Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 11th April 2017
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

VPIS launches new helpline for pet owners
Nicola Robinson said owners will not be advised on treatment, but will be told whether or not they need to see a vet and how urgently.
Triage service Animal PoisonLine introduced at BSAVA Congress
 
The Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS) has announced the official launch of a new helpline for pet owners.

Animal PoisonLine is a triage service that tells owners whether or not a trip to the vets is necessary when their pet has been exposed to something potentially poisonous. It was introduced by VPIS head of service, Nicola Robinson, during a press briefing at BSAVA Congress last week, and opened officially on Monday (10 April).

VPIS first established the helpline as part of a pilot scheme back in September 2016. The line is now available 24 hours a day at a cost of £20 from 8am-8pm Monday to Friday (excluding bank holidays) and £30 outside of these hours.

Nicola Robinson said owners will not be advised on treatment, but will be told whether or not they need to see a vet and how urgently. Experience gained from the pilot suggests that in around 50 per cent of cases, owners will not need to go to their vet.

She said the VPIS had concerns about pet owners using Google to determine if a substance is toxic, and felt that a specific service was needed to provide owners with accurate advice and reassurance. Animal PoisonLine may also help vets to use their VPIS credits more appropriately if owners seek advice from the VPIS first, she added.

Vets should continue to use the normal VPIS number, 0207 3055 055, for poisoning cases and admin enquiries, while owners can be directed to the Animal PoisonLine number, 01202 509 000.

For further information visit: https://vpisglobal.com/2016/08/23/vpis-public-helpline/

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Vets launch new podcast for pet owners

News Story 1
 Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.

The venture, called Vets Talking Pets, provides advice and information on a range of topics, including how to select a suitable pet, where to obtain them and how to get the best out of your vet. Maggie and Vanessa will also discuss sensitive subjects, including end-of-life care, raw food diets and the cost of veterinary care.

The podcast can be found on all the usual podcast sites, including Podbean, Apple, Amazon Music and YouTube. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
BSAVA announces 12th Edition of the Small Animal Formulary

The BSAVA has published an updated edition of its Small Animal Formulary, which includes new drug monographs and emergency drug doses for rabbits, rodents, birds and reptiles.

One of BSAVA's most trusted and widely used clinical resources, this 12th edition of the manual also includes seven new client information leaflets and information on drugs used for the management of urinary incontinence.

Part A of the Formulary, Canine and Feline, sees Fergus Allerton return as Editor-in-Chief, while Part B: Exotic Pets was edited by Joanna Hedley. For more information, visit the BSAVA website.