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Study seeks autistic farm and equine vets
Farm and equine veterinary surgeons have been underrepresented in the study so far.
The study explores workplace stressors affecting autistic vets.

A study from the University of Nottingham exploring workplace stressors affecting autistic veterinary professionals is seeking autistic farm and equine veterinary surgeons to participate.

Led by Dr Kirstie Pickles and Mr Brad Hill, the study is exploring the workplace stressors affecting autistic veterinary surgeons, with an aim to inform the design and implementation of reasonable workplace adjustments. 

Dr Kirstie Pickles, lead researcher on the project, commented: “Currently, 14 vets have been interviewed for the critical incident study and common themes surrounding ‘good’ and ‘difficult’ days are beginning to emerge.

“However, farm and equine veterinary surgeon participants have been under-represented to date and, to ensure that conclusions drawn are applicable to all vets not just those in companion animal practice, we are keen to interview more large animal practitioners.”

Funded by one of the Mind Matters Initiative's Sarah Brown Mental Health Research Fund's grants, the study involves a critical incident study, interviewing autistic veterinary surgeons to identify behaviours and factors that go into a 'good' or 'difficult' day at work, and then a cross-sectional survey will be administered to the wider population of autistic veterinary surgeons to assess role-specific job stressors. 

Kirstie added: “The interviews are conducted via video call on Microsoft Teams or via phone call and take approximately 30 to 40 minutes. 

“The study has undergone ethical review at the University of Nottingham and all data will be anonymised and treated confidentially.”

Any veterinary surgeons interested in participating in the study should contact Kirstie at Kirstie.pickles@nottingham.ac.uk 

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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.