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: 11th January 2023
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

Guinea pig welfare improving, vets say
"We're really proud of the positive difference that GPAW is making just two years after launching the campaign" - Dr Moyes.
Survey suggests positive impact of GPAW initiative.

A survey conducted by the organisers of Guinea Pig Awareness Week (GPAW) has revealed that 82 per cent of veterinary professionals believe that guinea pig welfare in the UK is improving.

GPAW, which took place for the second year running from 26 – 30 September 2022 is a campaign that highlights the welfare needs of guinea pigs, and veterinary professionals and owners alike are encouraged to get involved.

In 2022, the theme was 'Home Squeak Home', focusing on the importance of providing a safe and enriching environment. 

Of the veterinary professionals surveyed, 93 per cent stated that GPAW has had a positive impact on guinea pig care in the UK.

Dr Suzanne Moyes, a veterinary surgeon involved with the organisation of GPAW, said: “Responsible pet ownership is really important to Burgess Pet Care and it is so encouraging that 93% of veterinary professionals believe that GPAW has had a positive impact on guinea pig care. 

“It was also fantastic to learn that 100% of owners we surveyed believe that the campaign will have a positive impact on guinea pig welfare.”

The 2022 event saw initiatives to help owners create suitable indoor and outdoor housing, including how to adapt guinea pig housing for the changing seasons. Delivered via educational videos, live streams and Q and A sessions, GPAW 2022 was welcomed by the professions, with 38 per cent of veterinary professionals stating that housing was the most neglected welfare need among the species.

“There’s always more we can do to enable guinea pig owners to understand – and meet - the very specific welfare needs of these gorgeous, intelligent creatures, but we’re really proud of the positive difference that GPAW is making just two years after launching the campaign.”

Set to return in 2023, GPAW is supported by the RSPCA, Blue Cross and Woodgreen Pets Charity. Veterinary practices are encouraged to visit the GPAW website, where they can sign up to receive notifications about GPAW's next campaign. 

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

Animal Medicines Amnesty returns this November

News Story 1
 Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty.

Organised by the Responsible Use of Medicines Alliance Companion Animal and Equine (RUMA CA&E), the initative is supported by a range of cross-sector organisations.

Practices are encouraged to use the campaign to engage the whole practice team and raise awareness of the safe disposal of medicines with clients. Learn how your practice can get involved at rumacae.org.uk 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
APHA launches free virtual work experience programme

The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), in collaboration with Springpod, has launched a free virtual work experience programme, giving young people across the UK the chance to explore careers dedicated to protecting animal and plant health.

The on-demand programme offers a unique insight into career opportunities within APHA, showcasing how students can contribute to tackling some of the UK's most critical biosecurity and environmental challenges.

Designed for students aged 13 and over, the course includes more than 10 hours of engaging content featuring real-life industry insights, scenario-based challenges, and practical guidance on applying for jobs. To register for the course, visit the APHA website.