitioners to veterinary The drawings are clear and without students”. It does not include any confusion but I wonder whether well- actual patient material and is instead labelled actual images would have based on well demarcated drawings. enlightened me even further? Unfortunately, as a general Let’s take the section on the lower practitioner I generally look for actual respiratory tract, for example. The patient data. Whilst I would not section is comprehensive and pretend that reading this text did not informative and gave great information At mutneys we remind me of some of the details of on the conditions of this area and their manufacture a wide abnormalities I have inevitably possible underlying aetiology. The range of dog care forgotten, I am more often than not drawings supplemented this well and it products. AAvvailable in both trade and retail looking for an image of the differential seemed unfortunate that I found myself sizes. diagnoses I consider most likely rather wanting to turn the page and see an For mororree information on our than the principles and changes you actual image, an opinion echoed by prrooducoducts and services, please contact us and we will be happy would expect with such a disorder. several of my colleagues. to sendd you out a cataloogue . Where I did find this text useful was Of course I could try and relate it ADDVVERRTTORIALT caA ss ute yd ShuttleworthhuttleworS VetVth VVeet Group Group in RRawtenstall,awtenstall,allall, LancashirLancashire re is a 3-vveet small animal practice that has stocked Hill’’ss™ Science S Plan™ for some time. In AAppril this yyeearr,, the ppractice principal Hammad Sarrwwar returrnned from BSAAVVVAA congrreess with news that illH ’’ss had launchedlaun a new range and he had alrready booked a promotional deal, with stock due to arrivvee sooon. Claire merrO od RRVVN BSc(Hons), Nurse and Practice Managerr,, taketakes up the storyy..

‘When I first heard about the immi- could explain the changes. WWee decided that people have seen it as they pass nent arrivvaal of a branbrand new range my not to have a ‘big bang’ launch but to by and it has sparked inter WWeWest. e first eactionr was excitement, but I was react as the new stock came through. also designed a notice board display also aware of the potential challenges- It was just an approach we felt more positioned next to the rack and on the only the e are w are e the only practice in a tosmall wn comfortable with. w therwindo e is a product notice. I’ve heard that people tend to slow down aff was defi- next to a shop window when they see ough, so I own rtheir eflection, so perhaps this is initial training the reason why this has worked so well But I soon for us! This was an empty space before Undoubtedly the rack has been our hat ther were e – we had never thought of it in terms most useful selling aid but we have also questions that ‘prime rof etail space’ as some shop- the ‘ me frtrused eeeey ’ mechanic for a st didn’t havvee keepers would have, but it has really few clients that have had r vesere ations. e information been successful. WWee r’re looking forward to using our pen o answ Fer -or. torch to explain the benefits of contr -ol unatelyy,, Dan The RRe esultsResults ling plaque bacteria which shows up gave us a lot WWeell, it’s still early days but I am under a special frequency UV light. more technical pleased to report that many clients input and also coming into the practice have tried the TheView View frThe from H illom Hill’ss’ill old us how to new range. WWee hav had a v y posiere posi-y Dan says, “They have done so well at ecommend the tivvee response from clients and not had worhuttleS th because of the strength rand to clients. any real ‘issues’, and we have found it of their relationship with their clients. easier to transition clients to this range, The team successfully explained the Nextt SStepsteps because there are so many benefits to impr voimpr ements and extra benefits and ade the deci- talk about. Our stock control is also their recommendation has been almost keep the Sci- so much easier noww,, as the rangrange is so universally accepted. My experience of hat was already compact. I think H s hav’ill e largely VVeetEssentials is that it is an easy range aintaining the got it right. One minor niggle is that for practices to recommend and easier p g eviously our clients the pack siz isn’e t visible on the front for the clients to accept that r -ecom role of this new range had been a bit obsessed with flavvoours panel but we intend to o erv come that mendation. I am looking forward to clearly and easily? WWee havvee 5 RVRVNS and a few of us werw e concerned about using shelf cards on the rack, which are seeing many more practices celebrate and trainees and it would be my job to the lack of flavour varieties in the new arriving soon. the success of VVeetEssentials.etEss ” train them and persuade them that the VVeetEssentetEssentials range. In reality no one new range was a good thing. has bothered about this and it turned out not to be the big issue that I had Leaping ovoverovveer HurdlesH dlesdlesur been preparing myself to deal with. +*)('&%%&$#"!' ' ' '' Luckilyy,, in our profession you get used to ‘getting on with it’ so my first WWee prepared a written sheet and a '#**' port of call was Dan WWaar our H ’illd, s small leaflet explaining the new range TTeerritory Managerr,, tto see if he could and left thosehose out on displayy.. WWee told offer me any words of reassurance, people that although we could still which he did. F thermorur e, Hthermor ammad order in other products, we believed seemed confident that sales would be this range was different and better than ''(*)''' ' '' maintained and in fact, he felt there other brands. was a big opportunity for growth. Wwth. WWee had been facing increasing competition Another thing we did was to order a ' ' ' ''' ' ' from pet shops in the town and some VVeetEssentialsetEssent rack! I doesn’t t sound like clients had switched to brands they a major step but we had nev had cus-er '' could buy in the localcal supermarrkets tomised racking for Science P – es-lan when they did their w shop.eekly pecially not one that comes on wheels! )'**'#**'' '' It does look professional and I don’t Our clients are mainly professionals, w why wwkno didn’e t do this before. It with some lower income families so makes for a strong focal point and it’s '' ' ' ' despite the fact that the range is quite easy for clients to see evveerything. The simple and easy to understand, I still decision was taken to place it next '' ' had this nagging worry about how we to the window and I am convinced

Foror moremorF more informationinformation contactntact yoyyourour VVeVeterinaryeterinary TTeTerritoryerritory ManagerManager or the Hill’sHill’’ss HHelplineelpline on 0800 282 438/180000 626 002 ((R(ROI)RROOI) 44 THEATRE VETERINARY PRACTICE AUGUST 2010 An actor of the very highest order SADLY, for many the first thought at It is interspersed with excerpts from subscribe to the view about Shakespeare the mention of Simon Callow’s a number of the bard’s works, including expressed by P. G. Wodehouse’s great name is Richard Curtis’ 1994 movie Mark Anthony’s wonderfully ironic character, Bertie Wooster, “...sounds Four Weddings and a Funeral (in my speech in memory of Caesar, Henry V’s fine, doesn’t mean a thing!” In fact, of view one of the most over-rated inspirational call to battle at Agincourt course, Shakespeare’s plays mean as films ever made), overlooking the and a number of others. much now as they ever did and when fact that, in addition to having been Shakespeare... is a beautifully crafted they are put on well they are stunning. in far better movies such as Amadeus piece, both captivating and informative All too often, however, his works and Shakespeare in Love, Callow is a (often a difficult combination to get appear to be treated as venerable stage actor of the very highest order. right). Callow’s performance throughout museum pieces rather than what they In recent years he has given highly- is superlative; one minute he engages really are: phenomenal pieces of theatre acclaimed stage with his audience to that can stir all of the emotions. performances in two describe Shakespeare’s For example, whilst we should Simon Callow. one-man shows: The Dr COLIN ROBERTS life, the next he probably view it in the context of its Mystery of Charles is mightily impressed becomes one of his time, I find the famous 1944 film of proceedings. Dickens (now available by a one-man play characters to deliver Henry V, starring Laurence Olivier, Star Trek has little to do with in DVD format after about William the magical turgid and stylised, but there are Shakespeare, other than quoting a its 2000 television Shakespeare – monologues to numerous modern film versions, couple of his lines as episode or film incarnation) and Dr currently touring the perfection. available on DVD, that whilst adapted titles. I was recently persuaded to watch Marigold and Mr Chops country The play is with varying degrees of freedom are still J. J. Abrams 2009 prequel movie, Star (consisting of two currently on a very sheer delights. Trek, and, as a fundamentalist trekkie Dickens monologues). successful tour around Kenneth Branagh has made a (i.e. one who believes that it was no Now Callow is touring with another England prior to a run throughout number of movies of Shakespeare’s longer Star Trek once Captain Kirk had one man play, Shakespeare – the man from August at the Edinburgh Festival. And works and all are gone), it was with some Stratford, by the well-known Shakespeare there it was to end, but the tour has imaginative, compelling Shakespeare’s misgivings, but I was scholar, Jonathan Bate, of the University been extended giving theatregoers extra productions that feature pleasantly surprised. of Warwick. The play takes for its opportunities to see it in September in superb performances plays: The film begins on structure the famous speech from As London, York, Cardiff, Glasgow and from excellent casts. phenomenal the day of the future You Like It (“All the world’s a stage...”) Bromley, with the possibility of still The same can be pieces of theatre Captain Kirk’s birth concerning the seven ages of man and more dates later. said of Richard that can stir all and charts his rise charts Shakespeare’s life and career Whether you go to see this show Loncraine’s 1995 movie the emotions. towards the helm of using them as guidelines. will depend, I suppose, on whether you of Richard III, based on the Enterprise. a National Theatre Those who, like me, production and starring Sir Ian watch wearing their trekkie anoraks will McKellen as the most chilling Richard note some inconsistencies with the story you will ever see. that we know and love: for instance, When McKellen looks into the what was Chekov doing on the bridge camera and begins, “Now is the winter so soon when he did not enter the of our discontent...”, he grabs your proper story until the second season? attention and doesn’t lose it for a But stay patient and all will be explained moment. by the end of this enjoyable story. Going back a little further, a It is not the original but we shall particular favourite of mine is have no more of that and this re- Zefferelli’s 1968 version of Romeo and imagining has taken up the baton Juliet featuring inspired performances acceptably well so far. from Olivia Hussey as Juliet and Milo Noteworthy performances come O’Shea as Father Lawrence, to name from Simon Pegg as the early Scotty but two. I would suggest, however, that and Karl Urban as the young Dr McCoy you avoid like the plague Baz and Leonard Nimoy is there, too. A Luhrmann’s 1996 version: I had lost the sequel (or is that a second prequel?) is will to live very early on in the expected in 2012. AUGUST 2010 VETERINARY PRACTICE BEHAVIOUR 45 Beware the ‘fair-weather’ feline GOOD gardeners heed weather one is ultimately able to recall the infirm or elderly cats, especially if we forecasts. If they didn’t respond to environmental conditions that gave know they live in busy locations where dire warnings by taking pre- rise to the problem in the first place. stresses, including numerous other emptive action, their tender plants Sadly, however, many owners are felines, already abound. would freeze when temperatures fully aware that their pets “hate” bad Advocating a permanent plummet and wilt when the drying weather. But they still fail to realise “emergency” litter tray is no bad thing sun blazes overhead. ahead of difficulties developing just in any cat-owning household. After all, What has this to do with how unpleasant it is for most cats to the incidence of cystitis tends to companion animal go outside and seek increase when temperatures drop and behaviour? Actually, out a private, we dare not leave home without a when it comes to cat secluded location – raincoat or umbrella. owning, quite a lot! which by definition in Who can blame cats for holding Because if owners most suburban on as long as possible between trips Frustrated cats conﬁned to barracks took a bit more notice gardens involves a outside when they know they will by bad weather may show out of character aggression towards owners of what was significant trek across come back cold, wet and miserable? and other pets – they may even lie in happening outside patio and decking And many, being reluctant to soil their wait for a convenient target upon and acted accordingly, from the back door core area unless suitable facilities are which to relieve their arousal. a significant number or cat flap when the available, will do exactly that. of the problem wind is raging or rain How frustrating and stressful such in a social group almost inevitably behaviours that later FRANCESCA is lashing against the a situation is will obviously depend on ends in emotional eruption, can haunt them could be RICCOMINI house. the temperament and experience of immediately relate to how many cats avoided. How so? calls for more After all, their the individual concerned. But it’s also feel when inclement weather blights attention to be paid original ancestors important for us to bear in mind that their daily round. House soiling to the needs of inhabited the African such high arousal may well have a When prolonged bouts of wind, Remarkably few animals in times of savannah not the knock-on negative effect, which can rain, sleet or snow force everyone to owners seem to bad weather wilds of Siberia so, spill over into other areas of life and stay indoors, even previously provide “emergency” with a few exceptions management. harmonious relations can be strained, indoor latrine facilities, such as the Relationships are inevitably sometimes to breaking point. even though at some stage in their descendants of the hardy forest affected when arousal increases. With lives most cats may be inadvertently dwelling felines, is it really likely that the animals close to us this can have Timely advice can make a shut inside, become ill or too most cats will enjoy traipsing through the effect of lowering the aggression difference frightened by something that’s drizzle, sleet or snow to dig a hole in threshold and introducing the risk of As we know, whatever the situation happening, at home or in the ground that is cold, wet and a cat lashing out at those around him. prevention is better than trying to pick immediate vicinity, to go out to relieve uncomfortable to deal with? They may be human or another pet. up the pieces and restore equilibrium. themselves. Yet few of their people respond Which brings us to the thorny So whenever we have the chance If the stressor is not temporary by getting out the litter and tray, issue of multi-cat households, where to influence our cat-owning clients for but intermittent, encountered on a which is a bit surprising when we strains – frequently unrecognised by the benefit of their charges, we could regular basis or a permanent feature, it consider how grateful our not so owners – not