https://vetpol.co.uk/ Please email press releases to press@vetpol.co.uk en Tue, 12 May 2026 15:05:21 GMT vBulletin 60 images/misc/rss.png https://vetpol.co.uk/ https://vetpol.co.uk/62939-retail-sector-shows-strong-appetite-for-equine-nutrition-training Tue, 12 May 2026 08:25:48 GMT
Since its launch in January, the initiative has seen high levels of engagement across the retail community. To date, 28 participants have fully completed the SPILLERS™ Training module and received a Certificate of Completion to display in-store, demonstrating their commitment to enhancing customer support and expertise.

In addition, 274 modules have been completed across the platform. Of these, 172 modules were completed by participants collecting AMTRA points, resulting in 344 Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points awarded. A further 102 modules were completed by participants not enrolled for AMTRA accreditation, highlighting the broad appeal and accessibility of the training.

The structured programme consists of five comprehensive modules covering key areas of equine nutrition, including market insights, prohibited substances (NOPS), nutrients, clinical conditions, and feed categories.

Participants can test their knowledge through quizzes and on successful completion, earn a Certificate of Completion. AMTRA members can also gain up to 12 CPD points by completing the whole clinical conditions module.

“Through this training hub, we’re giving retailers the knowledge and practical tools they need to guide their customers with greater assurance and credibility,” said Vanessa Allen, Nutrition Content Manager at Mars Horsecare, home of the SPILLERS™ brand. “It’s been created to support a wide audience—from in-store feed advisors to equine students and anyone keen to deepen their understanding of horse nutrition—and because there is no cost involved it’s fully accessible to everyone.”

The training is especially relevant for retailers. Each module delivers clear, practical information that can be applied directly in-store, helping retailers provide informed guidance to horse owners and riders.

Samantha Christie, Sales Assistant at Millbry Hill said: “The SPILLERS™ training has been so valuable for our team. The modules are easy to follow but packed with useful, practical knowledge and great for learning basics around nutrients.

“The clinical conditions section is especially impressive, giving a clear, unbiased overview of common nutrition-related conditions. Since completing the training, we feel much more confident advising customers, and it’s already making a difference in the conversations we’re having in-store.”

The success of the initiative highlights a growing demand for accessible, high-quality education within the equine retail sector. SPILLERS™ plans to continue to develop the training hub to encourage further participation across the industry.

To find out more visit https://www.spillers-feeds.com/nutrition-training


​]]> News Dawn Prime https://vetpol.co.uk/62939-retail-sector-shows-strong-appetite-for-equine-nutrition-training https://vetpol.co.uk/62937-purina-institute-global-summit-2026-to-spotlight-how-the-human-animal-bond-is-shaping-future-veterinary-medicine Tue, 12 May 2026 08:22:01 GMT Global leaders in veterinary medicine, nutrition, behavioural science and human healthcare will convene at the Purina Institute Global Summit 2026 to...
At a time when demand for preventive pet healthcare is rapidly increasing, this premier event highlights how the veterinary profession can shift from a model focused on reactive treatment to one centred on proactive, preventive care, strengthening the human–animal bond, improving vet–client partnerships, and supporting longer, healthier lives for pets.

A lineup of 17 expert speakers includes Dr James A. Serpell of the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, who will deliver a session on the origins of the human–animal bond. Dr Gregory Berns of Emory University will discuss using functional MRI to decode what dogs really think and feel.

Exploring the case for changing the care paradigm, Dr Zoe Belshaw, RCVS and European Recognised Specialist in Small Animal Medicine, will examine the differences in clients’ and veterinarians’ perceptions of preventive care.
Dr Kit Delgado, the faculty director of the Penn Medicine Nudge Unit, the world’s first behavioural design team embedded within a health system, will present on diagnosing and designing for better preventive care decisions with insights from behavioural economics.

The event will also consider how change in the care paradigm can be enacted, with Dr Jason Coe, of the University of Guelph’s Ontario Veterinary College, leading a session on reframing how we communicate the value of preventive veterinary care, and Dr Alison Lambert of Onswitch examining the key partnership between pet parents and the veterinary healthcare team.

