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BSAVA publishes new reptile welfare leaflets
(rested geckos are among the species covered by the leaflets.
The leaflets provide welfare advice to would-be owners.

The British Small Animal Veterinary Association (BSAVA) has published a new series of client information leaflets on caring for pet reptiles.

The leaflets give would-be owners key information on how to meet reptiles’ welfare needs through appropriate housing, feeding, handling and medication, as well as tips on how to spot health problems.

The content is based on information from the BSAVA Manual of Reptiles and has been reviewed by Simon Girling, head of veterinary services at the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland.

The initial run of leaflets covers the species which are most commonly kept as pets:
    • Bearded dragons
    • Crested geckos
    • Leopard geckos
    • Iguanas
    • Snakes
    • Tortoises
    • Terrapins.

As terrapins can no longer be legally bought in the UK, due to being designated an invasive species, the leaflet about them focuses on care and welfare advice for people who already own them.

The new series has been published at a time when data suggests that the number of people keeping pet reptiles in the UK is increasing.

Pet Food’s annual survey of UK pet ownership found that around five per cent of households owned a pet reptile in 2023, an increase from 3.4 per cent in 2022.

The new leaflets are available to download and print through the BSAVA Library. They are free for BSAVA members. Non-members can pay for a subscription to the library.

Image © Shutterstock

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Survey launched to investigate EHV

News Story 1
 Zoetis has launched a new survey to identify management techniques for Equine Herpes Virus (EHV).

EHV is a contagious, airborne virus that can cause respiratory problems and severe diseases in horses and ponies. It spreads among horses over short distances, direct contact and through shared equipment.

The survey will explore current knowledge and management practices with EHV in the UK. It is quick to complete and participants could win one of 10 equine first aid kits.

Complete the survey here

Click here for more...
News Shorts
WSAVA launches pet travel guidance factsheet

A new pet travel guidance factsheet for veterinary professionals and caregivers has been developed by the WSAVA in collaboration with the World Veterinary Association.

The Dog and Cat Welfare During Transport factsheet provides step-by-step guidance for all stages of a journey, from pre-travel checklists to post-travel care.

Brachycephalic breeds or animals prone to travel-related anxiety are given special focus in this guide, which also provides links to IATA container regulation and WSAVA vaccination guidelines.