uncommonly simmer undoubtedly make a contribution to is almost certain that an alternative distant relatives were to swap the just below the surface. feline emotional and physical well- toileting site indoors will be outside privy for a nice indoor water Anyone who has spent a being if we drew attention to the established. closet. frustrating, wet childhood afternoon necessity of adequately catering for A whole range of such stressors But it isn’t just in winter that in a seaside caravan or small the “fair weather” felines that dwell can spook cats. A toddler in the difficulties can arise. When drought apartment, where the rising tension amongst us. family, builders next door or weekly hits, soil hardens and compacts, recycling collections, when bottles making excavation of even a modest smash into mechanical crushers, can latrine pit a tough and lengthy Companion animal behaviour and training for instance cause palpitations and a process, especially for the anxious, loss of confidence for resident felines. elderly and feeble among our feline diploma upgraded THE Centre of Applied Pet Ethology (COAPE) reports that its Advanced When nature calls, the resultant population. Diploma in Practical Aspects of Companion Animal Behaviour and Training reluctance they feel to go outside past Is it any wonder that they often (DipCABT) has been upgraded by the course’s independent awarding and the fear-inducing stimulus, whatever it transfer their attention to finding a accreditation body, The Open College Network. is, not uncommonly initiates a suitable latrine site indoors? And this From September 2010 the Diploma will be accredited and recognised at problem that persists for months, or particular risk may well increase if a Level 4, which equates to university study at first year degree level. COAPE possibly years. Inevitably, therefore, no heat wave coincides with school now offers a two-stage diploma education programme: holidays, when the presence of noisy n Stage 1. Advanced Diploma in Practical Aspects of Companion Animal youngsters excitedly vacationing is an Behaviour and Training added disincentive to outdoor A residential course taught over one academic year. Each student must attend excursions. all four weekend teaching modules and complete the written course assignments, workbooks and final practical case study to earn 60 credits at Problems relate to each other Level 4. Over 350 students have successfully graduated from this course since It may seem a bit over the top to 1997. suggest that we should counsel our n Stage 2. COAPE Advanced Diploma (Honours) clients to listen to weather forecasts This new Honours Stage 2 is only available to successful students from Stage on a regular basis to better cater for 1 and provides further opportunity for study and practical career their pets’ sensitivities and avoid development. Students will be required to demonstrate the ability to engage house-soiling problems. in practical companion animal behaviour therapy through approaching Cats that love the sun may be But it is perhaps not unreasonable organised complex case studies and completing a research project. This resistant to going outdoors on cold, that we bear in mind the potential provides a further 60 credits at Level 4. wet days. Failure to cater for them effects of weather when advising For further information see www.coape.org. can cause behaviour problems. novice owners or those of timid, 46 BEHAVIOUR VETERINARY PRACTICE AUGUST 2010 Cognitive changes in the senior dog patient – part 2 EVEN when clients recognise backing up is an option), going to the Tips for helping geriatric pets and feeling is mutual. Recommend owners cognitive or behavioural changes in wrong side (hinge side) of the door to their owners fall into three main spend quality time with their dog – out their ageing pets they rarely mention go outside, getting lost in familiar categories: 1. general considerations; 2. on walks, playing games or helping him them to the veterinarian during locations, or wandering aimlessly. cognitive enrichment; and 3. nutritional with obedience training will greatly routine visits. Many see the changes n Are there changes in the way the pet support. enhance his quality of life and mental as part of the inevitable ageing interacts with family members or pets? wellbeing. process. e.g. a reduction in the amount of petting 1. General considerations (iii) Social interaction with other dogs If not asked specifically about the or contact sought from owners, less Identify all concurrent medical Dogs are by nature social pack animals. changes, most owners won’t offer the enthusiastic or no greeting when owner problems and treat them, adjusting drug Even if there are no other dogs in the information. For this reason it is returns home, no longer comes when doses to take into account any household it is vital that dogs meet with important to get a good history that called, spending more time alone concurrent diseases. other canines in a non-stressful way on includes detailed questions about (aloof), in need of constant contact n Make sure that owners have realistic a daily basis. cognitive or behavioural problems in (over dependent or clingy), doesn’t expectations of their pets’ abilities (i.e. (iv) Visual stimulation addition to the medical problems. enjoy being petted, alterations or don’t make an arthritic dog go down a In order to keep the brain active it is Behavioural problems with social flight of stairs to reach its elimination essential for it to receive a certain level problems do not exist hierarchy with other area). of stimulation. Visual stimulation is vital in a vacuum. Medical Dr JILL CLINE pets. n Bear in mind that behaviour to a dog’s mental wellbeing. If possible problems frequently of Nestlé Purina n Are there changes in modification programmes may take dogs should be able to watch activity manifest themselves as Petcare, continues her the pet’s sleep longer to teach a dog that has cognitive out of a window, either the road and behavioural changes. review of how patterns? e.g. sleeping impairment. people outside or cats and birds in the This is especially true veterinarians can more than usual, n Make sure the pet’s local environment garden. If this is not possible, for neurological detect cognitive change in sleep-wake is safe. recommend leaving the TV on if problems and in senior changes and help pets cycle, showing n Minimise stress for the dog by owners are going out for an extended animals. Take loss of and owners increased waking hours keeping to established schedules. period. house-training, for at night. n If the dog can tolerate exercise, (v) Variety – minimise boredom instance: house soiling n Are there changes in increase physical activity (increased Boredom is the enemy of mental health. can occur for a variety of medical activity levels? e.g. increased or repetitive activity helps the brain). Dogs should be given an ongoing and reasons as well as behavioural ones: activity (including: staring, fixation or n Alter the environment to decrease rotating supply of novel objects to play n Geriatric dogs are often less sensitive snapping at objects, licking humans or triggers (e.g. keep away from visitors if with and explore to keep their minds to thirst and drink less water. This can inanimate objects, increased appetite or dog easily startled). active and thereby improve their quality cause constipation and lead to faecal interest in food, unexplained increase in n If there are house training issues, of life. house soiling. activity, purposeless activity like pacing, provide more frequent outdoor access. n Pathology associated with the urinary wandering, repetitive barking); or Suggest training to incontinence pads, 3. Nutritional support system may cause polyuria which may decreased activity (including: loss of giving him a place to eliminate in the There are four nutritional areas which result in urinary house soiling. interest in previously loved toys, no house and have the owner re-do may help prevent cognitive decline in n House soiling may also have its roots desire to go for walks, inability to housetraining, accompanying the dog ageing dogs and may possibly help those in the decline of the endocrine system, perform previously known tricks, outside and reinforcing desired already experiencing mild cognitive causing polyuria and polydipsia. reduced appetite or interest in food), behaviour changes. These include: caloric n House soiling can even occur as a n Are there changes in housetraining n Consider medication for canine restriction to help slow the rate of result of something as common as habits? e.g. lack of signalling to go cognitive dysfunction (e.g. selegiline cognitive decline; antioxidants to reduce arthritis leading to lack of ability to go outdoors, eliminating indoors even hydrochloride). free radical production; fatty acids to outside for elimination. though just been outdoors, eliminating help manage inflammatory reactions; The decline in an animal’s vision, indoors randomly or in front of owner, 2. Cognitive enrichment and medium chain triglycerides to hearing or sense of smell may result in eliminating in sleeping area, Veterinary surgeons are generally enhance mental alertness and memory many behavioural changes such as: incontinence. excellent at educating dog owners about by providing an alternative and available increased sleeping (dog does not hear n Is there any evidence of increased physical health but often forget to energy source to brain neurons. noises); increased aggression (dog does anxiety? e.g. restlessness and irritability, discuss the pet’s mental health and Veterinarians should recommend a not hear, smell or see approaching separation anxiety, destructive wellbeing. It is well recognised in diet which contains nutritional people or animal so is startled); behaviour. humans that if we don’t keep our brain components proven to help dogs with increased anxiety (dog is unable to n Are there any changes in work or active its function declines and the same cognitive dysfunction. adequately assess its environment). learning tasks? e.g. reduced recognition is true of our dogs. Many older dogs are In summary, varying degrees of It is clear, therefore, that it is of familiar people or pets, decreased known as couch potatoes: this may be cognitive decline are common in many impossible to make a diagnosis of responsiveness to known commands or because they are not physically able to aged dogs, the most common changes cognitive dysfunction without first tricks, reduced ability to perform tasks, move but often it is because they are observed being memory loss and a performing a comprehensive medical slow to learn new tasks. simply bored and not stimulated. reduction in learning ability. It is vital to work-up. Playing mental games with senior ask owners of senior dogs specific Since the clinical signs are non- How can veterinarians help dogs is just as important as playing questions about their dog’s behaviour as specific and clients tend to expect some geriatric pets and their owners? physical games. Recommend a five-fold most owners rarely mention “old age” cognitive decline in older animals, it is When considering how to help geriatric plan for mental wellness to help keep behavioural changes to the veterinarian helpful to have special history forms for pets and their owners, clear veterinary ageing dogs stimulated and mentally during routine visits. geriatric patients that specifically ask advice is invaluable. Even when senior active: This is because owners often see about the presence or absence of these dogs are showing some level of (i) Brain training/ mental stimulation these changes as part of the inevitable symptoms. In addition to facilitating a cognitive decline, it really is never too Brain training toys; hide and seek games; ageing process and also many do not diagnosis, a form can prove helpful in late to teach old dogs new tricks! In fact exploring games – during walks, in the believe that anything can be done to tracking response to therapy or disease cognitive enrichment is vital throughout garden or even around the house, rather help with this decline. Veterinary advice progression. a dog’s whole life. There is evidence to than just handing him his favourite is therefore invaluable to educate Some questions to address include: suggest that cognitive enrichment early treats, hide them around the house for owners about what can be done to help, n Is the pet disorientated in the home in life appears to protect against him to explore and find. particularly in the areas of cognitive or garden? e.g. getting stuck behind development of age-associated cognitive (ii) Social companionship with humans enrichment (mental wellness) and furniture or in corners (unaware that decline and dementia. Dogs are man’s best friend – and the nutritional support. AUGUST 2010 VETERINARY PRACTICE CONSERVATION 47

Protection purpose. Wading birds head The other evening I noticed the It illustrates well the difficulties neighbour going into the field with a posed to ground-nesting birds by tractor and disc harrow affair to hoe the modern farming practices and inland to forage on weeds between the rows of turnips. I equipment when people are pushed went over and explained about the nest for time and do not have the same and marked it with a blue electric fence attachment to the land as when they farmers’ fields pole stuck in the ground about six feet worked with a horse and plough. MANY animals and birds are equivalent of their natural food. away. The incubating bird left the nest I have spoken to several older extremely adaptable and I guess that as soon as I approached and I took a members of our community who can adaptability is the driving force Secure few photos of the two eggs that she remember taking a horse-drawn plough behind evolution. Sometimes it They lay their eggs anywhere they feel was sitting on. round a curlew or corncrake nest or happens very quickly and at others secure: a couple of years ago there was I was very pleased to see the next even lifting the eggs to the side and then over a much more protracted period one sitting on a nest on the roundabout morning that the turnips were hoed replacing them after the plough had of time. Organisms that can’t adapt of a motorway slip road not far from and the bird was back on its nest and passed. to a changing environment have only us, and the local school had another pair that the blue pole had served its Changed days indeed. one recourse: extinction. nesting on the pebble strewn flat roof Oystercatchers are wading birds that of one of its classrooms. are essentially adapted to live at the Finding the nest of an oystercatcher coast, foraging for invertebrates such as is not that easy but this year we hit the ragworms by probing jackpot. The next door the sand below the farmer ploughed a two- high-tide mark with A Veterinary Practice acre field next to our their relatively long and correspondent drive and planted powerful bills. They are discusses some of the turnips to feed his further adapted to the modern dangers facing lambs on in the sea shore in that they ground-nesting birds autumn. lay their eggs on the A ploughed field is ground in nothing more a pretty good substitute than a shallow scrape in the sand or for a beach and it wasn’t long before I shingle that serves as a nest. noticed that a pair of oystercatchers Now, though, many oystercatchers seemed to spend an awful lot of time have abandoned the seashore for the here. Eventually I could see that one of summer to move further inland to them was “sitting” just on top of one of breed. I live 35 miles from the sea yet the furrows and was rarely away. each summer several pairs of There are various dangers for The benefi ts of our easy break oystercatchers take up residence in the ground-nesting birds including ® surrounding farmers’ fields and treat us predatory mammals and birds which Forthyron tablets are shelf evident. to their wailing calls each morning and threaten both the incubating bird and, evening. Plus their alarm calls whenever of course, the eggs. Many birds are You only need to stock two pack sizes for a complete and accurate dosing potential predators such as crows or therefore highly camouflaged, things like treatment for hypothyroidism. Our new Forthyron easy break tablets ensures magpies appear throughout the day. snipe and curlew, pheasants and simple breakability into 4 equal parts, the benefi ts are shelf explanatory. Inland they forage mainly on partridges, but oystercatchers are pastureland, here using their bills to strikingly black and white. For more information and details of any current offers 01223 257933 probe for earthworms, the terrestrial Perhaps that is why pheasants and the like will sit very tight when approached whereas I noticed that the oystercatcher would slip off its nest very early on if the farmer entered the field and scuttle away, calling, as though to Forthyron 200 microgram tablet Levothyroxine sodium – Composition: Active substance per tablet: Levothyroxine sodium 200 μg. Indications: For treatment of hypothyroidism in draw attention away from the nest. dogs. Dosage and administration: For oral administration. Read the package leafl et before use. Storage conditions: Do not store above 25˚C. For animal treatment only. To be supplied only on veterinary prescription. Keep out of the reach and sight of children. Forthyron 400 microgram tablet Levothyroxine sodium – Composition: Active substance per tablet: Levothyroxine Since the eggs themselves are fairly well sodium 400 μg. 