“Pet owners increasingly expect personalised, preventive care shaped around the human–animal bond. The Purina Institute Global Summit will equip veterinary teams with practical communication strategies and emerging tools to improve client adherence and ultimately deliver better long-term patient outcomes,” said Daniel Rodes,

Innovation and Renovation Lead at Purina Europe.
All virtual presentations will be available free for veterinary professionals to attend live or view later on demand, and provide up to 8.5 hours of CPD. Live translations will also be available.

Veterinary professionals can visit
https://globalsummit2026.purinainstitute.com to register free of charge and find out more about the full programme and speakers.
​
]]> News Dawn Prime https://vetpol.co.uk/62937-purina-institute-global-summit-2026-to-spotlight-how-the-human-animal-bond-is-shaping-future-veterinary-medicine https://vetpol.co.uk/62936-new-study-highlights-risk-factors-for-periodontal-disease-in-dogs Tue, 12 May 2026 08:17:57 GMT A new large-scale study of owner-reported data has found that more than half of pet dogs are affected by periodontal disease, with age, breed, oral...
Periodontal disease is one of the most common health issues affecting dogs, yet it is often diagnosed late in the disease process and can have a significant impact on overall health and wellbeing.

The study, published in the Journal of Small Animal Practice and conducted by researchers at the Waltham Petcare Science Institute, used questionnaires completed by 12,753 dog owners across the United States and Canada to collect data on dog demographics, health and lifestyle factors and identify the prevalence of and risk factors for periodontal disease.

Overall, periodontal disease (PD) was reported by owners of over half of the dogs (50.5%) in the study population.

Age was a key risk factor, with dogs aged eight years and older having a significantly higher risk of PD, while dogs under four years had the lowest risk. PD was most commonly diagnosed in toy and small breeds. American Cocker Spaniel, Papillon, Yorkshire Terrier, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, and Pomeranian had an increased risk. In contrast, large breeds had the smallest odds of disease.

Several oral health diagnoses were associated with an increased likelihood of PD, including halitosis and resistance to head touch. Dogs with missing teeth due to trauma or non‑eruption, or with malocclusion, were less likely to be associated with PD.

Analysis of oral care methods showed that the prevalence of PD was lower in dogs that used chew toys and rawhide/animal parts, and was higher in dogs where liquid/gel/oil products, powder-based products, or toothbrushing were used.

Behavioural associations were also identified. Dogs with periodontal disease were significantly more likely to be described by their owners as fearful/timid, very stressed, very reserved, and have low energy, and were less likely to be associated with excellent overall health and mood.

Brachycephalic dogs had significantly lower odds of periodontal disease, compared with mesocephalic breeds. The true prevalence of PD in such breeds may be under-diagnosed and therefore under-reported, however, as the diagnostic procedures required for PD diagnosis require general anaesthetic, which is a high risk procedure for brachycephalic breeds. No significant association was found between periodontal disease and sex or neuter status.

Lead author, Dr Alex Jemmett at Waltham Petcare Science Institute, said: “Our findings support numerous existing reports regarding canine periodontal disease and its associated risk factors. They also highlight key issues regarding the management of PD. It’s our hope that the risk factors we’ve highlighted could contribute to earlier identification and prevention in the future.”

Read the study in the Journal of Small Animal Practice: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jsap.70121
​]]> News Dawn Prime https://vetpol.co.uk/62936-new-study-highlights-risk-factors-for-periodontal-disease-in-dogs https://vetpol.co.uk/62934-cvs-publishes-quality-improvement-and-research-report-report-includes-advances-in-patient-safety-responsible-prescribing-and-research Sat, 09 May 2026 18:03:46 GMT CVS Group has published its Quality Improvement and Research Report for 2025, demonstrating its commitment to improving patient outcomes, supporting...
Bringing together quality improvement (QI) and research insights into a single publication, the report highlights how data, research and frontline learning are being used to make care safer, more effective and more sustainable for animals, clients and colleagues.

It reflects a collective effort across CVS practices, laboratories, referral hospitals and support teams, and spans key areas including antimicrobial stewardship, patient safety, workplace safety, parasiticide prescribing, nurse skill utilisation and the responsible use of artificial intelligence in veterinary care.

Paul Higgs, Chief Veterinary Officer at CVS Group, said: “Our commitment to learning really comes through in this report and it reflects the curiosity, honesty and commitment across CVS to continuously ask: can we do this better and what can we do differently.”

