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BSAVA publishes new reptile welfare leaflets
(rested geckos are among the species covered by the leaflets.
The leaflets provide welfare advice to would-be owners.

The British Small Animal Veterinary Association (BSAVA) has published a new series of client information leaflets on caring for pet reptiles.

The leaflets give would-be owners key information on how to meet reptiles’ welfare needs through appropriate housing, feeding, handling and medication, as well as tips on how to spot health problems.

The content is based on information from the BSAVA Manual of Reptiles and has been reviewed by Simon Girling, head of veterinary services at the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland.

The initial run of leaflets covers the species which are most commonly kept as pets:
    • Bearded dragons
    • Crested geckos
    • Leopard geckos
    • Iguanas
    • Snakes
    • Tortoises
    • Terrapins.

As terrapins can no longer be legally bought in the UK, due to being designated an invasive species, the leaflet about them focuses on care and welfare advice for people who already own them.

The new series has been published at a time when data suggests that the number of people keeping pet reptiles in the UK is increasing.

Pet Food’s annual survey of UK pet ownership found that around five per cent of households owned a pet reptile in 2023, an increase from 3.4 per cent in 2022.

The new leaflets are available to download and print through the BSAVA Library. They are free for BSAVA members. Non-members can pay for a subscription to the library.

Image © Shutterstock

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Vetlife nominated for campaign award

News Story 1
 Vetlife has been shortlisted for the Association of Charity Organisations (ACO) Campaign of the Year Award 2024.

The nomination recognises its campaigning to raise awareness of neurodiversity within the profession and produce resources for individuals and workplaces. Vetlife's campaign has included talks, lived experience blogs, and an awareness video.

Kirstie Pickles, Vetlife trustee and project lead, said: "I am thrilled and delighted that the Vetlife neurodiversity awareness campaign has been shortlisted for the ACO Campaign of the Year Award 2024"

The winner will be announced 12 September 2024. 

Click here for more...
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.