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MEDICAL REFRIGERATION 48 ANAESTHESIA VETERINARY PRACTICE AUGUST 2010 Monitoring blood pressure OPHTHALMOLOGISTS are very vasoconstriction from high dose rates doppler might convincing people. All you have to can severely limit oxygen delivery. We all actually provide do is to show a slide of a cat which know that local anaesthetic with more information has gone blind due to hypertensive adrenaline can give white hair where it than an arterial line. retinopathy and a queue will form at has been injected under the skin: this is Although a decent the stand in the foyer to purchase a vasoconstriction-induced effect. sized catheter in a some form of blood pressure A doppler ultrasound system gives large artery will measuring device. two separate pieces of related undoubtedly be the Once purchased, and the initial information: a modest underestimate of gold standard for enthusiasm has worn systolic blood pressure pressure monitoring, off, the machine will and an impression of an arterial line still begin to gather dust in flow. The flow cannot says nothing about a cupboard, its exact be quantified but is the flow, the A doppler ultrasound probe over a location lost with the extremely useful. detection of which is intrinsic to using a peripheral artery acts as flow slow but inexorable If you are in the doppler system. I like doppler monitor and provides an estimate of systolic pressure. turnover of staff, to be middle of a ultrasound machines. eventually forgotten problematic bitch spay using you will again get a very elevated about completely. and suspect that The cuff false estimate. The artery is in the step This is a pity. something is bleeding So how do you get the most out of where the cuff overlaps itself so does Setting aside any health deep in the abdomen, your doppler? Choosing the correct not compress correctly. and safety issues raised PETER you can certainly track sized cuff helps a lot. All of these quirks apply equally to by disturbing the dust DOBROMYLSKYJ blood pressure as a The length of the cuff doesn’t computerised oscillotonometer systems layer, blood pressure is discusses the marker of how badly matter so long as the inflatable section as they do to the doppler system, so a useful piece of usefulness of blood your patient might be is longer than the circumference of the they’re worth considering if you get information to anyone pressure when giving a bleeding. But unless artery. Even this is arguable, but it’s a strange blood pressure readings with giving a general general anaesthetic you have been using good rule of thumb. either. anaesthetic. the maximum data The width of the cuff does matter. If you have a convincing reading Most of us give sheet dose rate of A very wide cuff underestimates within physiologically acceptable limits more general anaesthetics acepromazine, your patient pressure, a narrow cuff overestimates it. you know that your patient, however than we see hypertensive cats, not that should have an intact sympathetic A width of about half the much isoflurane you are having to give, we shouldn’t be screening for nervous system. circumference of the leg is ideal, is not about to die of overdose. This is, retinopathy routinely using a quick scan As blood volume falls, sympathetic anywhere between 40% and 60% is on occasions, very comforting with the ophthalmoscope during every nervous system activity increases to acceptable. They are frequently pre information. flea consultation. maintain an adequate pressure. The marked. The other beauty of blood Because anaesthetists deal in body guards this pressure at the cost of Positioning the cuff at heart level pressure monitoring, in addition to information I have a preference for reduced oxygen delivery due to helps. If the dog is big, on its back with guiding anaesthesia decisions, is that manual doppler ultrasound estimation vasoconstriction. its legs in the air, the cuff might be well there is often no financial outlay of systolic blood pressure over above the heart and might under read, involved, it’s just a matter of dusting automated devices. Excellent numbers 20cm above the heart reduces the off equipment which is not currently An automated oscillotonometer is An automated blood pressure device reading by 14mmHg. earning its keep. very quick and easy to set up and they will give excellent numbers, even Hanging the leg off give accurate readings when they work. showing some increase in systolic and the edge of the The problem is that it just gives you two diastolic pressures, as the patient steadily operating table does the numbers: systolic and diastolic pressure. bleeds out. It’s only when there is opposite. This is There is no information about flow. inadequate blood volume left to perfuse probably relevant at the Flow matters, as this is what actually the myocardium that there is a quite extremes of what you delivers oxygen to the tissues. sudden and catastrophic fall in blood might consider Adrenaline is excellent at increasing pressure, and usually heart rate too. acceptable values. blood pressure but the intense Resuscitation is still possible at this stage Having the cuff too but it’s not easy. loose puts a curve into Petro (Peter) Dobromylskyj, BVetMed, The first warning from an the surface which comes BSc, DVA, MRCVS, qualified from the automated device might be an into contact with the RVC in 1981. Later he studied to become a veterinary anaesthetist, unanticipated failure to get a reading. patient, so makes it mostly working on acute pain control. A doppler system would also follow behave as if it was too That led to the Certificate, then that same trend upward in blood narrow, increasing the Diploma, in Veterinary Anaesthesia. pressure but the arterial flow would reading. become progressively Having force- harder to hear as blood extended tendons under loss continued. Struggling the cuff will protect the to get audible flow artery from applied cuff through a doppler pressure and markedly, ultrasound machine and artificially, increase should always alert you to your reading. the possibility that Some cuffs, something is markedly especially the small latex wrong on a circulation ones for kittens, have an basis, especially if flow in abrupt end. If you that same artery was easy happen to position the to find 30 minutes ago. end of the cuff just It’s arguable that a over the artery you are NEW &NOW IMPROVED!

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UKALPHA-055 January 2010 ©2010 Abbott Laboratories 1Data available on request. 50 FORENSICS VETERINARY PRACTICE AUGUST 2010 Modern detective work to bring offenders to justice HERCULE Poirot would certainly at the University of Chester in late monopoly. Although it was not have spotted the clue and even June. The meeting gave the attending possible to take the case to court, such Inspector Clouseau might have veterinarians, police officers, animal investigations are still useful. They will stood a chance. But it was a British welfarists and conservationists an help to discourage the trade as detective, Andy McWilliam, who opportunity to discuss the applications importers know there is strict liability had the job of examining the for forensic science in the investigation for companies involved in importing evidence to find out whether or not and prosecution of wildlife crime. illegal goods and so they cannot plead a crime had been committed. Mistakes in the documentation ignorance if the true source is a That crime was the taking of eggs used by criminals in attempts to cover protected species, he said. from the nest of a wild bird, an their tracks are not unusual. McWilliam In other cases, the investigation is offence since the noted a case where conducted much closer to home. Mr Protection of Birds Act another egg collector Hunter described the case of David was passed in 1954. The had forged a record Neville Johnson, a 21-year-old from Laura Watson, a lecturer in forensic owner of the egg card, stating that the Telford jailed for eight months for science at Staffordshire University, collection that egg was taken pre- illegally trading in two endangered carries out a post-mortem McWilliam was 1954 in the West chelonian species, the Hermann’s and examination on a grey squirrel investigating insisted reports on a meeting Midlands, an spur-thighed tortoises (Testudo hermanni carcase. that the eggs were called to discuss the administrative region and T. graeca). legally taken before the applications for that was only photographs of rare and valuable Second World War as forensic science in the established in 1972. ‘In it for the money’ animals, noting that the markings on indicated by the investigation and But in many cases The investigation was carried out by the plastron (undershell) of a tortoise information on the prosecution of wildlife the evidence has to the local Shropshire constabulary, the are as individual as a fingerprint. accompanying index crime. be passed on to UK Borders Agency and the NWCU Veterinary surgeons may also have cards. laboratory-based and focused on the use of false a role in investigating wildlife crime, There was, however, colleagues. documents to obtain permits to sell particularly in relation to crimes one detail that the sharp-eyed They are able to carry out tests like the tortoises as captive-bred. Johnson involving welfare abuses of native policeman noticed and could point out the carbon-14 analysis used to refute made an estimated £30,000 from species, such as badger baiting. both to the egg collector and the an ivory dealer’s claim that she was selling the tortoises and he told Professor Dick Shepherd, a Home presiding magistrate when the case only handling 19th century items, investigators “Conservation is no Office-accredited pathologist and a came to court. Yes, the index cards created before the 1975 CITES treaty concern of mine – I am in it for the consultant at St George’s Hospital, were genuinely old but the lettering on which seeks to prevent the money,” Hunter recalled at the London, offered some advice to the both the cards and the corresponding international trade in endangered meeting. tyro veterinary forensic investigator. eggs had been written with a felt tip species and their products. There are equally large sums to be pen, technology that wasn’t invented Nevin Hunter is another former made from many of the products Great care needed until the 1960s. police officer and head of compliance traded in defiance of the CITES The first and most important lesson is with DEFRA’s wildlife licensing and regulations, such as the rhinoceros the need to treat any crime scene with More challenging registration department, which has horn and tiger carcases used in great care to avoid damaging crucial McWilliam and his colleagues in the responsibility for administering the traditional Chinese medicines. evidence or misdirecting the National Wildlife Crime Unit will have CITES regulations. In some cases, the live animal is a investigation. Just as in most clinical many more challenging cases to This is a small unit with only eight valuable commodity and criminals will cases the diagnosis can be gained from investigate and he explained how he members of staff and so it is forced to go to extreme lengths to obtain them, the history alone, then so will the would go about them at a conference concentrate on a few key priorities. explained John Hayward, an animal crime scene provide most of the One of these was in controlling the theft investigator with the Federation evidence needed for a forensic international trade in caviar, harvested of Zoos. Break-ins at zoological investigation, with lab-based pathology from various species of sturgeon, collections have become increasingly needed only for confirmation, he said. some highly endangered. common over the past few years with When working in the field, it is A biscuit tin-sized consignment of parrots, chelonians the famous delicacy is worth around and small monkeys £20,000 and so there is a lot of money the usual targets. to be made in repackaging the Members of imported product into smaller those species in volumes. private hands may also be at risk and DNA analysis Mr Hayward Mr Hunter described one recent case suggested that in which DNA analysis of the caviar veterinary surgeons showed that it did not come from the should encourage starry sturgeon Acipenser stellatus, as their clients to have indicated on the import documents, their animals but the much rarer ship sturgeon A. microchipped to nudiventris, a “non-quota species” improve the chances which cannot be traded at all. that the pets can be Veterinary pathologist Professor Hunter’s team followed the paper traced and returned. John Cooper explains how to handle trail through Belgium and Turkey and He also noted physical evidence in one of the found that it appeared to end at the the importance of Barnsley practitioner Simon Newbery prepares the plate practical sessions at the meeting. doors of the Kazakhstan state keeping for a gel electrophoresis analysis of DNA samples. AUGUST 2010 VETERINARY PRACTICE FORENSICS 51 vital to keep clear, legible and investigations of wildlife crimes. unsatisfactory that many magistrates complete notes. Written notes are While DNA analysis is an or judges neglect to award costs to Flight division ready preferable to a sound recording as it is undoubtedly powerful tool, there is the prosecution at the conclusion of for take-off much easier to find and refer to the much that can be done with a successful investigation, Mr Hunter ANIMAL Airways reports that it key points when called into the witness traditional technologies such as light said. has set up an international flight box. microscopy, he said. The “polluter pays principle” veterinarian division operating Photographs of the scene are also Accurate identification of the should be applied in the case of round-the-clock worldwide “in order extremely useful; it is important to species involved is a prerequisite for wildlife crimes just as firmly as it is in to ensure pets’ safety and well-being have a scale alongside the key items any zoological investigation and he other environmental issues, such as throughout the flight process”. and it is better to have the original lamented both the erosion in prosecutions resulting from leakages The division will focus on the image rather than one tidied