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Vets warn of seasonal pet hazards
Many cats suffered toxic ingestion last Christmas.
Chocolate most common cause of toxic ingestion, survey finds

More than 80 per cent of vets saw at least one case of toxic ingestion in pets during the 2016 festive period, according to new figures. The findings have prompted the BVA to issue a warning to pet owners to watch out for potential hazards to their pets this Christmas.

According to BVA’s Voice of the Veterinary Profession survey, chocolate poisoning remains the most prevalent cause of toxic ingestion at Christmas for dogs. A staggering 74 per cent of vets reported that they saw at least one case during last year’s celebrations.

Furthermore, the figures show that there has also been a spike in raisin or sultana poisoning over the last two years. Of the 473 vets that completed the survey, 54 per cent reported treating a case.

“Many pet owners are aware of the risks of chocolate or other festive foods being toxic for their pets but, as our survey shows, it’s easy to be caught out by a kind gift left under the tree or a treat left out on the table, which curious animals can find hard to resist,” said BVA president John Fishwick.

“Our advice is for givers to tell, and owners to ask, if there is anything edible in gifts and to keep such presents safely out of reach of your pet. If you suspect your pet may have eaten something they shouldn’t, then don’t delay in contacting your local vet.”

The first of this year's Voice of the Veterinary Profession surveys was carried out in February. It asked companion animal vets if they saw any cases of toxic ingestion in companion animals over the festive period 2016.

The survey shows that many cats suffered toxic ingestion last Christmas, with a quarter of vets treating cats for antifreeze poisoning. Gift wrap, festive decorations and seasonal plants were other common reasons for pets finding themselves at the vets.

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Strangles survey seeks views of horse owners

News Story 1
 With Strangles Awareness Week just around the corner (5-11 May), vets are being encouraged to share a survey about the disease with their horse-owning clients.

The survey, which has been designed by Dechra, aims to raise awareness of Strangles and promote best practices to prevent its transmission. It includes questions about horse owners' experiences of strangles, together with preventative measures and vaccination.

Respondents to the survey will be entered into a prize draw to win two VIP tickets to Your Horse Live 2025. To access the survey, click here 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Vivienne Mackinnon elected BVA Scottish Branch President

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has elected Vivienne Mackinnon as its new BVA Scottish Branch president.

Dr Mackinnon has over 30 years of experience in veterinary care, encompassing both small animal and mixed practice. She has worked in practices in Scotland, England, New Zealand and Australia, before joining APHA to work in frontline disease control.

In her speech, Dr Mackinnon reflected on the changes in Scotland's veterinary industry and highlighted her commitment to veterinary education.

Dr Mackinnon said: "I look forward to working with colleagues across the veterinary professions to improve animal health and welfare in the country and support veterinary workplaces."