Antimicrobial stewardship is an important theme of the report, with a focus on responsible prescribing in companion animal, farm and equine. Highlights include progress in reducing antibiotic use, as well as strengthening our prescribing benchmark in companion animal from 2.3% of consultations resulting in an antibiotic prescription to 2%.

Angela Rayner, Director of Quality Improvement at CVS Group, said: “The report reflects meaningful progress in reducing unnecessary antibiotic use and in the support our teams receive to reflect on their data, learn together and keep improving.”

CVS also collaborated on research with leading UK universities as well as supporting teams with data, education and evidence‑based guidelines.

Imogen Schofield, Director of Research and Data Science at CVS Group, said: “The findings in this report show research directly shaping safer, better care. It also highlights how much our colleagues contribute; thousands of people across CVS helping to generate new knowledge that benefits patients and the wider profession.”


A section focuses on CVS Group’s ‘Learning from Mistakes’ mission, launched to strengthen psychological safety, improve reporting and ensure teams learn constructively when things don’t go to plan.

In research, key topics include a multi‑year workplace injuries research programme that has already driven evidence‑based safety changes — including a mandatory protective equipment policy in equine practice alongside new findings in parasiticide prescribing, nurse skill utilisation and environmental impact.

The report also provides forward-looking insight into emerging priorities, including the responsible adoption of artificial intelligence to support clinical note taking and reduce administrative burden, as well as ongoing PhD programmes focused on antimicrobial stewardship, parasiticide environmental impact and nurse role optimisation.


Together, the findings underline CVS Group’s long‑term commitment to continuous improvement — recognising that learning is ongoing and that progress is built through openness, collaboration and evidence generation.


The CVS Group Quality Improvement and Research Report is available to view online here.

]]> News Dawn Prime https://vetpol.co.uk/62934-cvs-publishes-quality-improvement-and-research-report-report-includes-advances-in-patient-safety-responsible-prescribing-and-research https://vetpol.co.uk/62932-arthurs-veterinary-specialists-opens-state-of-the-art-facility-in-heyford-hills-farm-northamptonshire Sat, 09 May 2026 18:01:38 GMT The independent referral practice, specialising in orthopaedic surgery for dogs and cats, has relocated to spacious, purpose-built premises housing... The independent referral practice, specialising in orthopaedic surgery for dogs and cats, has relocated to spacious, purpose-built premises housing three operating theatres, imaging equipment, and an on-site blood testing laboratory.

Surgeon and founder, Dr Gareth Arthurs, leveraged financing from Siemens Financial Services to comfortably invest in a high-quality CT scanner and digital x-ray, as well as equipment for the laboratory.

The rise in small animal or pet ownership in the UK is driving demand for veterinary services. In the veterinary orthopedics market alone, one analyst predicts an annual growth rate of 7.7% from 2025 to 2030. One consequence of this growth is a significant increase in the number of practices acquired by corporate operators. Arthurs prides itself on its independent status, allowing for a more flexible and personal service. Independent practice owners are also typically closer to everyday challenges in their practices, and can quickly and nimbly adapt as needed.

Dr Arthurs has over 20 years’ experience working in the largest specialist clinics and veterinary teaching hospitals in the UK. Fellow surgeons at Arthurs, Valentina Brioschi and Francisco Silveira, are also highly experienced. “Our mission at Arthurs Veterinary Specialists is to offer high quality at a reasonable price. We seek out the best possible equipment available, but without charging our customers extortionate prices that are out of proportion to the service.” The 80/160-slice CT scanner, for instance, creates 160 ‘slices’, or cross-sectional images, and stacks them to create more detailed views.

“The financing route supports this mission. We were able to buy all the equipment we needed, and the models we wanted, all in time for the opening and without cutting costs elsewhere. The Siemens Financial Services team were a great help, offering valuable advice throughout. They also provided a single loan arrangement to cover all our purchases, which reduced the admin burden for us. We hope to leverage financing for further specialist equipment as we grow. We’re fortunate to have plenty of room for expansion – we will need equipment for total hip replacements, for instance.”

