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Supporting pet owners during cancer treatment
One in five cats will experience cancer at some point in their lifetime.
Vicki Adams concludes oncology stream at BVNA Congress

One in three dogs and one in five cats will experience cancer at some point in their lifetime. That's according to Vicki Adams of the Animal Cancer Trust.

Wrapping up the first day of lectures at BVNA Congress in Telford, Ms Adams delivered an informative and interesting lecture on how to support owners during treatment of the pet with cancer.

She began by looking at what cancer is and how it is one of the most treatable of all the chronic diseases.

Describing the VNs role in how to support the pet with cancer, Vicki said the most important thing to remember is that you are not aiming for a cure, rather you are aiming to prolong the animal's life for as much as possible.

The VNs role, Vicki explained, is 'to support the patient, to support other pets at home, to support the owner and caregivers, and to support the veterinary team'.

She added that VNs should aim to help owners understand that the goal is to obtain a good quality of life.

VNs can also help owners by telling them what to expect during treatment, what the prognosis might be, explaining any potential side effects as well as any health and safety issues the owner should be aware of.

Useful resources: Withrow and MacEwen's 'Small Animal Clinical Oncology'
& 'Oncology for Veterinary Technicians and Nurses' by Anony S. Moore and Angela E. Frimberger

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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. 

Click here for more...
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.