Much has happened in the year since Veterinary Practice magazine relaunched. Despite the uncertainties of Brexit dominating the headlines, the veterinary profession has driven lots of positive change in 2018.
Numerous advancements have been made in animal welfare: we have seen the ban of electric shock collars for pets in England, improvements in animal welfare at slaughter, movements to tackle the promotion of brachycephalic breeds and the illegal puppy trade, and further milestones reached in the pursuit to reduce antimicrobial use.
Positive change was seen within practices, too. A strong focus on the mental health and well-being of those working in the profession has been evident year-round. Discussions around embracing change and improving the way that different generations work together in practice have ensured that mindsets are evolving with changing times and the profession will be in the best possible position to adapt to uncertain circumstances going forward.
Key debates this year have stimulated important conversations around innovations such as telemedicine, wearable technology and artificial intelligence, and how to manage the big data that will inevitably result from these new products and services. The veterinary workforce is also developing, with a growing role for nurses and the likely integration of more paraprofessionals in the coming year.
Over these busy 12 months, Veterinary Practice contributors have provided a fantastic selection of insightful feature articles. Our top picks for 2018 include a variety of topics, with something of interest to everybody in the profession.
Diagnosing and treating cheyletiellosis
David Grant’s dermatology column is one of the most popular in the magazine; in this piece, he discusses how clinical signs of cheyletiellosis can vary and describes the options for treating the condition.
Achieving great customer care
Alison Lambert explains that there are four focuses that can help a practice achieve excellence in customer care: train, measure, manage, inspire.
Wound management in chelonians
Matthew Rendle and Samantha Ashfield provide a well-illustrated guide to assessing, treating and managing a range of wounds that may be encountered in chelonians.
Introducing the UK’s new Chief Veterinary Officer
In an interview with Veterinary Practice, Christine Middlemiss describes her key priorities for her first year as CVO.
The pre-purchase examination
As part of his “ask the experts” series, Kieran O’Brien asks two equine vets about the ins and outs, and potential pitfalls, of the pre-purchase exam.
Diagnosis and treatment of feline pancreatitis
Though clinical signs may not be severe, Clare Hemmings explains why it is important to take a proactive approach in the treatment of chronic feline pancreatitis.
Mindfulness for busy people
Laura Woodward provides useful advice for the mental health column in every issue; in this piece, she explains how just five minutes of mindfulness a day could help to improve your mental well-being.
Should dogs bitten by European adders be given antivenom?
In this summary piece from RCVS Knowledge, the authors consider whether antivenom should be administered in all cases of adder bites.
What are the options for oestrus suppression in mares?
Equine reproduction specialist Madeleine Campbell reviews the indications for oestrus suppression in mares, including the pros and cons of various treatment options.
Incomplete ossification of the humeral condyle
Turlough O’Neill, a specialist in small animal surgery, provides a guide to diagnosing and managing the condition commonly seen in dogs.
Is farm animal welfare a public good?
Our large animal correspondent suggests that more clarity may be needed over farm animal welfare considerations going forward.
“Pet labelling is required and needs to be entirely independently and objectively formulated”
A new regular contributor to Veterinary Practice, Clifford Warwick presents a compelling argument for changing the way pets are advertised.
Minimising stress during rabbit examinations
In this useful article, Iain Cope and Jessica Hawe explain how to tell if a rabbit is agitated and list considerations for keeping stress levels as low as possible.
The risk of Lyme disease exposure to UK dogs
Renowned parasites expert Ian Wright explains that with an increasing number of dogs at risk of Lyme disease, prevention is key.
