Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 24th March 2020
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

How to reduce face-to-face contact in veterinary practices
Alternative methods of communication can be used to carry out consultations and triage.

Social distancing for veterinary teams

Current government advice states that veterinary practices must reduce face to face contact immediately, in order to reduce transmission of COVID-19. This article covers several methods of introducing social distancing measures in practice, whilst continuing to provide veterinary care.

Alternative communication methods

Use of technology, such as video or telephone calls, can be used to carry out certain consultations remotely. This also offers an alternative mode of working from home for veterinary surgeons.

Additionally, web tools – such as online chat support – emails and text messages can be used to maintain effective communication. Clients can be asked to send photos of their pets using these platforms, to aid in examinations and triage.

Limiting footfall in practice

If a client needs to visit the practice, social distancing can be maintained by requesting that only one person accompanies an animal per appointment, as well as by asking clients to wait in their cars, allowing staff to bring animals into the building for examination.

Clients can also be asked to wait in the carpark to collect prescriptions. Or these could be posted to the client's home.

If you have any suggestions on how to further reduce face to face contact in veterinary practices, please email editor@mrcvs.co.uk

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
BSAVA publishes fifth Manual of Canine and Feline Neurology

The BSAVA has published the fifth edition of its BSAVA Manual of Canine and Feline Neurology.

The new edition has been reviewed and updated, including new developments in diagnostics, therapeutic approaches and clinical decision-making. It is structured to support clinicians through diagnosis, treatment and long-term management.

The guide features five new chapters covering acute myelopathies, chronic myelopathies, emergency protocols, neurotoxicology and neuro-oncology.

It also includes over 100 videos, including demonstrations of neurological examinations, clinical presentations and diagnostic procedures.

Nicola Lloyd, publishing manager, said: "Whether you're a general practitioner seeking practical guidance, or a specialist aiming to refine your expertise, this edition remains an indispensable reference for anyone involved in the care of neurologically compromised dogs and cats."