up with taxonomical knowledge within the of dangerous industrial chemicals. necessity for pet owners to have an image manipulation British university professional veterinarian guidance program, like The inexperience system and the Encouraging signs on a global level, the firm states. Photoshop. of prosecution dispersal of many key The inexperience of prosecution Dr Eytan Kreiner, the head solicitors and the collections of solicitors and the judiciary in dealing veterinarian, says that the veterinary Never guess... reference samples due with environmental cases was another support team “includes flight Prof. Shepherd said it judiciary in to funding problems serious problem for those attempting dealing with veterinarians from all continents, was vital that in natural history to fight wildlife crime, he continued. speaking more than 10 languages, veterinary surgeons environmental museums around the If these people have no available at all times for every and any other cases is a serious world. understanding of the significance of matter, and able to provide medical witnesses of fact problem for those such crimes it is easy to dismiss the solutions needed globally”. stayed within their area High costs offences as trivial, he said. Pet owners will receive all of expertise when attempting to Economic issues also However, there have been some fight wildlife necessary information regarding the under cross- affect the work of the encouraging signs that the court final destination, including veterinary examination. “You crime... national network of system is prepared to treat wildlife clinics in new destinations and should never, ever 77 registered wildlife crimes more seriously. general tips for maintaining pets’ guess,” he said. When there was any inspectors engaged in tackling There is now a single prosecutor well-being in new environments. uncertainty, it was perfectly wildlife crimes. The cost of a single with responsibility for all wildlife Animal Airways is seeking new acceptable to admit to not knowing DNA test to establish the parentage cases in Scotland and the Magistrates partnerships and affiliates with the answer and to insist on the need of an animal (circa £1,500) or Association has produced an updated established veterinary institutes, for more information, he said. developing a test for species-specific version of a publication Costing the leading airlines, relocation Professor John Cooper, a genetic markers for a rare raptor Earth giving advice on the companies and ground handlers, etc. recognised specialist in zoological (about £9,000) would make a big hole significance of environmental crimes For details see medicine at the University of in his department’s meagre £100,000 and offering directions on sentencing www.animalairways.com. Cambridge, also offered tips on field annual budget. So it was in such cases, Mr Hunter said. ‘Exciting challenge’ of move to NEC

THE Royal Association of British professionalism on behalf of the UK Farm Health Planning (FHP) will be Dairy Farmers is staging this year’s livestock sector; it reflects the event as returning to the event for the third Dairy Event and Livestock Show at a up to date and progressive, in particular consecutive year, featuring presentations new venue, Birmingham’s NEC, on to retailers and processors, international offering technical information provided Tuesday 7th and Wednesday 8th visitors, the next generation and recruits by some of the UK’s leading specialist September. to the industry.” vets and advisers on proactive herd More than 14,500 visitors are RABDF’s decision to relocate the measures designed to help farmers expected from the UK and beyond, and event to the NEC provides the manage disease and improve their of the 450 trade exhibitors that have opportunity to increase exhibitor livestock’s overall performance. booked stand space over 20% have numbers which have risen 62% since Key issues coming under the taken additional space compared with 2003 and to expand its 2009 attendance microscope are: biosecurity, with a the industry and want to help your previous years. which was up by 12% on the year, with special presentation from the CVO for clients make better informed decisions, “Relocating the UK’s largest gate prices fixed at 2009 rates. Wales, Dr Christianne Glossop; then the Dairy Event and Livestock specialist event to the NEC is proving “The much improved access to the mobility; anthelmintic resistance; Show will offer many solutions all in to be an exciting challenge,” says venue via rail and air, as well as road, fertility; rearing youngstock; and one location and on one day,” he adds. RABDF chief executive, Nick will for example enable farmers to make profitable disease control. n For further information about the Everington. “In the first instance the a return day trip to the event from “The event is a must attend for vets, show, ticket offers and group travel move is enabling us to continue to build throughout England and Wales as well not only to attend the FHP arrangements, call 0845 4582711 or see on the event in its current format, as further afield. The airport’s proximity presentations, but also to investigate the www.dairyevent.co.uk. offering comprehensive also introduces real latest developments that impact on their technical, business and advantages for clients’ businesses including the latest financial information for international delegates,” equipment for milking and handling the entire UK ruminant says Mr Everington. livestock, together with dairy hygiene sector, and also provide All trade exhibitors and veterinary products from all the a one-stop shop for from across the supply leading animal health companies,” says dairy , beef, sheep and chain will be under one Mr Everington. goat farmers. roof and located in “Farmers can bring along samples “Furthermore, the interlinked exhibition for free analysis to the soil surgery, while new venue, with its halls. A second the mixer wagon demonstrations and larger, modern and easily structure, the Livestock new Feed Science Forums are designed accessed facilities, is Hall, covering more than to help farmers and vets make more destined to make a two acres will informed decisions on feeding rations. A foot-trimming demonstration at serious statement of Nick Everington. accommodate livestock. “If you are a vet already involved in last year’s show. 52 LIVESTOCK VETERINARY PRACTICE AUGUST 2010 Coccidiosis: its commonalities and differences gastrointestinal tract, a across livestock species process that is key for host COCCIDIOSIS is an insidious coccidiosis in calves at between three recognition and immunity to enteric disease, with diarrhoea the and 12 weeks of age, depending on the develop. most obvious clinical symptom. It is specific rearing practices on the farm Treating animals with the most common cause of pre- and when calves first enter a high-risk a coccidiocide once a weaning scour in piglets, and one of area for oocysts. Since the timing of a clinical outbreak of the most common enteric diseases coccidiosis outbreak will vary from the disease has affecting lambs and calves. farm to farm, so will the timing of any occurred will stop In all species, coccidial infection – preventive action taken. further both at sub-clinical and clinical levels – In piglets, the pre-patent period is reproduction of will compromise only 5-7 days, so coccidia and digestive efficiency and outbreaks of clinical damage to the gut; live weight gains, and coccidiosis (onset of however, future make animals more diarrhoea) typically performance will have susceptible to occur at 8-15 days of been compromised. So secondary infections. age (see Table 1). the best strategy is to So to ensure the future adopt a preventive approach with disease challenge. For example, ensure performance potential Reducing spread of metaphylactic treatment, i.e. before the clean bedding and water troughs, lower of the animal is infection onset of clinical signs but after stocking densities. achieved, the best In all species, damage exposure to the challenge. Farmers who have witnessed strategy is to adopt a DR ABDÜLKERIM to the animal’s gut So the animal needs to have ingested clinical outbreaks of coccidiosis are preventive approach to DENIZ occurs when some oocysts and for the reproductive more likely to adopt a preventive the disease, to reviews the problem sporulated oocysts are cycle to have started. This means the strategy. The bigger challenge for the safeguard health and in piglets, lambs ingested and then actual timing of dosing, with any veterinary professional is to motivate consequent long-term and calves release sporozoites coccidiocide, is essential for success. pre-emptive action on farms where the performance. which enter intestinal Treating coccidia-naïve animals with a disease is present at sub-clinical levels. Protozoa are the cells and multiply coccidiocide will not have any benefit. However, with today’s economic causative agents of rapidly through a To determine the optimal treatment pressures, the typically more intensive coccidiosis: Eimeria spp. are the culprits number of stages. Each causes damage time, review the disease history on the rearing practices, and constant time- in calves, lambs and poultry; and there to the intestinal mucosa, resulting in a unit. For example, in calves, a single pressures on stockmen, vets should are many different species: all are host- loss of functional epithelial tissue. oral dose should be given discuss with their clients how financial specific, but not all are pathogenic. After the pre-patent period, oocysts approximately one week before the benefits can still be made by preventing In piglets, Isospora suis is responsible rupture from the intestinal cells and are expected onset of clinical symptoms. sub-clinical levels of coccidial for coccidiosis and hence the term passed back into the environment in Typically, this is around 14 days after infection, to safeguard animal health isosporosis is also sometimes used. the animal’s faeces. they enter a high-risk environment, but and boost performance levels. And Coccidial infections arise when A single oocyst can multiply will vary from unit to unit. that’s relevant across all livestock sporulated oocysts of Eimeria or dramatically in number: in calves up to Similarly with lambs, specific species. Isospora are ingested and go on to 24 million oocysts can be produced in management practices will affect cause significant damage to intestinal three weeks from one oocyst, and in optimal treatment timing. In piglets, cell walls as they reproduce through the lambs up to 16 million can be where early management practices are different life-cycle stages (see Figure produced in two weeks. When these very similar and there is a short pre- 1). are shed into the environment, all in- patent period, then preventive The age at which a young animal is contact animals are at risk of infection. treatment with a single dose of Baycox likely to suffer coccidial infection Since oocysts are also extremely 50mg/ml can be routinely carried out depends on when it first encounters resistant, surviving from year to year, at day 3 to 5 of age. coccidial oocysts in the environment they will remain in the environment, on and the level of the burden ingested. It grassland and in sheds, to re-infect An integrated approach Even at sub-clinical levels, coccidial is important to also consider the pre- future generations of livestock. Disease In addition to chemotherapy, infections can impair growth rates patent period of the protozoan species, transmission occurs mainly through the coccidiosis control requires attention to and prevent animals achieving their i.e. the time for completion of one faecal-oral route from contaminated hygiene and management to reduce the full potential. lifecycle – from ingestion of an oocyst bedding, pastures, feed or water to shedding further oocysts. troughs. Table 1. Most common causative/pathogenic agents of coccidiosis for different For example, in housed cattle, E. So key to reducing the disease livestock in the UK. bovis and E. zuernii often cause challenge is to stop oocyst excretion Host Coccidia Pathomorphological changes Prepatent Typical age and break the cycle of infection. This period (days) of infection Small intestines Large intestines Abdülkerim Deniz graduated from the can be achieved effectively using the Veterinary Faculty in Istanbul, Turkey, coccidiocide toltrazuril (Baycox Pig I. suis Necrotising enteritis, - 5-7 8-15 days in 1991 and completed a doctorate 50mg/ml) which destroys Eimeria and villous atrophy and villous fusion thesis at the Veterinary School of Isospora at all stages during their Hannover in Germany in 1995. Before intracellular development, including Cattle E. bovis - Haemorrhagic 17-22 3-12 weeks joining Bayer HealthCare Animal typhlitis and colitis Health in Turkey as a technical asexual multiplication and sexual E. zuernii Catarrhal- 15-19 services and regulatory affairs reproduction. - This prevents oocysts from being haemorrhagic manager in 2001, he spent two years typhlitis and colitis at a local veterinary pharmaceutical produced, and stops the damage to the company as a technical product intestinal cells. However, since the Sheep E. crandallis - Catarrhal enteritis 12-15 4-8 weeks and focal epithelial manager. He has held his current extracellular sporozoites and desquamation position in Bayer Animal Health as merozoites are not killed, these stages global veterinary services manager for of Eimeria and Isospora can still attach E. ovinoidalis - Haemorrhagic 15-20 typhlitis and colitis Baycox since 2007. to the mucosal cells that line the 3 species...species...... 1... 1 treatment

