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BSAVA Congress News Archive
Pink MiniChip launched at BSAVA
10th April 2013
A new microchip was launched at BSAVA Congress, which is 60 per cent smaller than standard chips. The Pink MiniChip from Pet Protect is less invasive and particularly suited to kittens, puppies and smaller breeds. With every chip sold the company is making a donation to breast cancer charity The Pink Ribbon Foundation. Pet Protect also offer free registration and 6 weeks free insurance.
RCVS clinical governance session
2nd April 2013
The RCVS ran a session on clinical governance at the BSAVA congress. Entitled "Clinical governance, how is it relevant to me?" the session took place on Saturday 6 April at 11:05am in Hall 7a of the ICC. The aim was to untangle what clinical governance means, giving examples how practices can meet requirements.
Hamster found during blizzard on Edinburgh street
22nd March 2013
A hamster has been rescued and is now in the care of the Scottish SPCA after it was found in the middle of an Edinburgh street during a blizzard. The female Syrian hamster was spotted by a member of the public and is now recovering at the SPCA's Edinburgh and Lothian's animal rescue. It thought that the one-year-old hamster escaped her home by accident, though the rescue centre is not ruling out that she may have been abandoned.
Bovine TB still rising
15th March 2013
According to the latest Defra figures, the number of cattle slaughtered in the UK as reactors or direct contacts has risen by 10 per cent to 37,753 in 2012. The number of farms tested has also increased by nearly 18 per cent due to new measures that have been put in place.
RCVS elect new vice-president
15th March 2013
Professor Stuart Reid has been elected the next vice-president of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS). Currently the college's principal, Prof Reid has been part of the council since 2005, and has also served on a variety of committees. Upon being elected, he said the opportunity to join a leadership role at a time when the profession at large faces so many changes is as exciting as it is daunting.
Animal-tested cosmetics banned in EU
13th March 2013
The European Union (EU) has banned the sale of new cosmetic products that have been tested on animals with immediate effect. It is now supporting investigations into alternative methods, following years of campaigning from animal welfare activists. The belief is that the development of cosmetics does not justify animal testing.
Top ten medicines poster dropped
12th March 2013
The Office of Fair Trading (OFT) has dropped the requirement for vet practices to display details of the top ten medicines they supply. The change is initially for a six-month period, following advice from the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS). No other changes have been made to the Code of Professional Conduct, where the requirement was laid down.
Bid to ban polar bear trade fails
8th March 2013
A US proposal to outlaw the trade in polar bear products has failed, it was announced yesterday. At the Cites meeting in Bangkok, 38 countries voted in favour of the US proposal to end the export of polar bear products from Canada, who are currently the only nation allowing this. 42 nations voted against the ban, and 46 abstained from voting. As a result the export of polar bear skins, teeth and paws from Canada will continue unabated.
Award for dedication to horses
7th March 2013
Actor Martin Clunes has received a special commendation for his dedication, hard work and determination to improve the lives of UK horses and inspire a passion in others to do the same.

He was presented the award by HRH The Princess Royal at the National Equine Forum (NEF), on behalf of Blue Cross, the British Horse Society, HorseWorld, Redwings, the RSPCA and World Horse Welfare.
Vet Charity Challenge 2013
6th March 2013
The 2013 Vet Charity Challenge is to take place on Saturday 28 September at Warwickshire College. The event comprises teams of four taking part in walking, running, cycling and kayaking.

The 2012 Challenge raised £21,000 which was shared between three animal charities, SPANA, Pet Blood Bank and Hounds for Heroes. Interested teams are invited to register their interest through the website.
SBV found in all English and Welsh counties
4th March 2013
The Schmallenberg virus (SBV), which causes deformities and stillbirths in livestock, has now been confirmed in all English and Welsh counties, as well as parts of Scotland. These cases equate to more than 1,500 farms in the UK, according to government figures. A possible vaccine is in the final stages of authorisation by the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD).
Oil rescue birds released in Dorset
1st March 2013
Four weeks after being found on the south coast of England coated in oil additive PIB, rescued birds are being released at sea in Dorset. Experts have already released 22 guillemots at Pett Level beach in East Sussex, and remaining birds are to be individually assessed, weighed and blood tested by vets before a decision is taken on which ones to release.

An investigation into the source of the substance has proved inconclusive, and it is now thought "unlikely" that the responsible ship will be traced. The RSPB has called for the substance to be reclassified and discharges outlawed.