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Dechra launches new sedative for dogs
The sedative offers reduced cardiovasculat side effects.

New product promises rapid onset and recovery.

A new sedation medication for dogs has been launched by Dechra, named Zenalpha.

Zenalpha is an alpha-2 agonist and peripheral antagonist combination, which alleviates the stress of sedation.

The medication provides restraint, sedation and analgesia during procedures that are non-invasive, non-painful or mildly painful, which last for less than 30 minutes.

With rapid onset and recovery, it allows for veterinary surgeons to start procedures quickly, and for patients to recover faster. 

Zenalpha is administered intramuscularly and takes five to 15 minutes to take effect. 

Brand manager at Dechra, Claire Westoby, commented: “With an ever-growing range of products for anaesthesia and analgesia, we are delighted to add Zenalpha to our extensive portfolio.

"The next generation of alpha-2 agonists have evolved to provide the same effective and reliable sedation and analgesia, but with reduced cardiovascular side effects and a reduced chance of vomiting.  

“This improves the sedation experience for the canine patient, as well as reducing the associated stress commonly experienced by veterinary teams and dog owners.”

Matt Gurney BVSc CertVA PgCertVBM DipECVAA FRCVS RCVS and EBVS European Specialist in Veterinary Anaesthesia, explained: “Zenalpha not only provides a solution to cases where IV placement is not possible and a rapid onset IM option is required, but it also offers a rapid and complete recovery which ensures that dogs can be reunited with their owners and return home as soon as possible.”

Further information on Zenalpha can be found on the Dechra website at Dechra.co.uk/zenalpha or by contacting a local Dechra territory manager.

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Voting opens for BEVA Council

News Story 1
 Eligible members of BEVA will be able to vote for their Council team until Monday, 17 August 2026. Members will have received an election email on 17 July.

There are five candidates standing for four available places on Council. They are:

  • Alexandre Triguino
  • Angela Jones
  • Beth Bryant
  • Holly Rees
  • Hugh Somerville
Full profiles for each candidate can be found on the BEVA website

Click here for more...
News Shorts
BVA urges 'continued vigilance' over bluetongue

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has urged vigilance following a concerning rise in Bluetongue (BTV) cases in sheep and cattle.

In a recent statement, the BVA noted that members are reporting more severe clinical signs and higher mortality rates than in previous years.

'We know that farm vets are working hard to support farmers and animals affected by this outbreak, during what is an extremely difficult time for all involved,' they stated. 'Continued vigilance to identify disease early is vital and vaccination remains the best way of protecting animals from this disease.'