Be aware of struggling vets and farmers
Image: Peter Jones
The President of the BVA, Peter Jones, has issued a statement reminding the profession that vets as well as farmers could be suffering as a result of the ongoing cold weather.
Mr Jones has asked members to be aware of the needs of veterinary and farming colleagues who could be struggling with isolation and the effects of the weather conditions on UK farms.
In such harsh conditions, Mr Jones reminded members that it is not only the farmer that suffers. He said: "The relationship between a vet and his/her farming clients is so close - when a farm is struggling, the vet feels it too."
He added: "We have all seen the terrible news stories about the impact of the cold weather on farms, with large numbers of lost stock.
"It's important that we remember the people at the heart of those stories - the farmers and vets dealing with the consequences, both financially and emotionally."
The association has urged its members to keep the details of veterinary and farming helplines close by, and perhaps even donate to independent charities in need of support.
The Vet Helpline and the Farm Crisis Network Helpline were recommended as sources of immediate help, alongside a number of other charities, such as the Addington Fund, RABI, the Veterinary Benevolent Fund (VBF) and the Samaritans.
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
