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Pet reptiles may be "reservoirs" of Campylobacter
bearded dragon
Scientists found 7.3 per cent of reptiles tested positive for fetus or hyointestinalis.
Scientists assess the risk of Campylobacter species to reptile owners

Scientists say the risk of Campylobacter infection should be considered by those keeping reptiles as companion animals.

Research published in the Veterinary Record (Vol 174 No 19) suggests pet reptiles could be potential reservoirs of Campylobacter fetus and C hyointestinalis  - and therefore may be a source of human infection.

Scientists from the University of Padua, Italy, collected 109 cloacal swabs from captive reptiles during 2011. Samples were taken from Chelonians, lizards and snakes kept in a zoo and a further 67 animals from private households in Northern Italy.

According to the report in Vet Record, 7.3 per cent of reptiles tested positive for the C fetus sub-species fetus, or C hyointestinalis sub-species hyointestinalis. All snakes tested negative.

These species are known to be pathogenic to people, and C fetus is reported to cause gastroenteritis, septicaemia and disseminated infections.

The report states that C hyointestinalis has been isolated from humans and animals and is known to cause gastroenteritis and septicaemia in humans.

Scientists say more research is needed to determine the distribution of the Campylobacter species, the rate of excretion in reptiles and the risk to humans.

To read the report, see Veterinary Record May 10, 2014, Vol 174 No 19, pp.479, Pet Reptiles as potential reservoirs of Campylobacter species with zoonotic potential

 

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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.