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Baycox® 50 mg/ml for Piglets, Calves and Lambs contains toltrazuril 5%. ® Registeredstered TrTrademark of Bayer AG. Please refer to appropriate data sheet, further information available on request. Bayer plc, Animal Health Division, Bayer House, Strawberryrry Hill, Newburyy,, Berkshire RG14 1JA.TTeel: 01635 563000. POM-M--VV BACM/1/11.09/Zone 54 LIVESTOCK VETERINARY PRACTICE AUGUST 2010 Infectious disease: diagnostic dilemmas and strategies for control OPENING the latest meeting of the vet of the difficulties being created to study presented by Dr Richard Booth likely to be achievable. Attention to British Cattle Veterinary Association sort out a good outcome. (RVC) to range from 0.3% to 3%, the biosecurity has advantages for health at Bromsgrove, with a line-up of It was pointed out that “there is no highest being on non-vaccinated farms. and productivity in general and speakers to deliver a real depth of such thing as a perfect test” and Richard was congratulated on having his incoming stock should be quarantined knowledge, Keith Cutler, the sampling results have to be part of a doctorate confirmed the evening before and tested with paired serology. president, introduced an element of bigger picture. Predictive values can be the meeting. concern. increased by using more than one type Losses from BVD are associated Controlling BVD There have been a number of of test, targeting sampling for greater with reproductive disorders, PI animals Frank Stephen (DS McGregor & seminars and meetings involving the disease prevalence and using a test with and other disease occurring Partners, Thurso) gave a presentation BCVA, arranged by a higher selectivity. simultaneously with BVD virus that full of practical details about the control various organisations It may pay the suppresses the immune system. The benefits and problems of introduction with strong links to farmer to take a national losses promoted are not seen of BVD control in the 20,000 beef cattle production, carcase to a VI centre by farmers as relevant to their herd. cows of Caithness. where the perception rather than have post Cost calculators of potential loss are not Many of the farms have rented is that vets are not mortem samples taken impacting on herd owners and there is a grazing and the practice has developed engaging with BVD on the farm. If a field need for a different approach to its own strategy for local conditions. and Johne’s disease. post mortem is motivation. With a known infected herd, all adult Farmer groups are required, screen for the Poor youngstock health should ring breeding stock are tested, with low dissatisfied with the obvious. In discussion, alarm bells, particularly respiratory and antibody or negative antibody also lack of progress and practitioners enteric disease. If these observations are tested for antigen. All PIs are culled. veterinary practices RICHARD GARD highlighted the combined with reproductive disease, Replacement breeding stock are tested need to consider their reports on the BCVA’s difficulties with taking then BVD is a high cause for concern. before going to the bull and the herd is own involvement with recent meeting where tissue and other Infection within the first 110 days of vaccinated. Youngstock are not tested disease in clients’ BVD and Johne’s samples of the correct gestation leads to the cow and the calf because of the cost and interpretation herds. disease were high on volume, in the correct becoming infected. The dam becomes of the findings. There is a fear that Mr Cutler stated the agenda containers, without immune but the calf is born persistently positives would be sold on. that “veterinary contamination. infected. For a herd of unknown status, 10 surgeons cannot make The danger is to introduce a youngstock are tested. If antibody money from sick cows”. There has to Seven schemes pregnant cow or heifer that tests negative, assume that the herd is free of be an emphasis on health and the There are seven schemes that are negative. Persistently infected calves that BVD and try and get the farmer to speakers were tasked with giving licensed within the Cattle Health are challenged with BVDV suffer fatal vaccinate because of the potential for delegates positive and accurate Certification Standards (CHeCS) and mucosal disease. The bull should always disease in naive animals. If there are information that will allow recognisable several others that are in discussion be tested. antibody positives, test adults and cull results with disease control. about equivalence. David Graham PIs. (Agri-Food & Biosciences Institute, Bulk milk tank tests Case studies showed successes Taking samples Belfast) discussed the assessment of There is a danger in over-interpreting towards BVD eradication but the vet Guda van Burgt (VLA) admitted that herd health status with disease control bulk milk tank tests as the result needs to be alert to farmer attempts to the title of her presentation, The technical and eradication strategies. The CHeCS indicates what went on a few weeks ago, frustrate control. Case examples are the aspects of testing, what tests are available, initiative was established and is owned as historical infection yields high introduction of disease from a new bull, when to use what tests and how to interpret the by the cattle industry and regulates the antibodies. Quarterly milk sampling is possibly infected by intermixing in results, was a “dry subject” but she then UK schemes. advised for monitoring herds. Antibody transit, and a pedigree cow sent to carried the group by her enthusiasm. Because of the complications of the ELISA indicates exposure to disease but another farm to be served. At the heart of any sampling was an various tests and their interpretation it is PIs show as antibody negative. Antigen The benefits of controlling BVD in understanding of what was being necessary to develop a testing strategy. ELISA at one month of age detects beef herds are recognised by the farmer attempted, she said. Was the sample to For example, it is more economic to test viraemic animals and PIs and positives and success breeds further interest. detect the presence of disease, or calves for BVD before too much should be retested 3-4 weeks later. confirm a diagnosis, or establish a growing money is put into the animal or PCR on blood will detect acute What do you know about Johne’s diagnosis, and was a current infection to the animal is found positive after the infection and can be used on all animals, It would appear that if you think you be identified, or a previous exposure, or first calving. but use on bulk milk can give unreliable know all about Johne’s disease, then a vaccination history? Was the herd The ear notch sampling system is results due to contaminated milk lines. think again. That was the message that being tested to establish freedom from valuable for newborn calves. There was The study has shown that double came through from two supporting disease or to monitor presence of some concern in discussion about the fencing the farm boundary can be presentations that highlighted issues disease? sales of these tags direct to farmers. impractical but avoiding co-grazing in with infected herds. If in doubt about the type or One danger is detecting transient fields next to neighbours’ stock is more George Caldow (SAC Veterinary number of samples to be taken, infections and their use needs to be part delegates were urged to ask the lab. Re- of a control or eradication programme. sampling the same animal, or other Further information about the animals in contact, increases the chances details of programmes is contained of an accurate diagnosis. The advice is within the CHeCS technical document that if a result isn’t immediately (www.checs.co.uk). Reading university forthcoming, don’t give up. has developed the disease cost calculator Examples were shown of samples which is available at received at the lab that were www.fhpmodels.reading.ac.uk/models.ht contaminated in transit, of inadequate m. size, poorly preserved and generally The prevalence of persistently showing a lack of appreciation by the infected (PI) animals was shown in a Speakers and delegates enjoy a break in the sunshine. AUGUST 2010 VETERINARY PRACTICE LIVESTOCK 55

Services) pointed out that although Extraction of DNA from Map is Peter Orpin’s Top Tips practice-based infectious disease there was evidence about reduction in difficult and inhibitors of PCR reaction n Infectious disease control takes control programme. For practice milk yield, clinical cases and an are present in faeces. Commercially time. planning meetings he advises that you increased susceptibility to disease (70% available PCR kits vary in their ability to n Avoid “while you are here” free do not start with a blank piece of of cows culled for other disease tested overcome test inhibition. advice. paper. Make a proposal for a plan positive to Johne’s on faecal culture), Serum samples are most likely to be n Free advice has the same liability beforehand and circulate it. It is farmers do not believe the modelling positive at the end of lactation and milk as paid advice! worth creating an “infectious disease cost studies. If not controlled, the samples at the beginning of lactation. n Pre-book time to discuss and champion” within the practice. impact of Johne’s disease (Mycobacterium However, there is no biological reason charge for time spent assessing Knowledge and information will avium subspecies paratuberculosis) gets why an animal should have antibody in risks/doing a proper job. need to be collected and assessed in worse but the infection can be present the milk and not in the serum. Milk order to define the practice disease without damaging the herd. antibody positive animals that are being spread on grazed pasture, from strategy, before arranging client In a UK study, 65% of the herds negative for serum antibody are false other farms, indicate an issue with meetings or other forms of tested antibody positive. When visited, positives. Bulk milk antibody ELISA contractors and cleanliness. communication. All farmers do not 37% of the farmers stated that they had will test positive if at least 5% of the If Johne’s disease is not controlled have the same aspirations with Johne’s disease in the herd but the herd are antibody positive. now, the incidence of this disease will disease control so meetings need to proportion of the herds that were By this time, clinical disease should rise unnoticed until it becomes allow the clients to express their positive after all tests were carried out have been observed and this approach impossible to do anything about it, he concerns. and the analysis completed was 35%. can be used as a relatively insensitive said. Eight case histories detailed the “Let the farmers do the work,” he This is comparable to investigations in early warning system. Details of the use situations met, the results of testing, the said. Various health planning tools other countries. of tests to monitor herds thought to be actions taken and the outcomes. Copies are available and Peter demonstrated Field experience indicates that adults free of infection, for control of the farm examples will assist anyone the benefits of a graphic presentation can become infected but the calves are programmes, and for screening facing similar situations. for each farm with the most susceptible in the first three purchased animals are detailed at Myhealthyherd web-based health months of life and calf to calf www.johnesdisease.org.uk On-farm programmes management programme. transmission has been demonstrated. In Keith Cutler (Endell Veterinary It was left to Peter Orpin (Park Charging options for practices the preclinical phase there is low level Group) introduced case studies and Veterinary Group) to consider the include an interpretation fee for lab shedding. understanding from the work on Johne’s practical considerations when reporting, for extended time on the disease within the Wiltshire practice. He implementing disease control farm and a monthly fee for disease Iceberg effect pointed out that if researchers did prove programmes on farm. His opening control incorporating a package of In a 100 cow herd, there is an iceberg a link between Map in cattle and point was that “failing to plan is risk assessments, testing and effect with 10 to 14 animals less than Crohn’s disease in man, there was planning to fail – the only advantage reporting. two years old having silent potential for this to be to not planning is avoiding the period The conclusion was that infectious infection, 4-8 with If researchers do the “next big food of worry before you fail”. disease management, managed well, is subclinical disease, 1-2 scare”. There is a need to create a profitable and interesting. with clinical and one prove a link Johne’s disease has advanced case. This between Map in no effective treatment gives a total of 15 to 25 cattle and Crohn’s available and is animals per 100 cows. disease in man, therefore irreversible Transmission is by there is potential and ultimately fatal. the oral route through The disease is long infected faeces, via for this to be the term with insidious colostrum (also mainly next big food onset and therefore due to faecal scare. chronic and the gut contamination on the wall becomes teats), via milk and in utero. Faeces thickened, so reducing absorption of contain very high numbers of nutrients and fluids and causes enteritis. organisms. Sheep have been shown to Map is related to Tb and can affect the be infected on infected cattle farms and skin test. rabbits are a wildlife reservoir. Map has The trend for prevalence is up. been isolated from bull semen. Many animals are culled for other Management of the dry cow and reasons before clinical Johne’s develops. calving areas is important with dung More testing is required to establish management, including addressing faecal herd status and prevalence and to guide contamination of water troughs and a culling policy. The testing programme water systems. Waste milk should not be needs to include suspect cases, offspring fed and greater hygienic precautions are of confirmed cases, cohorts of necessary, particularly with the feeding confirmed cases, cull cows and all of colostrum. A genetic susceptibility to animals over two years of age on an the disease has been demonstrated. annual basis. The diagnosis of clinical disease is Improvements in hygiene are not a problem but it is difficult to detect essential and the theme is to keep baby individual animals with subclinical calves and faeces from adult cows infection. There is no gold standard for separate. Slurry management has to be cattle diagnostic tests for Johne’s disease. applied. Examples of residual disease BCVA congress in Torquay in October THIS year’s BCVA congress takes place in the Riviera International Conference Centre in Torquay from 14th to 16th October. In addition to the customary clinical sessions and workshops there will again be a morning of presentations aimed at recent graduates. A full social programme is also being arranged. Details are on www.bcva.org.uk. 56 LIVESTOCK VETERINARY PRACTICE AUGUST 2010 Agricultural show reveals the latest in livestock care THERE is nothing like a traditional first farmers to negotiate an installation agricultural show to have a good deal, by offering a few pictures or a look at the current developments demonstration, will save a few bob. and products that are available for Planning for outwintering of dry Outwintering on woodchip pads. looking after livestock. cows, suckler cows, beef steers and farmers, but there may be an example Some shows have been given over youngstock on woodchip pads, as an arriving near you fairly soon. The showing various labelled items and a to the leisure side but although you can alternative to straw yards or grassland, system was being described as “the storybook approach of photographs view every conceivable needs to take place Ferrari of cattle care” but this may have around the walls of the tent. The car implement to improve soon. Finishing cattle been due to the colour rather than display appeared to be attractive to the garden, join the are said to gain weight performance. children. The pictures of heroic surgery, army or take delivery of better on pads Milk production and all matters with plates and fixings inserted into a hot tub, the Royal compared to those associated with dairying is a major topic limbs, were of particular interest. Cornwall Show is still housed on slats or in for the south-west of England. There is One of the charities supported by dedicated to agriculture visited the Royal straw yards, for the concern from the milk buyers about the the Royal Cornwall this year was The proper. Cornwall Show to see same feeding regime. drop in milk production. The figures for Royal Agricultural Benevolent Maybe this is why the variety of The work required the country are very large and to see the Institution, which is dedicated to Prince Charles was livestock, products to construct the pads, information that 33.4 million litres less helping members of the farming visiting and seen to be and services on to contain and control milk were produced in 2009-10 community who are suffering hardship. taking an interest in the display effluent, has been the compared to 2008-09 appears rather There is a scheme to provide training chainsaw wood carving. subject of extensive daunting, even though total production “to improve the financial stability of He may even have joined study and after a difficult was some 12,825 million litres. low income farming families”. in with the general view that tractors beginning the details appear to be The annual awards from Milk Link The original idea appears to be to and implements have become “too darn established. There is a balance between for the best combined Bactoscan, enable someone to obtain work outside expensive”. the size of the woodchip, the number of somatic cell count, butterfat, protein, no of the farm to supplement the farm Cow comfort and recycling may animals on the pad and the cleanliness antibiotic failures or extraneous water, income. appear to be distantly linked but the of the animals. cover the results for the year to March. With