The clinic can be easily accessed through major routes such as the M1, M40, A5, A43 and A45. Specialist referral centres such as Arthurs are the last port of call in vet care, following a consultation with a general practice (GP) veterinarian, then (if appropriate) an Advanced Practitioner for more targeted care.
​

]]> News Dawn Prime https://vetpol.co.uk/62932-arthurs-veterinary-specialists-opens-state-of-the-art-facility-in-heyford-hills-farm-northamptonshire https://vetpol.co.uk/62930-love-your-local-pet-shop-new-research-says-it-s-time-to-prove-it Sat, 09 May 2026 17:58:05 GMT
It is that worrying gap between sentiment and shopping behaviour that this year's National Pet Shop Day is setting out to challenge.

Returning for its third year on Saturday 11th July, National Pet Shop Day calls on pet owners to turn appreciation into action, and gives independent retailers the national platform, practical support and community focus to make that happen.

The campaign has grown significantly since its launch. In its second year, the number of participating retailers doubled, with more than 500 independent shops across the UK taking part. Retailer registration for 2026 is now open.

Paul Gwynn, Chairman of Johnson's Veterinary Products, said: "The research tells us what independent retailers have always known. Pet owners trust their local shop, value its advice, and would genuinely miss it if it disappeared. National Pet Shop Day is a reminder that trust alone won't keep these businesses open. We need people to act on it."

Independent pet shops are the local health and wellbeing hubs of the pet world, providing face-to-face support and reassurance to animal lovers and ensuring that minor conditions are treated effectively, efficiently and affordably. With National Pet Shop Day, Johnson's, a proudly independent British family business with over a hundred years of experience supporting the pet care trade, celebrates the ongoing contribution that independent retailers make to their communities, and the services, knowledge and advice they offer to the nation's pet owners every day.

Retailers who register will receive a free promo pack, access to a dedicated PR and Social Media Toolkit, and a listing on the National Pet Shop Day interactive map to help local pet owners find their nearest participating store. They will each benefit from an extra 10% off an order with Johnson’s Veterinary Products too.
An in-store promotion running on the day itself will give pet owners who visit their local participating shop the chance to win a £500 voucher for a pet-friendly holiday with Pets in Pyjamas, helping retailers drive footfall and boost engagement.

A separate competition will reward the best celebratory activities on the day, with a £500 voucher up for grabs for the three winning retailers.

Retailers can register at nationalpetshopday.co.uk or by speaking to their local Johnson's Area Sales Representative.
​
]]> News Dawn Prime https://vetpol.co.uk/62930-love-your-local-pet-shop-new-research-says-it-s-time-to-prove-it https://vetpol.co.uk/62928-virbac-launches-new-cpd-module-hyperthyroidism-101-%C3%A2-a-toolkit-for-the-modern-veterinary-team Sat, 09 May 2026 17:55:20 GMT Hyperthyroidism 101 – A Toolkit for the Modern Veterinary Team, a comprehensive refresher for the whole clinical team, from new graduates to seasoned surgeons and nurses on the most common endocrine disorder in cats.

This six‑part, bite‑sized series provides a practical, flexible learning format that fits around busy clinical schedules, offering clear guidance on diagnosis, treatment and long‑term management.

What you will learn:

Feline hyperthyroidism has moved beyond simply “treating the numbers.” Presented by Dr Sam Taylor BVetMed(Hons) CertSAM DipECVIM‑CA FRCVS, a globally recognised specialist in internal and feline medicine, this module focuses on real‑world clinical decision‑making, giving veterinary teams practical tips to improve patient outcomes and support client compliance.

The six focused sessions cover the full patient journey:
• Session 1 – Introduction: Thyroid health in the modern UK feline population
• Session 2 – Clinical Signs: From classic presentations to subtle, easily missed indicators
• Session 3 – Current Treatments: Overview of available options and where medical management excels
• Session 4 – Practical Monitoring: Achieving and maintaining euthyroidism
• Session 5 – Prognosis: Supporting long‑term quality of life and managing owner expectations
• Session 6 – Thyronorm Overview: How Thyronorm can be integrated into clinical practice.

Feline hyperthyroidism can be a "great masquerader," presenting with everything from classic polyphagia to subtle, "apathetic" clinical signs. This CPD series breaks down the complexities of feline hyperthyroidism into manageable, actionable learning—ready to apply in your next consult.

