UK Consolidator expands Into North American Market

IVC Evidensia, the second-largest practice conglomerate in the world, has expanded its empire into North America. 
The British-owned company acquired the Canadian chain VetStrategy for an undisclosed sum. This acquisition brings IVC Evidensia closer to its American competition, Mars, which owns 2,500 clinics worldwide. 
VetStrategy’s chief executive, Orin Litman, said in a press release last week that: 
‘Having co-founded the business in 2006, I am immensely proud of our organization’s growth and commitment to our key stakeholders, and I am thrilled to partner with one of the leading veterinary groups in the world.’
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Vets Warn Of The Implications Of Forcing Animals To Undertake Gruelling Medical Procedures 

An animal welfare group has warned vets and pet owners against facilitating intensive veterinary treatments that may put pets in unnecessary pain. 
The group, EthicsFirst (made up of veterinary professionals and academics) told The Times that it was concerned about the overdiagnosis and treatment of animals. 
Advances in medical treatments have meant that vets are increasingly undertaking more complicated and risky procedures. Although some of these advancements have been transformative, others may not be in the best interests of the animals. A situation that requires more debate according to the group.
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RCVS Asks Vets To Come Back To The Profession Amid Workforce Shortfall 

The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) has been scouring through its databases in the hopes of convincing non-practicing vets to return to the workforce. 
The move comes amid workforce shortages ravaging the UK. The situation has been accelerated by productivity drops and worker shortfalls from the EU.
In a statement, RCVS chief executive Lizzie Lockett said:
‘We know there has been a workforce issue in terms of a shortage of skilled veterinarians for some time, but I think the ongoing impact of COVID has exacerbated the problem really. There is burnout, illness, various restrictions, so teams are struggling.’
‘We are also looking at recruitment from overseas, so ongoing considerations around direct accreditation of veterinary schools that have an overproduction in the EU, although there are capacity issues across Europe and the rest of the world, too.’
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Australian Study Shows The Central Role Clients Play in Veterinary Satisfaction

A study of Australian vets has found that vets derive a significant amount of satisfaction from appreciative clients. 
The research from VetRecord asked professionals what they enjoyed about their work. Many respondents said that being shown trust and respect by their clients significantly increased their level of satisfaction. 
Lead author Madeleine Clise, a psychologist and Adjunct Lecturer at the University of Adelaide, said that:
‘At a time when there are national shortages of vets – particularly in regional areas – and increased publicity about the risks and challenges in the profession, we need to focus on what contributes to vets experiencing positive emotions so we can better understand how to improve the wellbeing of those who care for our beloved pets, livestock, and wildlife.’
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How To Beat The Sunday Blues 

Feel anxious the night before you go back to work? 
Sunday night anxiety/the Sunday blues is the feeling of anxiety professionals experience the day before coming back to work. 
It is common in professionals with hectic work schedules and high workloads (sound familiar?) and a real bummer when you’re trying to relax and recuperate during your day off. 
One method you could use to ease pre-work anxiety is the use of relaxation exercises. 
Progressive muscular relaxation (where you tense up each of your muscles, holding for 10-15 seconds and releasing) is a great strategy to try. Guided imagery, another relaxation exercise where you visualize calming scenarios, can also be great for your nerves. 
Positive self-talk can also help change internal narratives that may be causing anxiety. It can help redirect your attention to the positives and give a more rounded view of your week ahead. 
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