the shortage of available rubber bed for cubicles, made out of As the beasts are exposed to the The award is split between herds with labour on many farms, the stockman old trainers, caught the eye. These are elements throughout the winter, it is an annual supply of less than and more who can help out with gathering, promoted as cubicle mattresses, 40mm necessary to avoid thin-skinned breeds, than 500,000 litres. drenching, weighing, testing or other thick, described as a rubber insulating as the weight gain benefit may be lost in The shortfall in production is farm animal support functions, appears top cover with textile reinforcement shivering. Further details and therefore represented by no production to be an opportunity that could be met inside. construction plans are available from at all from some 50 dairy herds. Pictures by training from accredited veterinary The cover is non-slip and non- www.eblex.org.uk and the photo was were available of the Cornish-bred practices in support of animal welfare. abrasive, suitable for all weights of taken at a demonstration workshop at heifer that sold for 90,000 guineas a The charity contact point is via livestock, washable, and comes with a North Wyke during a particularly wet couple of months ago. Much is being www.rabi.org.uk 10-year guarantee. Trials are taking place period. discussed about the breeding potential Livestock featured heavily at the and the findings will be published by the At the end of the cattle handling of quality beasts. show. Too heavily in one case where a Kingshay Trust in due course. race there will be a cattle handling bull being paraded butted a fellow The cubicle display was next to the system for hoof trimming. Traditionally Low-key representation competitor over the rail and on top of a wavy race designs, based on the work of these were referred to as a crush but There appeared to be a rather low-key lady watching the judging. She appeared Temple Grandin. It would be interesting nowadays the machine is designed to representation of veterinary practices at not to be too badly hurt in that she to see such an installation in action for contain the animal, and all the relevant the show. Unlike other shows, practices stood up but she was taken away by TB testing but maybe a video is parts, so that any aspect can be attended appear not to have targeted the Royal ambulance. available. If anyone knows of one it’s to with the minimum of stress on the Cornwall, which seems unusual, with Some of the livestock was perhaps likely there will be considerable interest animal or the operator. the emphasis on livestock in general. not exactly as anticipated and the belly if installation of curves makes the job At one time a basic model had bolt- For any practices considering showing dancers attracted an appreciative crowd, easier with fractious bullocks. ons including a head scoop, front belly next year it would be worthwhile to visit being close to the beer tent. The black recycled plastic material, harness, front belly strap, high level rear the South West shown at an earlier welfare conference, leg winch, front and rear hoof blocks Dairy Show where is also now available as curved sections and various lifting straps. The first there is a significant of galvanised sheeting. No prices are import of the Cattle Loco system, from veterinary practice offered as standard so it seems that the Wisconsin, was being demonstrated presence. without a cow in Well done situ but the various though to XL Vets tilts and lifts that for their turn out could be achieved and also to the looked very Cornwall Veterinary impressive. Association. Their This machine emphasis was on was being the content of a interrogated by Cornish vet’s car, hoof trimmers, with the back end Recycled trainers turned into a cubicle mattress. rather than of a vehicle The latest equipment from Wisconsin: Cattle Loco. INôCANINEôOSTEOARTHRITIS

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For further information please contact Pfi zer Animal Health, Walton Oaks, Tadworth, Surrey KT20 7NS POM-V Pfi zer Animal Health, 9 Riverwalk, National Digital Park, Citywest Business Campus, Dublin 24 POM Trocoxil contains mavacoxib. Use medicines responsibly (www.noah.co.uk/responsible). AH123/10 58 ON THE ROAD VETERINARY PRACTICE AUGUST 2010 An attractive and enjoyable four- seater coupé at a reasonable price IF you could be any nationality in Like most French thinking, style is however, all models do get climate AT A GLANCE the world other than your own, paramount and in this respect the control and Renault’s excellent which would it be? Renault should be deemed a great Bluetooth telephone connection system Model tested: This is a question that I have spent success. It really is an achingly beautiful as standard which mean that on an Renault Laguna Coupé dCi 150 many a moment deliberating although I car to look at. equipment level, the Laguna is almost Transmission: 6 speed manual have yet to nail down my final answer. From behind it looks like a mini without equal. Power output: 148bhp Part of me would like to be a Brazilian Aston Martin DB9 with a very similar Those with a young family will be CO emissions: 157g/km so that if any of my future offspring rear light arrangement and from the side pleased to know that the excellent safety 2 0-60: 9.5 seconds showed proclivity for it is reminiscent of the standards for which Renault has become kicking a ball around gorgeous Alfa GT with synonymous are upheld within this new Top speed: 131mph they would have a a long, sculpted body model. Fuel consumption (combined): chance of playing for a that flows effortlessly With a reputation for continually 47.9mpg national team that into the low roofline. securing five star EuroNCAP awards, Price as tested: £20,835 actually had a chance In addition, all Renault has ensured that all Laguna OVERALL: ++++/5 of winning a major variants receive 18-inch Coupés get six airbags, electronic tournament. alloy wheels and xenon stability control and xenon headlamps as believe it would make a highly enticing Let’s be honest, at headlights as standard part of the standard package. option as it really is a terrific car. For present there is little which means that, like those looking to keep running costs to a chance of the England the catwalk models of Plenty of choice minimum, they would be best off national team winning ROBBIE TIFFIN Paris, the Laguna When it comes to selecting an engine, considering the 148bhp 2.0-litre diesel, anything more than a Coupé will have no buyers are hardly short of choice. At which produces 157g/km of CO and has been trying out 2 soap opera award for the stylish and problems in turning present there are two petrol units returns a highly respectable 47.9mpg. the most debaucherous desirable Renault heads. available, either the 202bhp On the road, the Renault manages series of extra-marital Laguna Coupé Inside, the turbocharged 2.0-litre or to support its desirable affairs. Laguna’s cabin is the gas guzzling top-of- ...all versions looks with a very From an alternative surprisingly the-range 236bhp 3.5- come with similar enjoyable driving perspective, being accommodating for a car litre V6. Those favouring experience. Renault’s Swedish might also be beneficial as in this sector although the two an oil-burner can choose levels of hi-tech 4Control four- being tall and blond with blue eyes has individual rear chairs mean the Renault from either the 148 or equipment wheel steering system definitely, without wanting to sound like is strictly a four-seater with no room for 177bhp versions of the expected of means the driver can a small moustached German, got some a fifth occupant. That being said, all firm’s highly regarded prestige saloon count on superb levels major advantages, especially given the four occupants do get decent head and 2.0-litre dCi powerplant. cars. of grip and agility fact that the majority of females in leg-room meaning long distance The model I tested through corners and Sweden share similar traits. journeys would never be considered an was the 148bhp diesel engine Laguna can have total confidence in the car’s Finally, my third option is slightly uncomfortable experience. which was both smooth and refined yet handling abilities. more controversial in the fact that part unfortunately lacking in mid-range My only gripe was that the ride was of me would actually quite like to be Passing the golf club test punch and overtaking prowess. a little firm and the entry level diesel French. Their sense of style, the Gallic The boot is also capacious and the 423- My advice would be to consider the was a little lacking in power for my imperiousness, the blasé shrugging of litre load bay easily passed the standard more powerful 2.0 dCi 180 variant that liking. one’s shoulders to life’s difficulties ... golf club test with room to spare. On provides some of the missing poke Looking back, I thoroughly enjoyed there is just a certain je ne sais quoi about the downside, the interior lacked some without affecting the fuel economy too my week spent with the Laguna Coupé being French that I find highly of the premium feel you would expect drastically. and would have no problems in appealing. of a top end coupé with far too much Priced at around £20,000 (for the recommending it to anyone looking for It also fits in quite nicely with the “scratchy plastic” for my liking. 148bhp diesel model I tested), many an attractive and enjoyable four-seater French car I have been reviewing this Whilst there’s very little wrong with may think that the Coupé doesn’t coupé without wanting to break the week: the new Renault Laguna Coupé. the quality of the fixtures and fittings, appear to be particularly good value and bank in the process. and it should be is rather on the expensive side, especially Yes it has its flaws but it more than noted that leather given the fact that Renault is normally makes up for these by being one of the trim comes as so competitive in this area. But it should most stylish and desirable cars that can standard on the be recognised that the French firm be bought for under £50,000. But what GT version, the clearly hasn’t skipped on kit for the else have we come to expect from the Coupé’s interior Laguna Coupé, meaning all versions French? just didn’t feel come with similar special enough to levels of make it stand out equipment as the best in its expected of class – personally prestige saloon I feel the Alfa cars. GT still shades it. As a company On a more car or a second- positive note, hand purchase I Have there ever been more challenges with practical business issues – a must facing Vets? Presented with an ever wider in the current economic environment. variety of animals and more demanding All this, plus a vibrant exhibition featuring owners, and an ever-expanding choice 200 leading suppliers, lots of networking of treatments and procedures... plus CPD opportunities and the warmest possible requirements to fulfil, practices to run, welcome. And precisely because we new equipment to check out… there’s so know that time is money, it all takes place much to do and so little time to do it all. over two days in one convenient London location at an incredibly low price. Help is at hand. The London Vet Show is specifically designed with the needs READER OFFER – SAVE of busy Vets in mind. There’s over 60 HUNDREDS OF POUNDS hours of cutting edge, clinical expertise BOOK BEFORE 31ST qualifying for CPD in three separate streams of lectures and featuring leading AUGUST FOR JUST £129+VAT speakers from across the world. 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That said, if you’re prepared to lock up at least £10,000 for 120 days, you’d be able to get an account USEFUL WEBSITES n British Bankers Association bank account finder that pays 2.97% gross. For shorter term deposits, Bank http://bba.moneyfacts.co.uk/ of Cyprus (UK) will pay 1.75% gross on minimum n Business Link deposits of £1 that are held in a 35-day notice www.businesslink.gov.uk/ account. Not great, but better than nothing. n Banking: Conduct of Business Sourcebook Finding the best deals on long-term deposit www.fsahandbook.info/FSA/html/handbook/ accounts is harder and requires another website – BCOBS Fairinvestment. This site features other products such n The Federation of Small Businesses as RBS’s Royal Deposit Plan which requires a www.fsb.org.uk/benefits/business-banking minimum single investment of £3,600 for a three-year n Moneyfacts term in exchange for which it will pay 4% gross. A http://moneyfacts.co.uk/compare/business/ one-year investment product with Cater Allen Private n Fairinvestment Bank wants a minimum of £50,000 but it will pay www.fairinvestment.co.uk/ 2.2% gross. n Moneysupermarket www.moneysupermarket.com/credit- Comprehensive listing cards/business/ Comparing business credit cards is tricky as finding a n The Financial Ombudsman Service follow Islamic principles. A quick search reveals names decent comparison site is nigh on impossible. www.financial-ombudsman.org.uk such as the Islamic Bank of Britain and LloydsTSB Moneysupermarket seems to offer the most n Ethical Banks that operate in this sector. comprehensive listing – only seven cards though. A http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ethical_banking Of course there’s more to choosing an account search of Google for “business credit card” works, but #List_of_ethical_banks than just the simple cost of banking. You also need to is very disparate indeed. n Islamic Banks consider the cost of any merchant services and the You’ll notice that the deals aren’t as good as those http://uk.dir.yahoo.com/business_and_economy/ rates of interest paid on the deposit accounts. You offered to private individuals because they generally shopping_and_services/financial_services/ may also want a business credit card so that personal require an annual fee which can range from £32 up to banking/banks/islamic/ and business finances can be kept separate. £78. That said, they do have extras bolted on. n Business Credit Cards For example, American Express Nectar for www.businessesandcards.org.uk/right_choice/ ‘Best buy’ chart Business offers a card with no annual fee and which incentives.html Turning to business deposit accounts, the BBA can be used to earn Nectar points. The Barclaycard n Merchant Services product finder is of little use as it’s only concerned Commercial Visa Business Gold offers 90-day www.retailersandcards.org.uk/resources/links.html with current accounts. One source of advice in this purchase protection, travel accident cover and card area is Moneyfacts which features a “best buy” chart. holder misuse insurance. Sadly, with the historically low interest rates, depositors If you are going to pay off the bill entirely each website. aren’t going to get rich on their money. month, then the bolt-ons are the things you need to All “payment service providers”, such as banks or consider. But if you building societies, need to be registered with the might be using the card Financial Services Authority and must comply with the as a method of Banking Conduct of Business Sourcebook (BCOBS), borrowing, then you which took effect on 1st November 2009. Veterinary should be reading the This sets out the rules which financial institutions headline interest rate. must comply with in regard to charges that can be Again, there is a wide made, the length of transaction times and the types variation. and presentation of information that must be Equipment The HSBC provided to customers. The BCOBS also covers the Commercial Card is one procedures and timings for switching between banks. of the lowest in that it charges a typical Ombudsman service Finance (variable) APR of 15.9%. Remember that if all goes wrong and you find yourself At the other end of the wanting to seek redress against a bank or other spectrum is the financial institution, you do – assuming that as a Barclaycard Commercial business your turnover is under £1 million – have If