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RCVS Knowledge launches VetTeamAMR
An online equine event is being held on Tuesday, 6 June.
The initiative aims to give vet teams the knowledge and tools to combat AMR.

RCVS Knowledge has announced the launch of VetTeamAMR, which is an initiative to give veterinary teams the knowledge and tools to counter the threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

Free, evidence-based resources and tools will be offered via VetTeamAMR to support responsible antimicrobial use by equine, companion, and farm teams. 

To launch the initiative, RCVS Knowledge is hosting a series of free events, commencing on Tuesday, 6 June at 7pm. In this online event, the issue of AMR in equine medicine will be explored, and VetTeamAMR materials will be launched specifically for equine veterinary teams.

The initiative for equine teams will be introduced by Tim Mair, VetTeamAMR equine clinical lead at RCVS Knowledge. It includes a learning platform and free antimicrobial audit tool, which is designed to support continuous improvements in national antimicrobial stewardship efforts.

An event for companion and animal teams will take place on Tuesday, 20 June.

Part of VetTeamAMR, Farm Vet Champions was launched in 2021 and has successfully been supporting veterinary teams in the farm animal sector to improve antimicrobial stewardship.

AMR is a global issue that poses a threat to both humans and animals. VetTeamAMR is partly funded by the Veterinary Medicines Directorate and sees veterinary teams and stakeholders from companion, equine and farm backgrounds collaborate to implement changes to combat AMR nationally.

Chris Gush, executive director at RCVS Knowledge said: “AMR is a hugely important issue for us at RCVS Knowledge and we are pleased to be able to provide veterinary teams with free tools and resources to support the responsible use of antimicrobials. 

“Antibiotics remain the primary treatment for potentially fatal bacterial infections. Yet inappropriate use of antibiotics has led to resistance that has created a global animal and human health emergency.

“With busy veterinary practices in mind, we have worked alongside veterinary experts to create accessible and user-friendly VetTeamAMR tools and resources and we encourage all UK veterinary practices to get involved.”

The equine VetTeamAMR event can be booked online.

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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.