Don’t miss out - enrol for free or log on at: https://www.virbac-hub.co.uk/
​ ]]> News Dawn Prime https://vetpol.co.uk/62928-virbac-launches-new-cpd-module-hyperthyroidism-101-%C3%A2-a-toolkit-for-the-modern-veterinary-team https://vetpol.co.uk/62927-external-insight-strengthens-xlvets%C3%A2-board-with-new-co-chair-appointment Sat, 09 May 2026 17:51:10 GMT XLVets is bringing leadership experience and complementary skills into its board structure from outside the veterinary industry, after welcoming...
Roxanne will lead the XLVets board in partnership with the current Chair, Jonathan Stockton.

XLVets is a community of over 70 independent practices that share experience, knowledge and skills in support of one another. Roxanne has worked with the organisation on several projects, firstly in 2020 when she supported a Veterinary Women in Leadership Event with XLVets and Veterinary Woman and more recently she delivered a hugely popular ‘Courageous Leadership’ workshop at XLVets’ 2025 AGM.

Roxanne’s experience spans leadership development and coaching, culture change and diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) consultancy, as well as facilitation and team development. She’s also an independent business owner, after leading an advertising agency and founding The Hobbs Consultancy, which supports organisations to build high-performing, inclusive teams.

Commenting on her appointment, Roxanne said: “What drew me in is the strength of the community and the willingness to keep evolving. Community is one of my core values, and I'm really looking forward to working with an organisation that has a purpose aligned so strongly with my own.”

“This is an exciting opportunity to join XLVets at an important time for the veterinary profession. I’m looking forward to bringing an independent perspective, supporting the board to perform at its best, and helping XLVets navigate change whilst laying the foundations for an inclusive, high-performing future.”

Kerrie Hedley, XLVets’ incoming CEO who will take up the post in June, has worked with Roxanne for several years and immediately recognised what she could bring to XLVets at a time of significant change for the veterinary sector, as well as the benefits of her independent perspective from outside the profession.

Kerrie explained: “We are very pleased to welcome Roxanne to the board. She brings a breadth of experience that complements the skills we already have and strengthens our ability to think differently as a leadership team. This appointment reflects what many of our members have been asking for, and mirrors steps they are taking within their own businesses.

“Roxanne’s focus on board performance will ensure we are well positioned for the future. At a time of significant change within the profession and more broadly, her experience in supporting high-performing teams to navigate complexity and embrace diverse thinking will be invaluable.”
​]]> News Dawn Prime https://vetpol.co.uk/62927-external-insight-strengthens-xlvets%C3%A2-board-with-new-co-chair-appointment https://vetpol.co.uk/62926-passion-of-veterinary-leaders-to-improve-their-workplaces-shines-through-at-vmg-congress Sat, 09 May 2026 17:46:14 GMT New formats, speakers and topics support greater sharing and learning.

This year’s VMG Congress introduced innovative formats, including ShareSPACE Live, designed to help delegates feel more comfortable sharing their experiences. It also revealed a clear sense of urgency among attendees to improve workplace culture across the veterinary sector. The event highlighted the value of qualified veterinary leaders, with certificates presented to recent graduates of the VMG’s accredited qualifications.

The theme of strong leadership underpinned the keynote address by Victoria Humphries, who described herself as a ‘normal person: mother, business leader and polar explorer’. Drawing parallels between leadership in today’s fast-changing veterinary sector and navigating the North Pole, she said: “The Arctic consists of permanently frozen water, so the ground beneath you is continually moving and shifting. You head north, but never in a straight line.”
During her presidential address, Rebecca Robinson MRCVS called on everyone working in the sector, whether or not they have ‘leader’ in their title, to recognise the role they can play in leading others. At a time of multiple pressures on the veterinary profession, she reminded delegates that, as the saying goes, ‘pressure makes diamonds, and good leaders are diamonds’.

A new feature at this year’s Congress was the first live session of the participant-driven forum ShareSPACE. Running throughout Thursday, it hosted discussions on 15 topics selected by delegates on the day. Several attendees reported to VMG Learning and Development Manager Amy Martin that the relaxed and informal setting enabled conversations that would not otherwise have taken place.

Other highlights included the presentation of the VMG’s accredited qualifications – the VMG/ILM Award, Certificate and Diploma in Veterinary Leadership and Management – to 15 students.

