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EmailIphone Application    Posted: 19th November 2013
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New resources help explain resistance to clients
BVA release waiting room materials on antibiotics

Speaking on European Antibiotic Awareness Day (EAAD) yesterday, the BVA reminded animal owners that the rules for preventing antibiotic resistance in humans also apply to animals.

Described by the chief medical officer as a "catastrophic threat" to humans, the issue of antibiotic resistance was raised at the G8 summit of global leaders earlier this year.

The BVA, however, used EAAD as an opportunity to highlight the need for the responsible use of antibiotics, or antimicrobials, in animals too.

Past president of the association, Peter Jones, commented: "The veterinary profession is acutely aware of the problem of antibiotic resistance and BVA has been working for many years to promote responsible use of these vital medicines.
 
"We all know that antibiotic resistance is a serious threat but animal owners need help to understand what that means in practice and what they can do to reduce the likelihood of resistance developing."

Whilst the BVA says resistance in humans is largely the result of antibiotic use in people, rather than veterinary use, animal healthcare is an important contributing factor when it comes to resistance.

Alongside the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD), the BVA has launched a poster to help pet owners to understand how to protect antibiotics, using the message: "Don't Infect, Don't Expect, Do Protect".

The message is based on keeping animals healthy through good hygiene, preventative care, exercise and nutrition; understanding that not all illnesses require antibiotics; and always using antibiotics according to the instructions on the label.

Mr Jones commented: "Our simple message of Don’t Infect, Don’t Expect, Do Protect should help owners to follow good practice and ensure that antibiotics continue to work for all animals and humans."

Two client leaflets have also been produced to explain antibiotic resistance to pet owners and farmers.

These resources can be downloaded by veterinary practices, as well as members of the public. http://www.bva.co.uk/activity_and_advice/3601.aspx

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Birmingham Dogs Home makes urgent appeal

News Story 1
 Birmingham Dogs Home has issued an urgent winter appeal as it faces more challenges over the Christmas period.

The rescue centre has seen a dramatic increase in dogs coming into its care, and is currently caring for over 200 dogs. With rising costs and dropping temperatures, the charity is calling for urgent support.

It costs the charity £6,000 per day to continue its work.

Fi Harrison, head of fundraising and communications, said: "It's heart-breaking for our team to see the conditions some dogs arrive in. We really are their last chance and hope of survival."

More information about the appeal can be found here. 

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News Shorts
Avian flu confirmed at premises in Cornwall

A case of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been detected in commercial poultry at a premises near Rosudgeon, Cornwall.

All poultry on the infected site will be humanely culled, and a 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone have been put in place. Poultry and other captive birds in the 3km protection zone must be housed.

The case is the second avian flu case confirmed in commercial poultry this month. The H5N5 strain was detected in a premises near Hornsea, East Riding of Yorkshire, in early November. Before then, the disease had not been confirmed in captive birds in England since February.

The UK chief veterinary officer has urged bird keepers to remain alert and practise robust biosecurity.

A map of the disease control zones can be found here.