Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 15th February 2023
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

Pennard Vets appoints new exotics lead
Veterinary surgeon Mark Rowland, who specialises in treating exotic animals, has been appointed by Pennard Vets.
Mark Rowland to join independent vet group.

Independent veterinary group Pennard Vets has appointed a new lead for its exotics department.

Mark Rowland, Advanced Practitioner in Zoological Medicine, qualified from Liverpool University in 1996, and has spent 25 years in practice. 

Achieving the Royal College Certificate in Zoological Medicine in 2007, Mark is renowned in the industry for his exotics knowledge, and has lectured both in the UK and internationally on the subject.

Pennard Vets director Andy Green discussed Mark's credentials: “Mark is the most qualified vet in the South East of England working in exotics, and we are delighted he is bringing so much experience to Pennard Vets. 

“We hope to become the go-to practice for all exotic pets in the South-East and believe that our new and existing clients will all benefit from Mark’s unique and thoughtful approach to veterinary care.”

Celebrating his new appointment, Mark said: “As well as treating dogs, cats and small pets like hamsters and guinea pigs, I’ve always been interested in caring for insects, fish, tortoises, birds, parrots, reptiles, and all other exotic pets.

“Exotic pets can suffer with all sorts of problems, including respiratory issues and hibernation complications, as well as accidents and injuries. Birds of prey for example can often hurt themselves needing urgent treatment, and each day brings new challenges. I have treated  tortoises  that had been attacked by dogs  and a fish that had swallowed a huge pebble – no case is ever the same!

“I’m really pleased to be joining Pennard Vets, which has seven sites across Kent, and is owned by its employees, which made it a particularly attractive place to join, as I now also own a stake in the business and can help shape the future of it. 

“I can’t wait to meet our clients and their pets and hope to make a real difference to their lives.”

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.