you’re a high rate tax payer, Visa Business Gold back-up in the form of the Financial Ombudsman which will charge 26.9% Services. The FOS has rigid rules that must be Performance Finance APR. followed though. is renowned for it’s ability The flipside of using Please note that the rates quoted were correct at credit cards is accepting the time of writing so do look carefully at the deals to offset tax them. There are being offered. Make a point of regularly checking the numerous reasons to deals you are signed up to. accept cards including But even though the rates can and do change, lower risk of cash loss remember that the key lesson here is that you may be through theft, improved able to make savings on your banking arrangements, cash flow and the plain especially if you use different banks for different fact that people like to services. Whilst you might lose some continuity, you www.performancefinance.co.uk pay on card – it’s could make further savings. Give us a call today on convenient. Choosing a Lastly, keep in mind that rates are often negotiable t : 01536 52 96 96 merchant acquirer is a – be tough! huge subject in its own n “A bank is a place where they lend you an umbrella in right. For more detail on fair weather and ask for it back when it rains.” the options available and – Robert Frost a full listing of the n “If you owe the bank $100, that’s your problem. If you acquirers, see the UK owe the bank $100 million, that’s the bank’s problem.” Card Association’s – John Paul Getty Retailers and Cards AUGUST 2010 VETERINARY PRACTICE BUSINESS & FINANCE 63 Budget pain all round EVERYONE had been warned that This relief will also be available to with immediate effect for those who further reforms, due to take effect in the Budget would be painful, and so new practices starting up from 23rd had not attained age 75 by 22nd June 2011-12. it was, even if it rather failed to live June 2010 if they meet the qualifying 2010. On the negative side, the up to its dire “emergency” billing. conditions. This means that those currently Government intends to repeal the The whole package of measures for Practices that will need substantial taking unsecured income (income complex new rules on pension tax relief business was fairly balanced and will be amounts of new equipment over the drawdown) will no longer be subject to that were to have taken effect from phased in, although veterinary practices next five years should consider if they the more restrictive post-75 minimum 2011-12. One option is to reduce the operating through companies fared should make the investment now. The and maximum income limits until age annual limit for qualifying contributions better than sole traders and annual investment allowance which 77. made by individuals and companies partnerships. provides 100% relief against profit on Perhaps as importantly, the penal from the current £255,000 to The personal allowance increase to most plant and machinery (but not cars) charges (up to 82% of somewhere between £7,475 from 2011-12 will be reduced from the fund) on any lump Practices that will £30,000 and £45,000 – (for individuals aged £100,000 to £25,000 a sum death benefits, need substantial limiting the scope for under 65) is unlikely to year from April 2012. previously applicable amounts of new vets to make large benefit many vets as Practices trading as from age 75, will now contributions when the basic rate band for companies will also not apply until age 77. equipment over approaching 2011-12 is to be benefit by reducing Instead, any individual the next five retirement. The reduced to effectively their profits taxed now who has not yet bought years should Government also remove the benefit for at 21% or 28% (20% an annuity will have a consider if they intends to increase the higher and additional or 27% for 2011-12) 35% charge levied on state pension age to 66 rate taxpayers: the 50% rather than at lower any lump sum death should make the from 2016. additional rate band is rates of corporation benefits left to investment now. Clearly, there are unlikely to be removed MARILYN MARTIN tax in the future: the nominated beneficiaries. many new tax issues in the next few years. summarises the main corporation tax It is important to note that the for vets to consider but, overall, the In fact, the changes in the new rate reduces to 24% by requirement to take a tax-free cash lump changes further emphasise the reduction in the basic Chancellor’s first 2014-15. sum at age 75 appears to still apply, and attractions for vets operating as sole rate band suggested Budget which are The introduction it will be necessary to enter unsecured traders or in partnership to incorporate would more than likely to affect of a new 28% rate of income if the individual does not want their businesses. compensate for the veterinary surgeons capital gains tax (CGT) to purchase an annuity. n Please note that this advice is for allowance increase and was not as bad as These rules are interim measures to guidance only and individuals should make higher rate many had feared but allow individuals reaching age 75 after take their own professional advice taxpayers £100 worse off overall. the Chancellor has left his options open 22nd June 2010 to defer making a before making any decisions based As expected, employers’ national for 2011-12 and later tax years – so the decision prior to the introduction of thereon. insurance contributions (NIC) will rate could increase further. increase to 13.8% from 2011-12. The The new rules hark back to the pre- LETTER TO THE EDITOR cost of this increase to employers will 2008 CGT regime with gains being be reduced by raising the threshold at added to the individual’s annual income which they start to pay NIC on each to decide which tax rate is to be applied. Self-employed status and employee’s salary. Gains falling within the basic rate band meeting with HMRC officers The proposed £21 per week will be taxed at 18%; gains falling in increase in the threshold (above the higher bands will suffer CGT at 28%. Dear Sir, normal inflation uprating) means that For example, an investor with The July edition of Veterinary Practice contained an article on how to handle an employers will save up to £150 per income of £25,000 in the current year HMRC enquiry. While I would generally agree with the contents of the article, employee compared to the full 1% who realises a gain of £30,000 on there are two aspects that I would take issue with. increase. selling shares (after using capital losses The first concerns the advice that any employer requiring clarification of This does not mean an employer’s and his or her annual exemption) will worker status might seek guidance from the Employment Status Indicator Tool total NIC bill will go down. For pay some CGT at 18% and some at (ESI) on the HMRC website. This, from my specialist knowledge, is definitely example, assuming a threshold increase 28% unless entrepreneurs’ relief applies. not to be recommended. The ESI tool is biased towards HMRC’s preferred for inflation of 5%, the adjustments view, with insufficient regard to Case Law; it is misleading and is likely to lead to would still mean that an employer would Great news! an incorrect decision on status, as well as to a belief that self-employment by pay more NIC for any employee on an The change to entrepreneurs’ relief is vets or nurses is almost impossible to achieve. annual salary of more than £24,860 for great news: the lifetime limit for gains Self-employment relationships are commendable and are simple to achieve 2011-12. on business assets eligible for with the help and support of a qualified professional adviser, from whom initial However, vets thinking of setting up entrepreneurs’ relief is increased to £5 advice should be sought. Those who are Accredited Accountants with the a new practice outside London, the million for qualifying business disposals Professional Contractors Group (a trade federation of freelance workers) would south-east and the eastern region may occurring on or after 23rd June 2010. be able to provide such guidance. benefit from the new scheme to start in The effect is to reduce the tax charge on The second issue concerns meetings with Revenue officers. The article September 2010 that will exempt a new qualifying gains to 10% so it is now correctly stated that there is no statutory obligation to attend meetings but that employer from paying the first £5,000 worth up to £900,000 in total: sometimes it can be helpful. I would alter “sometimes” to “rarely”. No matter of Class 1 employer’s NIC due in the increasing the benefit of holding the how able the taxpayer may be, on the spot questions can be dangerous. first 12 months of employment, for practice premises within the business Conversely, all questions should be put in writing so that, if the matter should each of the first 10 employees hired in until retirement. become contentious, or if a case goes to Tribunal, clear written evidence exists. the first year of business. More good news on retirement Yours faithfully, came with the change to pension ALAN GIBSON, MA Marilyn Martin is a partner at PKF annuities. The requirement to either A Gibson Taxation Services and (UK) LLP, telephone 01473 320700, purchase an annuity or enter an e-mail [email protected]; Agate Consulting Ltd. (Professional Contractors’ Group), alternatively secured pension (ASP) 28 Riverside Business Centre, Victoria Street, High Wycombe, Bucks. HP11 2LT. website www.pkf.co.uk. from age 75 has been changed to age 77 64 BUSINESS & FINANCE VETERINARY PRACTICE AUGUST 2010 Simplify your business processes to improve client service and profitability IF you are a veterinary practice expenses, and you face a real business animal owner or manager, ask yourself two challenge. “bundles” or questions. Fees based on true costs plus procedures. First, how much profit are you reasonable profit is the answer. Also, Each procedure losing each year due to poor fees managing fees to profit goals rather can be management, missed than gross revenue is a customised to fees and poor client much better way of your practice’s communications? Not measuring business standards of sure? In fact, performance. care. Each step consultants agree that Now consider the in the between 10 and 20% issue of missed procedure, and of profits are lost just charges. Many the associated on missed charges. veterinarians use client charge, is The total revenue lost vaccination visits to automatically is arguably near 30% drive client reminders. tracked, and I’ll explain why The problem arises including: later. JAMES BARNES when a new patient n minutes of Second, how outlines a new ‘pack’ needs to have veterinarian time would you like a which can be used to reminders entered. – and related practice management ensure that You may have a charges; system capability that everything is charged process but it’s very n minutes of will reduce the lost for correctly likely that it is nurse time – and profit and increase unreliable. related charges; income – all with a We have analysed n use of any simple entry? If you’re nodding your several dozen practices and have been resources, e.g., head, please read on. shocked to discover that between 10 surgery theatre RxWorks is now offering a and 50% of reminders had not been and equipment, capability unique among practice added to the patient record. These anaesthesia management systems; one where lost opportunities to drive return visits machines, etc. – This example invoice has been return on investment can be supported can easily result in a 25-30% loss of and related charges; produced by Performance Pack with by fact. That tool is RxWorks profit. n incidental consumables, e.g., cotton just one click. Performance Pack. A significant loss of profit also balls, solutions, needles, sutures, etc. – occurs because of poor processing of and related charges. follow-up with staff prompted to call High cost of a poor process multi-step services. Consider a typical To build loyalty and to encourage the client and record the conversation There is no argument amongst surgery, which can consist of 10 steps clients to comply with recommended in the patient record). veterinarians that there is a substantial or more. It’s been shown that the error standards of care, you need to inform In addition to educating clients and income loss due to poor processes. rate with multi-step processes increases and educate continuously and eliminating error, productivity First, consider fees management. the more steps you have. comprehensively. Studies show that increases due to a significant reduction Many practices still set fees that, at For those interested in looking into the vast majority are looking to their in the amount of data entry. best, are not supported by sound more details on this, we veterinarian to educate Just as veterinarians must business principles. These inexact suggest you read up on ...the principle is them and recommend communicate with and listen to their calculations not only defy business Lean Sigma 6, a process that the more what is best for their pet. customers to achieve long-term logic, they may also contribute to the management steps involved in success, so must the vendors who increasing perception that methodology used by the delivery of a Informative invoice serve this industry. RxWorks has veterinarian’s fees are “too high”. companies like product or Within the 5,000+ small, supplied advanced veterinary practice Competition for clients is fierce, Motorola and General equine and large animal management systems and services for not only due to more veterinary Electric to improve service, the procedures provided in over two decades. Performance Pack practices, but to increasingly quality. greater chance Performance Pack, text is results from client feedback and discriminating consumers. Simply, the principle of error. Each automatically included to requests, plus the opinion of industry Clients may shop prices from other is that the more steps step decreases educate and inform experts. veterinarians in your area or they may involved in the delivery clients. With one For more information about this decide that ordering products over the of a product or service, the chance of keystroke, your staff can powerful automated tool and other internet is more economical than the greater chance of getting it right produce an invoice that RxWorks system capabilities and purchasing from your practice. Add to error. Each step by roughly 10%. educates, informs and services, contact the author on 0845 that the increasing cost of veterinary decreases the chance of reflects the true value of 4747 445, e-mail equipment, wages and other operating getting it right by roughly 10%. your professional services. [email protected]. James Barnes is general manager, So, in our example of a 10-step Information includes: Europe, of RxWorks Ltd, an surgery, if each is recorded separately, n the reason for the visit; This article is the second in the series international provider of practice your chance of being right is 35%. A n specific procedure information; in which Veterinary Practice is management software for the single step “bundle” of services n special instructions – for example, looking at the various practice veterinary profession. He joined the improves that chance to 90% after-care information; management systems currently on company in January 2007, having . n patient history information to help the market and also at ways in which spent more than five years in By-the-minute price tracking drive a common strategy and plan for practices can get more out of their veterinary practice management as RxWorks Performance Pack eliminates the patient’s long-term healthcare; computer system – and provide an RxWorks client and a further eight error by providing over 5,000 pre- n comprehensive surgery information; details of some of the tools available years in optical retail management. defined small animal, equine and large n