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Chicken research grants available for vet nurses and students
“Chickens are now a popular pet choice in the UK, which means it’s increasingly likely that one will be brought into your practice for diagnosis and treatment" - Steve Smith.
The funding aims to increase the welfare and longevity of pet hens. 

The British Hen Welfare Trust (BHWT) is encouraging veterinary students and nurses to apply for grants worth up to £3,000 for research into the welfare and behaviour of chickens.

Six grants have been made available by charity, of which one is co-funded by BSAVA PetSavers, the charitable arm of the BSAVA. 

Organisers hope the grants will build evidence and enhance veterinary knowledge to increase the quality of welfare and longevity of pet hens.

Steve Smith, EBVS European Veterinary Specialist in Avian Medicine and Surgery, called on vet students and nurses to apply for the grants and improve hen health among the profession.

“Chickens are now a popular pet choice in the UK, which means it’s increasingly likely that one will be brought into your practice for diagnosis and treatment,” he said. 

“We all know that the veterinary curriculum doesn’t cover these birds extensively, so anything that can enhance knowledge among our colleagues can only be a positive thing. And if you’re planning to specialise in avian medicine, taking on a funded research project like this could be a great experience.”

BHWT founder Jane Howorth MBE added: “Hen keepers often find there is a lack of treatment options specifically for chickens, and with more people discovering the joy of pet hens, this is an issue that’s not likely to disappear soon. 

“As a charity, we’re dedicated to improving pet hen health in numerous ways and these grants will go a long way to providing more support for the nation’s hen keepers and plugging the research and knowledge gap around these beautiful birds.” 

Applications for the grants will remain open until 15 July 2022. The BHWT Grant Committee will consider all applications before submitting a shortlist to a Scientific Research Committee.

For more information and to apply, visit bhwt.org.uk

 

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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.