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Vets express concern over cheap wormer promotion
"It is exceedingly disappointing to see de-wormers being advertised in this way" - David Rendle, BEVA.
Retailer accused of putting 'short-term profits above equine welfare'.

The British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA) has expressed concern over a ‘potentially damaging’ online promotion advertising cheap wormers for horses.

The well-known retailer advertised 'horse wormers from £4.33', and the Association fears this could lead horse owners to make poor judgments on equine worm management based primarily on cost rather than clinical need. 

The subject has been the subject of debate in the equine press, with Horse & Hound recently publishing an item featuring a statement from BEVA. 

"It is exceedingly disappointing to see de-wormers being advertised in this way by companies who are putting their short-term profits above equine welfare and the long-term effectiveness of these products,” commented David Rendle, chair of BEVA’s Health and Medicines Committee.

“We now have resistance to every class of de-wormer and it is grossly irresponsible to be promoting these products based on their low cost. These products should only be used where there has been careful consideration of the risk of clinical disease and appropriate diagnostic testing.

“Antibacterial drugs would never be advertised in this way, so why is it acceptable for de-wormers? Resistant worms pose a far more immediate threat to equine welfare than resistant bacteria.  Is the equine industry ever going to wake up to the threat that resistant parasites pose to equine welfare and the future viability of the industry?”

A spokesperson for the retailer expressed regret for the promotion's content and pledged to review the firm's communications to ensure appropriate guidance is provided.

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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...
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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.