Two CVLM students, Bethan Gray and Brooke Paul, were selected by the VMG Congress Committee to present at the event. Bethan Gray, from IVC Evidensia, spoke on sustainable veterinary retention, while Brooke Paul, from James Street Veterinary Clinic in Louth, Lincolnshire, explored how practices can build ‘local love’ and become the most recognised veterinary practice in their community.

VMG Director Helen Mason, whose session ‘The People-pleaser’s Guide to Leading Teams’ was standing room only, said: “Our vision was to create a congress rich in interaction, informality and collaboration, and an environment in which everyone felt safe and ready to share their experiences and learn from each other. Without doubt, we achieved this, and we are delighted to have received such positive feedback from delegates, speakers and exhibitors alike.”

VMG President Rebecca Robinson added: “What will stay with me is the buzz and excitement around the introduction of ShareSPACE and the enthusiasm for the new topics and speakers on the programme. What was also very clear was the sense of common purpose among everyone at VMG Congress to play a key role in improving veterinary workplaces.”

She added: “In these challenging times, veterinary leaders need a community that offers them collective strength, knowledge and support. VMG Congress is the perfect place for members to start building the personal relationships, knowledge and networks that will sustain them throughout their careers. We’re already looking forward to VMG Congress 2027.”

VMG Congress, under the theme ‘United in Leadership’, took place from 22 to 24 April 2026 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Stratford-upon-Avon.

Next year’s VMG Congress will take place from 21 to 23 April 2027. Super Early Bird tickets are on sale until 31 May 2026. Email office@vetmg.com for further information.
​​]]> News Dawn Prime https://vetpol.co.uk/62926-passion-of-veterinary-leaders-to-improve-their-workplaces-shines-through-at-vmg-congress https://vetpol.co.uk/62925-programme-announced-for-bsava-alba-2026 Sat, 09 May 2026 17:40:00 GMT
Developed by the BSAVA Scottish Committee, the two-day event will offer delegates up to 12 hours of CPD, with a diverse programme of lectures, panel discussions, small-group learning and hands-on practical workshops across multiple streams.

Featuring 11 expert speakers, the programme delivers clinically relevant content for the whole practice team, including veterinary surgeons, veterinary nurses and students. Topics covered include anaesthesia, cytology, dentistry, behaviour, contextualised care in both surgery and medicine, as well as hot topics and guidance on navigating difficult conversations in practice.

Alongside the education programme, delegates will have the opportunity to explore the exhibition hall, with more than 25 industry exhibitors confirmed. Companies set to attend include VetPlus, Royal Canin, Burtons Veterinary Equipment, Boehringer Ingelheim, Elanco, and others.

Following a day of inspiring sessions, attendees will also have the opportunity to join a complimentary social event in the Exhibition Hall, providing a relaxed setting to reconnect with colleagues, meet new contacts, and network informally.

Sarah Fitzpatrick, Head of Partnerships and Events at the BSAVA said: “We’re delighted to once again bring BSAVA Alba to the heart of Glasgow. It’s a fantastic opportunity for the veterinary community in Scotland and beyond to come together, share knowledge and connect. We’re confident the programme offers real value whatever your role in the profession.”

Early bird tickets are on sale now until 31st July 2026. Prices start at £93 for BSAVA members; £109 for non-members.

For more information and the full programme, visit the website: https://www.bsavaalba.com/
​]]> News Dawn Prime https://vetpol.co.uk/62925-programme-announced-for-bsava-alba-2026 https://vetpol.co.uk/62923-virbac-confirms-immediate-uk-availability-of-syvazul-btv-8-vaccine-for-livestock-protection Wed, 29 Apr 2026 12:31:42 GMT Virbac is delighted to announce that Syvazul BTV 8, a vaccine for the active immunisation of sheep and cattle against Bluetongue Virus Serotype 8... Virbac is delighted to announce that Syvazul BTV 8, a vaccine for the active immunisation of sheep and cattle against Bluetongue Virus Serotype 8 (BTV‑8), is now in stock and available for immediate order through veterinary wholesalers across England, Scotland and Wales.

Bluetongue Serotype 8 was detected in the South‑West of England towards the end of last year’s vector season and has since been confirmed in the South‑East, including East Sussex. With the risk of Bluetongue remaining a significant concern for the UK agricultural sector, the immediate availability of Syvazul BTV 8 comes at a crucial time as farmers prepare for the peak midge season.

