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National Pet Month gets underway
The theme of this year's event is Pets and People: Caring for Each Other.
Event will focus on the five pet welfare needs. 

As National Pet Month gets underway (April 1 – May 3), the National Office for Animal Health (NOAH) is calling on veterinary professionals to support each other as the nation slowly eases out of lockdown. 

This year’s campaign focuses on the five animal welfare needs and the physical and mental health benefits of pets, as well as the tireless work of the veterinary profession throughout the pandemic. 

NOAH chief executive, Dawn Howard, said: “In these challenging times, it’s so important for us to support each other as well as pet owners and the animals in our care. 

“Focusing on the five pet welfare needs of Companionship, Behaviour, Diet, Health and Environment, the positive impact of pets on our health and the dedication of our veterinary colleagues, and other pet professionals is a firm foundation for our campaign.”

The theme of this year’s event is ‘Pets and People: Caring for Each Other’ - and practices are being urged to share the hashtags #NationalPetMonth21 or #NPM21 on their social media posts, tagging National Pet Month and other relevant organisations. 

The campaign will explore the unique challenges of returning to work, including tips on developing pet-friendly office policies. With pet obesity on the rise, organisers will also provide advice and support to ensure pets are eating well throughout their lifetimes. 

Vaccinations, worming, and other vital care from veterinary professionals will go under the spotlight, with tips and advice for owners to help keep their animals happy and healthy. 

The final week of National Pet Month will highlight efforts to change policy and make pet-friendly rental accommodation the norm, as well as offer advice to new and young pet owners who might be struggling.

A National Pet Month spokesperson said: “National Pet Month is all about collaboration and engagement – working together to celebrate our pets and make their lives better. If you’re planning on creating social content around these five key areas, please tag us in on social media so we can spread the responsible pet ownership message together.”

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BEVA gives RVNs right to vote

News Story 1
 The British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA) is to allow its registered veterinary nurse (RVN) members the right to vote.

RVN members will now be able to take part in key decision-making processes and stand for BEVA council.

Marie Rippingale, chair of BEVA's Nurse Committee, said: "I am very proud to be a part of BEVA.

"This change will help to empower nurses to speak up and contribute, but more importantly, it will give them an opportunity to collaborate with other members of the equine veterinary profession to bring about change that is positive for all." 

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News Shorts
Northern Ireland chief vet warns of bluetongue risk

Following the detection of bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) in England, Northern Ireland's chief veterinary officer has urged farmers to remain vigilant and source animals responsibly.

Brian Dooher said: "This confirmation in England is a stark reminder of the threat bluetongue presents to Northern Ireland.Whilst this finding in Norfolk is disappointing it is not unexpected giving the rising level of disease across several countries in Europe. Bluetongue does not affect human health or food safety, however an incursion to Northern Ireland would have a significant impact on livestock and the rural economy.

"I would like to remind all farmers of the importance of sourcing animals responsibly and ask that they maintain vigilance for signs of the disease reporting any suspicions to DAERA immediately."

Suspected cases of BTV-3 in Northern Ireland should be reported to the DAERA Helpline on 0300 200 7840 or by contacting the local DAERA Direct Veterinary Office.