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AHT announces proposal to close referral clinics
"We must make difficult decisions to create a possible future for the AHT" - Steve Shore, AHT Trustee.
Charity to revert to core purpose of veterinary and scientific research. 

The Animal Health Trust (AHT) has announced a proposal to close its small animal and equine referral clinics in a bid to secure its future success.

In March 2020, the charity announced that it was facing closure following a period of 'dire financial constraint' and with the economic impact of COVID-19 having a direct effect on funding and operations. Since then, the Trustees and Executive Committee have been working to save the unique work undertaken at the Trust.

In its latest update, the AHT said that if the charity is to continue, the 'only viable option is for it to revert to its core purpose of providing world-renowned veterinary and scientific research'. As a result, and subject to consideration, the Trustees are proposing to close the AHT’s small animal and equine referral clinics.

AHT Trustee Steve Shore explains: “The work at the Animal Health Trust is truly unique and being told that the referral clinics could be closing and there is no longer a job for you is a terrible prospect and especially difficult for our teams of dedicated vets, nurses and support staff all of whom take so much pride and care in looking after their patients and owners. But we must make difficult decisions to create a possible future for the AHT.

“We also need to do this right, which means we will work closely with our employees and representatives, as appropriate and going through a formal consultation process with everyone affected.

He continued: “The Animal Health Trust was founded nearly 80 years ago by Dr W Reg Wooldridge who wanted the charity to promote veterinary research and prevent suffering in companion animals. The Trustees believe in making this difficult decision the AHT will continue to have this vision at its heart and will give it the best chance of future success.”

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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...
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Lords Committee opens Pet Parasite Medication inquiry

The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee will launch its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medication (PPM) on Wednesday (3 June).

Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.