Vaccination against Bluetongue Virus Serotype 8 (BTV‑8)remains the most effective tool for reducing clinical signs and lowering viral load within a herd or flock.

Syvazul BTV 8 is authorised for:

• Sheep: Prevention of viraemia and reduction of clinical signs and lesions caused by BTV‑8
• Cattle: Prevention of viraemia caused by BTV‑8

The vaccine can be used during pregnancy and lactation and carries a zero‑day withdrawal period, supporting uninterrupted farm productivity.

“We understand the pressure livestock farmers are under regarding the threat of Bluetongue,” said Sarah Kearney, Product Manager at Virbac. “The addition of Syvazul BTV 8 to our portfolio reinforces our commitment to providing reliable, high‑quality control strategies. By making Syvazul BTV 8vaccine available now, we are enabling vets and farmers to implement vaccination protocols early, so providing the best possible defence for their animals.”

For more information and to secure stock, contact your Virbac Territory Manger, wholesaler or call Virbac on 01359 243243. Email: enquiries@virbac.co.uk

*For full technical information on Syvazul BTV 8, please refer to the SPC.
​

]]> News Dawn Prime https://vetpol.co.uk/62923-virbac-confirms-immediate-uk-availability-of-syvazul-btv-8-vaccine-for-livestock-protection https://vetpol.co.uk/62921-vet-aquadent%C3%A2%C2%AE-fr3sh%C3%A2%C2%A2-awarded-vohc-seal Thu, 16 Apr 2026 06:54:41 GMT Vet Aquadent® FR3SH™, the palatable drinking water additive that helps control plaque and tartar formation in cats and dogs, has been awarded the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) Seal of Acceptance. Vet Aquadent® FR3SH™ also becomes the only drinking water additive on the VOHC Accepted Products List to hold the Seal for both plaque and tartar control.

The VOHC Seal of Acceptance exists to recognise dental products that have been clinically proven to reduce the severity of periodontal disease in pets, when used regularly. To obtain the VOHC Seal, product performance is evaluated in two separate clinical trials and in strict accordance with approved VOHC protocols. Trial data is reviewed by a panel of board-certified veterinary dentists and dental scientists, before being submitted to the American Veterinary Dental College (AVDC) board for final approval.

Vet Aquadent® FR3SH™ features Virbac’s innovative FR3SH™ technology, which is also featured in VeggieDent® FR3SH™ & VeggieDent® ZEN™ Dental Chews. This triple‑action formula includes:

• Pomegranate to clean and help prevent dental plaque formation with an antioxidant, anti-aggregative effect^(1)(2)(3)
• Inulin to address the digestive sources of bad breath by supporting a balanced intestinal microflora⁽⁴⁾⁽⁵⁾
• Erythritol to freshen breath with a cooling effect and provide anti-plaque benefits⁽⁶⁾⁽⁷⁾

In one study, published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science, dogs using Vet Aquadent® FR3SH™ daily for 30 days showed a 47% reduction in median plaque scores compared to the control group and a 24% reduction in the median calculus (tartar) index. Gingival health was also enhanced with a 100% reduction (based on median scores) of the Gingival Bleeding Index (GBI) in the Vet Aquadent® FR3SH™ group, compared to a 51% reduction in the control group⁽⁸⁾.

With 70% of cats and 80% of dogs showing clinical signs of periodontal disease by the age of two⁽⁹⁾, regular attention to oral hygiene plays a vital role in long‑term health and wellbeing.

Vet Aquadent® FR3SH™ features a mild mint flavour and is added to the pet’s drinking water for passive dental homecare.

““A combination of active and passive dental homecare is recognised by the WSAVA Global Dental Guidelines as a critical aspect of periodontal therapy.”said Aimee Lawrence, Product Manager at Virbac.“We are pleased that clinicians can continue to confidently recommend Vet Aquadent® FR3SH™ to their clients as part of their pet’s oral hygiene routine, with the added reassurance of efficacy that the VOHC provides”.

For more information on Vet Aquadent® FR3SH™, or any of the other products in the Virbac dental portfolio, please speak to your Virbac Territory Manager.



​]]> News Dawn Prime https://vetpol.co.uk/62921-vet-aquadent%C3%A2%C2%AE-fr3sh%C3%A2%C2%A2-awarded-vohc-seal