After three tremendous days of reconnecting with colleagues, refreshing knowledge on clinical content and re-invigorating strategies for well-being, The British Small Animal Veterinary Association (BSAVA) Congress 2022 at Manchester Central came to a close on Saturday 26 March.
Delegates, whether virtual or face-to-face, can continue to access CPD from the event online. With further pre-recorded material delving deeper into the topics discussed at Congress, there are many reasons to log-on.
“We’ve had a wonderful three days,” said BSAVA President, Sheldon Middleton. “Many of my favourite moments are the seemingly inconsequential ones, seeing colleagues serendipitously, bumping in to each other after years apart, for example. The networks that have been forged at or strengthened at BSAVA Congress 2022 will undoubtedly improve patient’s lives, support individual practitioners through hard times and push some to new heights in their careers. For many, it brings home the reality that we, in the veterinary profession, are part of a strong and vibrant community.
“Manchester Central has been the perfect backdrop. The venue’s historical architecture and natural light gives it a sense of destination. Together with the time and attention-to-detail exhibitors put into their stands, it’s facilitated a more welcoming and engaging feel to the exhibition. Vetoquinol’s climbing wall and vibrant stand went down a treat with visitors, who gave it the ‘Delegate Choice Award’ and the ‘Innovation Award for Delegate Engagement’.”
Another exhibitor award, “The Exemplary Award” went to IMV Imaging for its personal service and interactive explanation of its product. The winner of the “Best Newcomer” went to Virtual Recall for their creative and engaging stand.
“The programme has also been exceptionally well received,” said Sheldon. “Particularly the ‘Day in the life of…’, the Bourgelat Lecture and interactive sessions.”
The final drama of the Congress focused on reproductive issues, with a five-month-old rescue Labrador named Poppy and a four-year-old Golden Retriever called Lara in the spotlight. Poppy’s story provided the backbone for discussions on using EBM to help decision making, communication and team work as well as importance of sharing evidence. As Lara’s tale unfolded, delegates and speakers explored dystocia, the nurse’s role in whelping, C-sections, risks and costs, together with mental health awareness and teamwork.
Elisabetta Mancinelli, veterinary surgeon at Valley Exotics in Cardiff, in “Exotics: No longer the Unusual Pet” said: “There has been an increase of 212 percent in rabbits since March 2020. They have a peculiar anatomy – they are not small horses, they are not cats, they are not dogs. It is why they can die ‘unexpectedly’ – they have been sick for some time but as prey animals, they hide it and stress can tip them over the edge.”
She advised delegates to always have a referral vet’s contact available, even for advice.
In canine medicine, Hannah Donovon told delegates: “Every dog should have a safe haven within the home which is a positive and engaging space. The health triad – emotional, cognitive and physical health – are all interlinked.”
Interactive case-based sessions on neurology, oncology, internal medicine and exotics put delegates to the test, with learning opportunities throughout. While lively debates covered issues on the ethics of exotic pet ownership, reconstructive facial surgery and canine behaviour.
Veterinary nurses took centre stage in The Abstract Sessions when Claire Carr, Ana Costa and Abi Holder presented case reports, and Michelle Moran and Georgia Woods-Lee looked at canine medicine meets behaviour.
“BSAVA Congress 2022 has been an incredible three days,” said BSAVA Head of Events and Partnerships, Sarah Fitzpatrick. “It’s been a true honour to be part of the team that has facilitated an event that’s created and rekindled so many relationships across the industry and furthered the advancement of the veterinary profession.
“I’d like to thank everyone who has helped make it happen – from the delegates who joined us in Manchester, to the sponsors, exhibitors and speakers, and of course, the BSAVA staff and volunteers. See you next year!”
