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Steps taken to tackle work-place injuries
equine vet
"There is a clear need to establish safer systems of work and education of the profession and other animal handlers."
Vet groups join forces to help minimise risks

A consensus statement has been drawn up to help minimise the risk of workplace injuries for equine vets, BEVA has announced.

The move follows shocking findings from a survey of workplace accidents. Released last year, the results showed equine vets receive more injuries in their working life than any other civilian profession, inducing those working in construction, the prison service and the fire brigade.

Round table discussions have been attended by representatives from the BEVA, BVA, RCVS, VDS, heads of vet school equine departments, major equine veterinary practices and survey authors.

Together, they will now explore how improved reporting could help to develop practical measures to reduce the risk of serious and fatal injuries.

Recent work by the UK thoroughbred industry to implement safer working practices may be used to help draw up guidelines for equine vets.

Speaking at BEVA's recent congress, new president Mark Bowen said: "There is a clear need to establish safer systems of work and education of the profession and other animal handlers."

A key part of this, he added, is the training of veterinary students and newly-qualified equine vets.

"This will help ensure they are aware of the most risky procedures and the methods they should emily to remain safe as reasonably practicable while working with horses."

Key results from the survey of work-related injuries showed that, during a 30-year working life, equine vets could expect to sustain an average of seven to eight injuries that prevented them from practising.

The most common injuries were bruising, fractures and lacerations, with the leg being the most common injury site, followed by the head. A kick with a hind limb was the main cause of injury.

Nearly a quarter of the injuries reported required hospital treatment and, significantly, 7 per cent resulted in loss of consciousness.

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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  

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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.