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WSAVA announces new chair of Vaccination Guidelines Group
"I am grateful for the trust of the VGG and look forward to collaborating with my colleagues to further advance the mission of the WSAVA" - Dr Mary Marcondes
Brazilian vet Dr Mary Marcondes takes over the role.

Dr Mary Marcondes has been announced as the new chair of The World Small Animal Veterinary Association's (WSAVA’s) Vaccination Guidelines Group (VGG). She succeeds Dr Richard Squires, who is remaining a member of the VGG.

Dr Marcondes is a Brazilian veterinarian who qualified at the University of São Paulo, and subsequently completed a residency there in small animal internal medicine and surgery. She holds an MSc and PhD in clinical veterinary science, and has held postdoctoral positions in infectious diseases at the University of São Paulo Medical School, and the School of Veterinary Medicine at the University of California. 

She went on to spend 26 years working for São Paulo State University (UNESP) before retiring as an associate professor of small animal internal medicine and infectious diseases.

The VGG is a team of experts from around the world who are focused on providing evidence-based scientific advice to the global veterinary profession on optimum practice for dogs and cats.

The latest version of peer-reviewed WSAVA Global Guidelines on Vaccination for veterinarians is due to be released during the WSAVA World Congress 2023 which is being held in Lisbon, Portugal this September. 

Dr Ellen van Nierop, WSAVA president, said: “VGG Guidelines are transforming vaccination practice around the world and we are grateful for the huge contribution that Dr Marcondes has already made to the VGG. We are delighted to welcome her to the new role of VGG Chair and look forward to working with her and the rest of the team as it starts this new chapter.” 

Dr Marcondes said: “I am deeply honoured to have the opportunity to continue the important work initiated by Professor Michael Day and Dr Richard Squires. It is a privilege to carry forward their vision. This position carries immense importance as it allows me to contribute to the wellbeing of small companion animals on a global scale. I am grateful for the trust of the VGG and look forward to collaborating with my colleagues to further advance the mission of the WSAVA to advance the health and welfare of companion animals worldwide through an educated, committed and collaborative global community of veterinary peers.”

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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.