Veterinary concerns addressed to Scottish Parliament

Antimicrobial resistance, welfare at slaughter and online pet sales were the three key points at the British Veterinary Association's (BVA) annual Scottish dinner.

Held on June 18 at Scottish Parliament, the event was hosted by John Scott MSP. Cabinet secretary Richard Lochhead MSP was also present.

Others in attendance included parliamentarians, senior members of the veterinary profession and key representatives of animal health, welfare and the agri-food industry.

During the dinner, BVA President Peter Jones highlighted the value of veterinary surgeons in working to resolve the pressing issues at the top of the evening's agenda.

He said that, while the availability of flukicidal products is a cause for concern across the UK, it is BVA members in Scotland and Wales who have sounded the alarm bells "most vigorously".

"We are looking to the regulator – the Veterinary Medicine Directorate (VMD) – to find solutions that could facilitate the fast-track for licensing of more flukicides," he explained.

On the subject of welfare at slaughter, Mr Jones reiterated the association's call for all animals to be stunned before slaughter.

"We are grateful to Scottish Government for consulting over these sensitive issues and we look forward to working with you to implement a solution that offers the highest levels of animal welfare, whilst respecting the views of certain religious committees."

Mr Jones also welcomed the review of pet vending legislation, commenting that the explosion of internet shopping has resulted in a culture that says, "I want this now and I can have it".

"When it comes to our pets, I'm afraid that's just not acceptable," he said. "We want to see codes of conduct for these websites enforced across the UK and endorsed by the four administrations."

He concluded that vets, charities and governments must all work together to give a consistent message to potential animal owners with a public awareness campaign.