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Standards for equine dental treatment
National Occupational Standards set for equine dentists

The British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA) and the British Association of Equine Dental Technicians (BAEDT) have set regular standards for equine dental treatment.

National Occupational Standards (NOS) for equine dental treatment will make it safer and easier for owners to source the most suitable dental treatment for their horses.

The two associations have worked alongside other organisations, including the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS), British Veterinary Association (BVA), the WorldWide Association of Equine Dentistry (WWAED) and Lantra to develop the standards.

Under the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 (VSA), all equine dental care currently should only be carried out by veterinary surgeons. However, the new NOS will allow equine dental technicians the freedom to work within the law under an Exemption Order.

It is hoped that the NOS will be formalised by Lantra in early 2013.

BEVA President Keith Chandler said: "After many years of working closely with the BAEDT on the continuing education and qualification of its members, we are thrilled that progress is finally being made towards an Exemption Order."

Martin Brookes, equine dental technician and member of WWAED, said: "This will be a really important step forward for responsible equine dental technicians. It will further improve the working relationships between [equine dental technicians] and vets and help to protect the welfare of the horse."

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Birmingham Dogs Home makes urgent appeal

News Story 1
 Birmingham Dogs Home has issued an urgent winter appeal as it faces more challenges over the Christmas period.

The rescue centre has seen a dramatic increase in dogs coming into its care, and is currently caring for over 200 dogs. With rising costs and dropping temperatures, the charity is calling for urgent support.

It costs the charity £6,000 per day to continue its work.

Fi Harrison, head of fundraising and communications, said: "It's heart-breaking for our team to see the conditions some dogs arrive in. We really are their last chance and hope of survival."

More information about the appeal can be found here

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News Shorts
Avian flu confirmed at premises in Cornwall

A case of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been detected in commercial poultry at a premises near Rosudgeon, Cornwall.

All poultry on the infected site will be humanely culled, and a 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone have been put in place. Poultry and other captive birds in the 3km protection zone must be housed.

The case is the second avian flu case confirmed in commercial poultry this month. The H5N5 strain was detected in a premises near Hornsea, East Riding of Yorkshire, in early November. Before then, the disease had not been confirmed in captive birds in England since February.

The UK chief veterinary officer has urged bird keepers to remain alert and practise robust biosecurity.

A map of the disease control zones can be found here.