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Vet nurses told not to be afraid of bats
Maggie Brown
Maggie Brown
Vet practices should be prepared to offer practical approach to bats

Speaking at the BVNA Congress in Telford on its second day, bat expert Maggie Brown reassured vet nurses that despite wildlife and welfare legislation, there is no legal restriction on vet practices caring for bats in the short term.

Health and safety concerns should be taken seriously, however, and sensible precautions taken. The risk is from bites and so the wearing of two layers of latex gloves should be routine when handling bats. If you are likely to handle them on a regular basis, then rabies vaccination may be a good idea.

Any bat found in daylight hours is likely to be compromised. Most commonly, Pipistrelle bats are presented and they are great escapologists. And 'dead' bats may simply be in daily torpor, so leave them alone until they wake up before examining them. A gentle approach to handling is essential.

A clear-sided plastic container is best for temporarily housing the bat and include a tea towel trapped in the lid so that the bat can cling and roost. It is useful to provide a protected heat source.

Provide water or rehydration fluid as a first measure. Food can then be provided, preferably as specially 'beheaded' live mealworms or prescription recovery or puppy-rearing pastes. This is a time-consuming exercise and requires great patience.

Fractures should be assessed on a case-by-case basis with future viability in mind; and cat bite wounds will invariably require antibiotic therapy. Dehydration is a common finding.

Infectious diseases of concern are white nose virus and lyssa viruses, especially EBLV2 in Daubenton's bats.

It is important to contact local bat carers for advice and help in restoring bats to the wild and the following are useful starting points for guidelines and information:

The Bat Conservation Trust website at www.bats.org.uk
National Bat Helpline on 0845 1300 228 or enquiries@bats.org.uk
Maggie Brown on 01943 466101

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.