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Vets issue chocolate warning to pet owners
The majority of vets still see urgent cases of chocolate poisoning over the Easter period.
One in eight vets treated five or more cases over Easter 2017

The BVA has issued a warning to pet owners about storing chocolate safely, as new figures show that 62 per cent of vets saw at least one case of chocolate poisoning over the Easter holidays last year.

The organisation’s Voice of the Veterinary Profession Survey found that the majority of vets still see urgent cases over the Easter period because chocolate treats have not been kept out of reach. Whilst most vets saw an average of two cases of chocolate poisoning, an average of one in eight treated five or more cases - more than double the figure reported over the previous two years.

Commenting on the findings, BVA president John Fishwick said: “Easter is a time of great fun for the whole family, but chocolate treats meant for humans can be poisonous for our pets. Dogs, in particular, have a keen sense of smell and can easily sniff out sweet treats, so make sure any chocolate goodies are stored securely out of reach of inquisitive noses to avoid an emergency trip to the vet.”

He continued: “If you suspect that your dog has eaten chocolate, don’t delay in contacting your local vet. The quicker the animal gets veterinary advice and treatment, the better. Your vet will want to know how much chocolate your dog has eaten and what type. If possible, keep any labels and have the weight of the dog to hand.”

BVA’s Voice of the Veterinary Profession survey is a bi-annual survey of vets drawn from BVA members. It captures the profession’s views and experiences by asking questions about animals health and welfare, public health and trends in the veterinary practice.

The May 2017 Voice of the Veterinary Profession Survey asked 372 vets across the UK if they saw any cases of chocolate poisoning in companion animals over the 2017 Easter holidays.

Information for owners on pets and poisons can be found at www.bva-awf.org.uk/pet-care-advice/pets-and-poisons

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Survey launched to investigate EHV

News Story 1
 Zoetis has launched a new survey to identify management techniques for Equine Herpes Virus (EHV).

EHV is a contagious, airborne virus that can cause respiratory problems and severe diseases in horses and ponies. It spreads among horses over short distances, direct contact and through shared equipment.

The survey will explore current knowledge and management practices with EHV in the UK. It is quick to complete and participants could win one of 10 equine first aid kits.

Complete the survey here. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
WSAVA launches pet travel guidance factsheet

A new pet travel guidance factsheet for veterinary professionals and caregivers has been developed by the WSAVA in collaboration with the World Veterinary Association.

The Dog and Cat Welfare During Transport factsheet provides step-by-step guidance for all stages of a journey, from pre-travel checklists to post-travel care.

Brachycephalic breeds or animals prone to travel-related anxiety are given special focus in this guide, which also provides links to IATA container regulation and WSAVA vaccination guidelines.