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Bustling congress winds down
BVNA's 40th annual event draws to a close

An event which has been both inspirational and educational, this year's BVNA Congress - now in its 40th year - has championed the role of the veterinary nurse, as well as providing top quality CPD.

Delegates at this year's bustling event have enjoyed a fantastic and varied scientific programme, covering everything from management to research and critical care.

On top of this, the congress has provided the opportunity to catch up with the latest veterinary products on the market, and network with other veterinary nurses and members of the profession in a relaxed but vibrant setting.

A keynote speech by James Yeates, the chief veterinary officer at the RSPCA, underlined the role that nurses have to play in the development of the veterinary profession as a whole.

In particular, he championed the empathy and communication that veterinary nurses can build with clients, making them a valuable asset when it comes to euthanasia discussions and cases of domestic abuse, for example.

Furthermore, this year's congress saw a number of veterinary nurses honoured for their extraordinary contribution to the profession and excellent client care, with Sarah Reed crowned this year's Veterinary Nurse of the Year.

Lectures throughout the three-day event have covered key topical issues, including recognising and dealing with pet obesity, emerging equine diseases, mental health and addictions in the veterinary profession and a talk on the future of the Practice Standards Scheme, given by RCVS vice-president Jacqui Molyneux.

Yet another hugely successful congress was concluded today with the BVNA's annual general meeting (AGM), which saw junior vice-president Kirstie Shield welcomed as incoming president.

Delegates are now starting to filter off to the final lectures of the day and exhibitors will soon begin the process of packing up and heading home. Having gained truly high quality CPD hours over the past three days, it is safe to say that this year's event will remain in the minds of delegates for many months to come.

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.