recall reminders (no more missed to make business life easier. AUGUST 2010 VETERINARY PRACTICE BUSINESS & FINANCE 65 Investment ideas for your 2010-11 ISA THE ISA concept was introduced ISAs and therefore carry the same tax- The Aberdeen Asia Pacific fund to tie their money up for five years plus by the then Chancellor, Gordon free advantages one could obtain by particularly favours the Asian financial in the pursuit of making significant Brown, in his first ever budget and subscribing to a new ISA today. sector at present, in the belief that long-term gains. I believe that these investments were first made Rather than opening a new many companies have transparent valuations in Asia remain reasonably available to the public in 1999. account, investors will still be able to business models, making it easier to attractive and am confident that They are widely considered as invest in this re-labelled PEP, just as identify investment opportunities. earnings will continue to improve this highly tax-efficient wrappers for long as they haven’t subscribed to While many of Asia’s economies year. investments that protect funds another stocks and shares ISA during are in great financial shape, Hugh That being said, I would want to deposited in them from both income the current tax year. Young, fund manager at Aberdeen Asia make sure investors remain wary of the and capital gains taxes, although it The government also announced Pacific, clearly has reservations about likely short-term setbacks in these should be noted that that any cash saved so China. Its massive stimulus programme markets and that they must be unlike pensions they far in ISAs can be and record credit expansion has led to prepared to weather any storms in the do not benefit from rolled forward into a a surge in the property market, and the pursuit of their long-term growth tax relief on new stocks and shares authorities are now taking steps to objectives. contributions. ISA, without infringing avoid asset price bubbles without As with any investment in stock An ISA does also that year’s contribution damaging long-term growth and thus market-linked investments, it should have the added benefit limit. This means ISA shattering consumer confidence. always be remembered that the value of of being easily savers will be able to any investment can go down as well as accessible and funds transfer money saved Huge growth potential up, whilst past performance is no can be removed as in their cash ISA to In addition, the vast majority of guarantee of future returns. and when the investor their stocks and shares Chinese companies are still state run That said, a well-diversified wishes, although there ANDREW NEALE ISA should they wish with many continuing to be poorly portfolio, including the funds are limits on believes a well- to take a more managed. It goes without saying that mentioned above, could serve long- contributions within diversified portfolio adventurous approach the growth potential of China still term ISA investors very well in the each tax year. could serve long-term with their monies in remains huge, but Hugh Young and his future and benefit from considerable Currently, ISAs (or investors very well in the pursuit of higher team clearly believe that using Hong capital growth. individual savings the future returns. Kong-listed companies to access this n The author can be contacted at: accounts) are held by So now we have potential is far less risky, as they have Allchurch Bailey Wealth, 93 High more than 16 million dealt with the basic superior standards of both business Street, Evesham, Worcs. WR11 individual investors, with policies worth details, here are my top tips for stocks management and accounting. 4DU; telephone 01386 442597, e- more than £180 billion. and shares-based ISA investment in the Like my previous selection, I would mail [email protected]; In the current 2010-11 tax year, forthcoming tax year. recommend this fund for those looking website www.abwealth.co.uk. people will be allowed to save up to £5,100 into a cash ISA and up to 1. BlackRock Gold & General £10,200 in a stocks and shares ISA, During periods of economic within a total overall annual savings uncertainty, like the one we are Fed up with looking limit of £10,200. This is an increase on currently facing, investments into gold last year’s contribution limits which can be a highly attractive option. This were limited to £3,600 into a cash ISA is because gold is a stateless investment for that perfect job? and up to £7,200 in a stocks and shares that has a universal appeal. The climate ISA, within an overall annual savings for gold is as good as it’s been in recent Why not limit of £7,200. history. The jewellery industry is the major work when Two per tax year market for this commodity and the In addition, ISA savers should be aware enhanced wealth in the middle classes and where that they will be able to invest in two of India and China has dramatically separate ISAs each tax year: a cash ISA escalated the demand for gold. Even at you want? (with a bank or building society) and a current prices it looks excellent value stocks and shares ISA (with an and we think growing demand could investment management company). continue to bolster the price. Although For example, investors can choose it must be remembered that this is not to save £2,000 in a cash ISA with one certain, and that prices may well go provider and £8,200 in a stocks and down as well as up. shares ISA with a different provider I believe the BlackRock Gold & Locum Veterinary Surgeons should they wish to combine the General Fund is an excellent way to liquidity of tax-free cash savings with invest in this sector and a great way for needed throughout the UK some more adventurous investments. investors to benefit over the long term We’ll find assignments to suit It should also be noted by those from the increased demand for gold. who have not recently used their ISA your requirements allowances that on 6th April 2008, all 2. Aberdeen Asia Pacific personal equity plans (PEPs) Whilst many Western governments We pay all our Locums weekly automatically became stocks and shares struggle to cope with their sizeable debt burdens and provide growth “October: This is one of the opportunities for investors, many particularly dangerous months to emerging markets face no such rig invest in stocks. Other dangerous difficulties. In particular, many Asian Call 01392 314070, months are July, January, September, countries, for example, have sound April, November, May, March, June, financial systems and also benefit from or visit www.rigvets.co.uk December, August and February.” having strong balance sheets on both – Mark Twain governmental and personal levels. 66 BUSINESS & FINANCE VETERINARY PRACTICE AUGUST 2010 Investing in ‘alternative assets’ HAVING considered, over my last economic crisis. turned into food by producers. supply, roads, water supply, waste, flood two articles, the fundamentals of For many, as a tangible asset, it Commodities can broadly be split into management, etc. investment and how we seek to offers the option of capital five categories: In the past these assets have differentiate our approach, I am preservation whilst retaining the 1. Agricultural or Softs describe grain, typically been owned and managed by now going to look in some more potential for growth. But gold is just food and fibre commodities like coffee, central or local government but, detail at some of the one asset that can be corn, cotton, maize, soya beans, sugar increasingly, they are attracting less conventional considered as and wheat. Prices are very much driven institutional and private investment, areas of investment, alternative with many by supply and demand and can be both domestic and foreign. beginning this others also now influenced by other factors such as month with available. currency movements – the majority of What are REITs? “alternative assets”. commodities are traded in US dollars. Property or real estate has historically Periods of What are ‘alternative 2. Base Metals describe industrial been perceived as an “alternative asset” volatility in global assets’? metals such as aluminium, copper, lead, to equities for UK investors. Until equity markets are Alternative assets are nickel, tin and zinc. These are key recently, investment in bricks and typical. Volatility is investments that may components in supporting global mortar had been seen as an inflation- often driven by offer a relatively low growth, in particular the construction beating safe haven to the more volatile external factors such GORDON NICOLL correlation to equity and manufacturing industries. equity markets. as economic growth, begins a discussion of markets, i.e. their source 3. Meat and Lifestock describes live Circumstances have changed, but inflation, interest rate some of the less of performance may cattle, lean hogs, pork bellies and investors are no longer limited to and commodity price conventional areas of not be closely linked to feeder cattle. As globalisation boosts domestic real estate investment with fluctuations, to name investment those of traditional the incomes of workers in developing wider choice following the introduction a few, and are outside equity markets. nations, so the demand for more of REIT (Real Estate Investment of the control of the Assets such as expensive meat diets increases. At the Trust) legislation. investment management community. commodities, debt, infrastructure, same time, more efficient ways of In much the same way as unit During such times, many investors property and private equity can all be rearing livestock are constantly being trusts allow private investors to invest will seek alternative asset classes to considered as alternative investments researched, which may increase supply. in equities on a pooled basis, a REIT complement their portfolios. For but have not always been accessible to 4. Precious Metals are alternative assets is a company that owns or manages private investors, this has historically private investors. such as gold, platinum, palladium and commercial or residential property on meant investing in property, fixed Alternative asset classes can offer silver. The price of these assets can behalf of its shareholders. UK income and cash; however, access to differing levels of risk, and may react fluctuate quite dramatically and often REITs came into effect in January more diversified assets is possible. differently to external factors. By in inverse relation to equity markets. 2007. combining a variety of asset classes 5. Other commodities like timber and Why seek to diversify? with differing growth cycles, the overall water can also be classed as alternative What forms of debt are Diversification across asset classes is volatility of a portfolio can be reduced assets although, unlike most other considered an alternative asset? recognised as a way to reduce risk. whilst maintaining the potential for commodities, are not traded on a stock Debt is quite simply another way of Professional investors have, for a long long-term growth. exchange. Access to these assets can be describing bonds or fixed income time, recognised the opportunities to obtained via Exchange Traded Funds investments issued by companies or diversify their investments, not only by What are commodities? (ETFs) which invest in shares in governments. Gilts, Index-Linked Gilts using the traditional asset classes but Commodities typically describe physical companies where business activities are and Corporate Bonds are commonly also considering assets not easily substances such as food, metal or fuel closely associated with the commodity. understood forms of such investment invested in by the private investor. which are bought or sold in their “raw” Shares in forestry management but some of the less well known Gold is a particularly good example form. For example, the underlying companies, for example, provide include: where professional investors, in commodity behind breakfast cereals exposure to timber. As society n Developed Sovereign Debt = a bond particular traders, have long regarded it would be wheat or other types of grain, becomes more environmentally issued by a national government but as an alternative investment in times of which are physically traded before being conscious, the importance of denominated in a foreign currency. renewable materials and commodities They are usually issued by countries increases. with unstable economies susceptible to Telephone helpline service volatile exchange rates or inflation and Is energy a commodity? have a higher default risk than most being offered to practices Energy is used to describe crude oil or government issued debt. PHS-Direct is a new telephone helpline service being launched by Animals at derived commodities such as natural gas n Emerging Market Debt = a bond Home (AAH) to deal with calls from pet owners. and heating oil. Uranium is also classed issued by less developed countries as Modelled on the NHS Direct concept, it is said to offer a 24-hour, year- as an energy commodity. Prices are sovereign or government debt but does round, triage service staffed by vets and registered veterinary nurses. Callers usually driven by scarcity of supply, include some emerging market access the service via a premium rate telephone line and practices which join geo-political unrest, dollar weakness corporate debt and, unsurprisingly, the scheme will each have their own helpline number. and global economic growth. these bonds tend to be sub-investment AAH company director Denis Chirgwin, says the helpline’s availability grade. out-of-hours will mean less distraction, and fewer disturbed nights, for on- How are commodities traded? duty vets from “unnecessary” calls while ensuring an appropriate escalation, if Most commodities are traded on n For further information or to discuss needed, to the caller’s veterinary emergency service. exchanges. For example, metals are any aspect of financial planning, He believes the service will provide new clients for practices – when a traded on the London Metal Exchange contact the author, a founder member caller in their area is not registered with an existing practice. (LME) but, for the private investor, of The Ellis McComb Partnership, 3 “We are also offering a financial bonus as the practice will profit from ETFs now make this type of asset Mortimer Street, Birkenhead, Wirral, every call,” Mr Chirgwin says. “Animals at Home is currently discussing with more accessible. CH41 5EU; telephone 0151 650 6520, veterinary practices throughout the country an offer to provide PHS-Direct to e-mail [email protected]; them and their clients with these built-in benefits.” What is meant by infrastructure? website www.sjpp.co.uk/ellismccomb. The company’s director of veterinary services is Tim Watson. Infrastructure is a broad term to The Ellis McComb Partnership is an For details see www.phs-direct.co.uk. describe assets and services that appointed representative of St James’s underpin an economy, such as power Place Wealth Management plc. essential software for veterinary professionals

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†Plus furosemide as required. *Dogs treated with Vetmedin† had a median survival** of 267 days compared with 140 days for dogs receiving benazepril†1. **Survival was defined as the composite endpoint of cardiac death, euthanasia due to heart failure or treatment failure. Reference 1. Häggström J et al. Effect of pimobendan or benazepril hydrochloride on survival times in dogs with congestive heart failure caused by naturally occurring myxomatous mitral valve disease: The QUEST study. J Vet Intern Med; Vol 22:1124-1135, 2008. Vetmedin contains pimobendan. Prescription only medicine. Further information is available on request from Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Bracknell, RG12 8YS, UK. Tel: +44(0)1344 746959. E-mail: [email protected]. www.vetmedin.co.uk. Date of preparation 01/10. AHD6245.