Fish Medicine, Is It A Veterinary Speciality?
The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) has recently begun the process of developing fish medicine as a specialty within the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners.
The American Association of Fish Veterinarians (AAFV) will be working in support of the World Aquatic Veterinary Medical Association to develop a petition which will have fish practice recognized as a veterinary specialty.
Johnny Shelley, the past president of the AAFV, said:
“The specialty is going to allow clients to identify veterinarians who have the knowledge and expertise that prepares them to provide high-quality veterinary care”.
Having fish medicine recognized as a veterinary specialty will help aquaculture producers to understand the level of care fish need, as will government agencies in understanding fish health issues, and will provide overall better care for fish.
To read the full story, click here.
‘Disgraced’ Veterinarian Faces Court Battle
Alberta-based veterinarian, Dr. Jeff Serfas, is facing a court battle for continuing to practice whilst having his veterinarian license canceled back in October 2020.
The court documents highlight Serfas’ long history of disciplinary issues which includes at least 8 citations since starting practice. One of these includes a $10,000 fine and 30-day suspension after a series of complaints in 2013-2014.
According to the statement of the ruling, Jeff was known to intimidate clinic staff and clients, drink on the job, and intentionally harm animals.
He is thought to be The Alberta Veterinary Medical Association’s “most prolific offender”, according to the organization’s lawyer.
To read the full story, click here.
RCVS Publishes Recommendations On Support for BAME Students
The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RVCS) and the Veterinary Schools Council (VSC) have published a new report on how support for Black, Asian, and minority ethnic (BAME) veterinary students.
The report, which is a culmination of the work carried out by both RCVS and VSC BAME Student Support Working Group, explores key issues in supporting BAME students.
Stephanie-Rae Flicker (a recent Royal Veterinary College graduate and co-chair of the Working Group) said: “I hope this encourages and supports our veterinary institutions to actively implement change regarding discrimination faced during studies and placements, nurturing role models and helping affected students develop [a] sense of belonging and community during their studies and beyond.
“Many thanks to all that have contributed to the completion of this Report – we hope the recommendations have a lasting impact, and benefit those both already present and yet to enter our profession.”
Find out more here.
Welfare and Ethics Concerns As UK Dog Fertility Clinics Boom
Since 2020, canine fertility clinics have boomed in the UK. Back in 2020, there were estimated to be around 37 canine fertility clinics across the UK. However, according to findings by the Naturewatch Foundation, this has grown massively to a staggering 120 in October 2021, and an estimated 339 by today.
President of the British Veterinary Association (BVA), Dr. Justine Shotton, has spoken out on the matter: “We’re concerned about the welfare and the ethics of whether we should be helping dogs to give birth and breed in unnatural ways, particularly when we know that they’ve got issues in terms of inherited diseases or conditions or conformations.”
Find out more here.
Vet Medicine Disposal Campaign Launched by Animal Medicines Australia
Animal Medicines Australia (AMA), the peak organization for Australia’s animal health companies, has launched a new Vet-Med Disposal Campaign which aims to help veterinarians, farmers, and pet owners dispose of unwanted medicines safely.
The AMA’s executive director, Ben Stapley, said: “Disposing of old, expired and unused medicines responsibly, whether for your human or animal family members, is essential to safeguarding your health and to protect the environment”.
Find out more here.
5 Ways to Stay Engaged Through the Summer:
For many of us, the end of June marks the start of Summer. As the weather heats up, it can become increasingly hard to focus at work.
It is thought that in hot environments, the body uses more glucose to regulate body temperature, therefore, leaving less available for the brain.
So how can you stay motivated at work?
- Get outside:
Where possible spend time outside. Spending time outdoors has been shown to lower stress, heart rate, and blood pressure, whilst improving mental health and increasing mood. Whether is walking to work, having lunch outside, or simply sitting in nature, getting outdoors can help focus your mind.
- Plan vacations:
If you’re struggling to stay motivated, having a vacation, trip, or even just a couple of days off can help give you something to look forward to and allow your body and mind to recharge, reset, and relax.
- Stay hydrated:
When it heats up it can be tempting to grab an iced tea, or sugary drink to stay cool, however, these aren’t the best for productivity. Sugary drinks worsen dehydration, risk kidney damage, and increase blood pressure. Instead, opt for water to stay hydrated and cool throughout your day.
- Plan company events:
Summer can be the perfect time for team bonding and give you something to look forward to after a hard day – think work picnic, team drinks, or a bbq!
- Change your hours:
As the Summer months offer lighter mornings and evenings, you may find a change in your sleep pattern. If you’re an early riser, why not ask your practice if you can shift your working hours to fit your new sleep cycle.
