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What the microchipping law means for nurses
microchip
New microchipping rules are coming into force on 6 April, 2016.
BVNA issues statement clarifying the nurse's role

On 6 April, 2016, dog microchipping will become compulsory in England, Scotland and Wales. In advance of the new law, some changes have already been made to the rules on implanting. To help ensure nurses are up-to-speed, BVNA has issued a statement.

New government regulations came into force on 24 February, 2015. They state that no person may implant a microchip in a dog unless:
  • They are a veterinary surgeon, or, a veterinary nurse acting under the direction of a veterinary surgeon
  • They are a vet student or vet nursing student acting under the direction of a veterinary surgeon
  • They have successfully completed a training course approved by the secretary of state
  • They received training on implantation (including practical experience of implanting a microchip) prior to the date on which these regulations came into force
Should RVNs wish to microchip dogs independently (as a side business or for a voluntary organisation, for example), they must first be satisfactorily assessed on an approved training course, such as that provided by LANTRA or Vetskill.

The current veterinary nursing qualification and occupational standards do not go into the same depth of knowledge and understanding as the new qualification, therefore VN training alone is not considered sufficient under the new rules.

BVNA reminds RVNs that in order to be deemed competent by the RCVS code of conduct, they must be able to provide evidence of the microchip training they have attended, or they should update their skills.

It also stresses that RVNs are regulated and accountable professionals; any individual who does not feel competent should not undertake microchipping without further training.

For more information from the BVNA, visit: http://www.bvna.org.uk/advice/bvna-position-statements

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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.