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: 27th March 2018
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

Vets issue chocolate warning to pet owners
The majority of vets still see urgent cases of chocolate poisoning over the Easter period.
One in eight vets treated five or more cases over Easter 2017

The BVA has issued a warning to pet owners about storing chocolate safely, as new figures show that 62 per cent of vets saw at least one case of chocolate poisoning over the Easter holidays last year.

The organisation’s Voice of the Veterinary Profession Survey found that the majority of vets still see urgent cases over the Easter period because chocolate treats have not been kept out of reach. Whilst most vets saw an average of two cases of chocolate poisoning, an average of one in eight treated five or more cases - more than double the figure reported over the previous two years.

Commenting on the findings, BVA president John Fishwick said: “Easter is a time of great fun for the whole family, but chocolate treats meant for humans can be poisonous for our pets. Dogs, in particular, have a keen sense of smell and can easily sniff out sweet treats, so make sure any chocolate goodies are stored securely out of reach of inquisitive noses to avoid an emergency trip to the vet.”

He continued: “If you suspect that your dog has eaten chocolate, don’t delay in contacting your local vet. The quicker the animal gets veterinary advice and treatment, the better. Your vet will want to know how much chocolate your dog has eaten and what type. If possible, keep any labels and have the weight of the dog to hand.”

BVA’s Voice of the Veterinary Profession survey is a bi-annual survey of vets drawn from BVA members. It captures the profession’s views and experiences by asking questions about animals health and welfare, public health and trends in the veterinary practice.

The May 2017 Voice of the Veterinary Profession Survey asked 372 vets across the UK if they saw any cases of chocolate poisoning in companion animals over the 2017 Easter holidays.

Information for owners on pets and poisons can be found at www.bva-awf.org.uk/pet-care-advice/pets-and-poisons

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

Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

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.