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Introduction of welfare case toolkit
Caroline Allen

BEVA launches one-stop shop to help navigate equine welfare cases

A practical ‘welfare case toolkit’ has been developed in conjunction with the RSPCA and includes a welfare workflow and quick download guides and welfare case forms.

Being called out to a welfare case to assess immediate veterinary needs is part of an ambulatory vet’s role and he or she may also be required to act as a witness.

“Welfare assessments can sometimes be intimidating and it’s natural to feel vulnerable, particularly when circumstances are difficult”, said Merry Smith, BEVA council member who led the project on behalf of BEVA. “Our new ‘Welfare Case Toolkit’ gives you access to the information and resources, even when you are on the road, to support you in dealing with a welfare case.”

The interactive ‘Welfare Workflow’ provides a step-by-step guide to what happens when a vet is called upon to provide an opinion on the health and welfare of the animals involved. It has been produced in a mobile-friendly format or can be printed out and kept in the car. Supporting the ‘Workflow’ is a series of quick downloads, covering all aspects of the process:

  • approach to the welfare case
  • letter of instruction
  • Section 18 of the Animal Welfare Act (2006) certificate
  • witness details sheet
  • witness statement form
  • RSPCA vet examination form
  • guidance notes on how to complete a vet examination welfare case form

Caroline Allen, chief veterinary officer at the RSPCA said: "Vets are absolutely critical to the work of the RSPCA and while we know many vets get a lot of satisfaction from this work saving animals from cruelty and suffering, we know that this work can sometimes be daunting and the law confusing. We are delighted to have worked with BEVA on providing this guidance and hope it is the first step in us providing more support to vets doing this vital work – we literally couldn't do it without you.”

The Welfare Case Toolkit is available free to BEVA members.

 

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

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.