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RVC neurology professor appointed QMHA Clinical Director
Dr De Decker will lead one of the world’s largest and most advanced veterinary hospitals.
Dr Steven De Decker will support one of the world’s leading veterinary hospitals.

Dr Steven De Decker has taken up the role of Clinical Director for the Small Animal Referrals Service at the RVC’s Queen Mother Hospital for Animals (QMHA).

A Professor in Neurology and Neurosurgery at the RVC, Dr De Decker will lead one of the world’s largest and most advanced veterinary hospitals.

In his new role, he will work closely with QMHA leadership and clinical teams to support the hospital’s continued development and delivery of specialist care.

Commenting on his appointment, Dr De Decker said: “It is an enormous privilege to take up the role of Clinical Director. While the RVC is at the forefront of clinical service and innovation, it is also a warm, welcoming and empathic place. I look forward to contributing to the further development and growth of the QMHA and its community.”

The QMHA is one of the world’s leading veterinary hospitals, featuring advanced diagnostic and surgical technology, the UK’s largest team of board-certified specialists, and Europe’s only recognised Level 1 Trauma Centre.

As a not-for-profit teaching hospital, clinicians have access to the latest clinical data and advanced equipment, with its specialists leading vital research and care in their relevant fields.

Dr De Decker graduated from Ghent University in 2005 and completed a PhD on the diagnosis and treatment of disc-associated cervical spondylomyelopathy (or wobbler syndrome) in dogs.

He became Head of the Neurology and Neurosurgery service at the QMHA in 2016, with research interests focused on spinal cord disorders, neurosurgery and clinical reasoning in dogs and cats.

Outside of his clinical role, Dr De Decker frequently delivers CPD at a national and international level. He is the Past-President of the British Veterinary Neurology Society and the current Chair of the Education Committee of the European College of Veterinary Neurology.

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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. 

Click here for more...
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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.