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Warning issued over eye exposure to ear drops
EMA said veterinary surgeons should advise pet owners to take care when applying Osurnia.
Reports of eye injuries in people and pets after accidental exposure 

The European Medicines Agency has issued a warning about accidental exposure to Osurnia ear gel for dogs, after a number of pets and owners suffered eye injuries.

Injuries reported in people include two cases of corneal ulcers, as well as complaints of eye irritation, conjunctivitis, redness, during, stinging and itchiness. In dogs, there were reports of corneal ulcers, squinting, impaired vision, conjunctivitis, redness and swelling around the eye.

Eye exposure in humans largely occurred when the dog shook its head during or just after the medication was applied to the ear.

Veterinary professionals will be informed about this issue in writing and are being encouraged to report any suspected side effects to the relevant national authority, or the manufacturer of Osurnia, Elanco Europe Ltd.

EMA said veterinary surgeons should advise pet owners to take care when applying Osurnia, taking appropriate measures to ensure the product does not contact the eyes of people or dogs. This includes restraining the animal’s head while the medicine is applied.

If accidental exposure does occur, rinse the eyes thoroughly with water for 10-15 minutes and seek medical care.

Pet owners should also monitor dogs treated with the product and contact their vet if they notice any side effects, particularly those affecting the eyes.

EMA says it will continue to monitor the safety of the medicine and will take regulatory action as appropriate.

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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.