Tapeworm Freedom
The European Union and UK Veterinary Profession are in agreement that controls for tapeworm (Echinoccus Multicularis (EM) need to be maintained. Consequently, the European Commission has formed a regulation that will permit pre-movement treatment for dogs travelling between the UK, Ireland, Finland and Malta.
Despite Defra’s changes to European pet travel rules, which adds further protection against rabies, ticks and tapeworms, there is still a significant public health risk regarding EM tapeworms. As BVA President Harvey Locke, explains:
“In our role as guardians of public health, vets were deeply concerned that the removal of tapeworm controls would see the introduction of EM tapeworm to the UK and Ireland. Although relatively benign in dogs, the resulting disease in humans – alveolar echinococcosis – is an invasive, cancer-lie cystic stage of the parasite, and is invariably fatal if not treated.”
Thus, the BVA and BSAVA have been working with Defra to urge the European Commission to focus on controls specifically aimed at controlling tapeworms. The commission’s regulation ensures that dogs must be treated by a veterinary surgeon 24 – 120 hours (1-5 days) before entering the partnered countries. The BVA did stress there was scientific support that the window for treatment need only be 24-48 hours, but they accepted the commission's compromise as it does prevent pet owners from getting treatment at the last minute.
Both the BVA and BSAVA were ‘delighted’ that the European Commission had reached a stable resolution. Andrew Ash, President of BSAVA stated they will continue to follow this issue, and gave an important reminder to pet owners:
“The BVA and BSAVA will continue to promote the best possible health and welfare advice for pet owners taking their animals abroad. Our advice to owners is to speak to a vet as early as possible to make sure pets are protected from all diseases and parasites encountered abroad.”
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. 
