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WSAVA launches new pain guidelines
The WSAVA's Global Pain Council launched the new Guidelines at World Congress 2022.

Updated format and information now available.

The World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) has launched its updated Global Guidelines for the Recognition, Assessment and Treatment of Pain at its annual World Congress.

Well-received by WSAVA association member representatives at the World Congress in Lima, Peru last month, the Guidelines have been published by the Journal of Small Animal Practice (JSAP), and are available to download for free from the WSAVA website.

Alongside the updated information, the Guidelines have an updated accessible format, with increased use of visuals and graphics, links provided to recommended tools and additional resources and videos linked for those wanting to expand further.

Incorporating advances in knowledge and new evidence on pain assessment, the new Guidelines particularly emphasise the use of pain scales for the assessment of acute and chronic pain in companion animals.

For managing pain, the Guidelines evaluate the performance of new drugs and non-drug therapies, including monoclonal antibodies and acupuncture.

Also stressed in the Guidelines is the consideration of euthanasia in cases where pain cannot be effectively managed and quality of life is poor.

WSAVA has also prioritised global relevance, with tiered protocols offered to guide veterinary surgeons with restricted access to analgesic drugs. The role of local anaesthetic techniques and non-drug therapies, as well as the importance of nursing and supportive care are highlighted to work around limitations.

Currently available in English, the Guidelines are currently being translated into Spanish, Portuguese, Chinese and other languages.

Image (C) WSAVA

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Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

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News Shorts
Lords Committee opens Pet Parasite Medication inquiry

The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee will launch its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medication (PPM) on Wednesday (3 June).

Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.