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Technicians push to be renamed 'veterinary nurses'
vet nurse
NAVTA wants to see the title 'veterinary nurse' used in all 50 states, as it is in the UK and Australia.
Current system causing confusion among public and profession

Veterinary technicians in the US could see their titles changed to 'veterinary nurse' in the next decade. There are also plans to bring in a national standard for credentialing.

The National Association of Veterinary Technicians (NAVTA) in America says the current system - which varies from state to state - has 'led to confusion for the veterinary consumer and within the veterinary profession'.

In some states there is effectively no distinction between credentialed veterinary technicians and non-credentialed. Those that are credentialed will typically have completed a two or four-year programme accredited by the AVMA and will have completed a national exam.

NAVTA wants to see the title 'veterinary nurse' used in all 50 states, as it is in the UK and Australia, as well as a national standard for the maintenance of credentials.

'Establishing a single and standard title is the first step in the process to clarify the important role of the profession and provide enhanced patient care,' it said in a statement. 'Pets and pet owners are best protected and cared for by formally trained and credentialed veterinary nurses.'

The process is expected to take five to 10 years to implement. Over the coming year, NAVTA will consider the best options and consult with relevant professional and legal organisations. It will then develop a strategic plan based on the feedback.

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Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

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News Shorts
Lords Committee opens Pet Parasite Medication inquiry

The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee will launch its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medication (PPM) on Wednesday (3 June).

Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.