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New standards for equine dental technicians
Tooth care standards to come into force next month

New standards coming into force in February aim to transfer some tooth care from the vet to equine dental technicians (EDTs).

Currently all dental work except basic tooth rasping should only be carried out by vets according to the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966. In reality however, EDTs undertake a large amount of dental work with the agreement of the British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA).

The new standards will help horse owners decide who to contact in order to care for their horses' teeth. Gemma Lilly, chairman of the British Association of Equine Dental Technicians (BAEDT) said: "It's good news for EDTs, owners and horses."

The national occupation standards have been drawn up with training organisation Lantra, and will clarify those procedures that can be carried out by a qualified EDT, and those that must be carried out only by a vet. The standards will also define the qualifications required by EDTs.

BEVA president Keith Chandler said: “There is a misconception that vets want to stop dental technicians from undertaking tooth care, but this could not be further from the truth.

“We and the British Association of Equine Dental Technicians [BAEDT] have been working for a number of years with Defra to create an exemption from the Act for suitably qualified EDTs.”

Mr Chandler concluded that he believes the exemption will be achieved within two years.

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.