Explore every episode of the podcast Vet Times Podcast

Ten years on from the introduction of compulsory dog microchipping in the UK – how much has really changed for pets, vets, charities and owners? As one of the UK’s leading pet microchip providers, Identichip brings together leading veterinarian Steve Leonard and Fiona Cooke, associate director of policy and impact at Woodgreen Pets Charity, for this Vet Times podcast. Together, they explore the impact of the legislation, ongoing challenges, registration compliance, success stories from practice and charity work and the importance of keeping details up to date. SPONSORED This Vet Times Extra podcast is sponsored by Identicare – the suppliers of Identichip microchips and the Defra-compliant pet database Identibase. Identicare supports vets and animal charities with high-quality microchips, scanners and a dedicated team to help with the full pet protection journey, from implantation and registration to keeping owner details up-to-date. For microchipping support and resources, contact Identichip or visit https://identichip.co.uk/ Steve Leonard qualified from the University of Bristol in 1996. His final year at university was filmed by the BBC for a documentary called “Vet School”. He went on to make many wildlife and veterinary documentaries taking him all over the globe and working alongside some of the planet’s most iconic species. Steve has remained a passionate small animal vet and passed his BSAVA Certificate in Small Animal Medicine with distinction in 2017. He is the co-founder of Phoenix Vet Practice, a new independent practice in Nantwich, Cheshire that opened in May 2026. Fiona Cooke is associate director of policy and impact at Woodgreen Pets Charity, where she leads the campaigns, policy, research and insights teams. With a background in animal welfare law and policy, she works on issues including pet identification, responsible ownership, and improving outcomes for pets and their owners. Fiona is also a registered clinical animal behaviourist, bringing practical and scientific expertise to her role. She’s passionate about animal welfare and keeping pets and people together and has published widely on animal welfare and issues affecting pet owners.

Amid falling Royal Kennel Club registrations of key brachycephalic dog breeds, RVC academics Dan O’Neill and Rowena Packer join Chris Simpson to discuss the efforts of the UK’s Brachycephalic Working Group. Prof O’Neill and Dr Packer provide updates on their latest research, the launch of the Innate Health Assessment tool [https://www.innatehealthassessment.org/] and discuss the role vets have to play in bringing an end to animals with extreme conformation. Podcast music: “Funky Chunk” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Chris Simpson sits down with new president of the North American Veterinary Community’s (NAVC) board of directors, Jon Townsend, to discuss his plans to expand mentorship opportunities across the profession during his presidential year. Dr Townsend also discusses the latest updates on the outbreaks of avian influenza in dairy herds across the United States and offers his take on veterinary telemedicine. Podcast music: “Funky Chunk” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

A month on from the Competition and Markets Authority’s (CMA) publication of its final remedies for the UK pet sector, vet leaders gathered at the Crowne Plaza Hotel for VMG Congress. VMG president Rebecca Robinson joined Chris Simpson to discuss the feeling among delegates about the measures and give her own thoughts on the CMA process. Podcast music: “Funky Chunk” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

With purebred and pedigree cats becoming increasingly popular among pet owners, Cats Protection feline welfare researcher Claire Roberts speaks about her recent welfare review of concerns associated with purebred cats with extreme features. Meanwhile, the charity’s associate director of advocacy, campaigns and external affairs, Madison Rogers, discusses Cats Protection’s campaign for cat breeding to be regulated across the UK. Podcast music: “Funky Chunk” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Chris Simpson sits down with Michael Q Bailey, president of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), to discuss the issues facing veterinarians in the United States. Dr Bailey discusses rural veterinary workforce shortages and the AVMA-sponsored legislation set to tackle the issue, the Combating Illicit Xylazine Act, and the latest efforts to combat the re-emerging threat of New World Screwworm. Podcast music: “Funky Chunk” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Allister Webb and James Westgate welcome a panel of industry experts to examine how the veterinary sector can move forward after the CMA investigation in a discussion recorded at SPVS Congress in Birmingham. Podcast music: “Funky Chunk” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

With the nomination deadline for the 2026 BVA Awards looming on 16 March, last year’s BVA Young Vet of the Year winner Leah Hunter joins Chris Simpson to talk about her experiences of winning the accolade and life as a mixed practice vet in Orkney. Dr Hunter, of Flett and Carmichael Veterinary Surgeons, was recognised for her “extraordinary dedication; compassion; unwavering devotion to her patients; and professionalism in all aspects of her work”. She also discusses her work with multiple charities as an Orkney Nature Festival trustee, a British Divers Marine Life Rescue medic and Scottish Marine Animal Stranding Scheme volunteer. Podcast music: “Funky Chunk” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

With consultations on reforming veterinary legislation now finally underway, BVA president Rob Williams returns to the podcast to discuss his hopes and fears for the process with Allister Webb. The consultation (https://consult.defra.gov.uk/reform-of-the-veterinary-surgeons-act/consultation/) is open for submissions until 25 March.    Podcast music: “Funky Chunk” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

With a long-awaited consultation on veterinary legislative reform now finally underway, Allister Webb is joined by Defra’s deputy chief veterinary officer Ele Brown to discuss what change might achieve for the sector. The consultation (https://consult.defra.gov.uk/reform-of-the-veterinary-surgeons-act/consultation/) is open for submissions until 25 March.    Podcast music: “Funky Chunk” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Image: Defra / GOV.UK

As the fourth anniversary of Russia’s invasion in Ukraine approaches, vets in the country – many of whom are fighting or serving as combat medics on the front lines as well as managing their clinics – are facing shortages of vital medicines and equipment. At the same time, rabies cases in wild and stray animals are on the rise, putting vets in further danger during the conflict. Ukrainian vet Daria Ponomarenko and ProSalus Foundation vice-president Mark Johnston, who visited the country last year, join Chris Simpson to discuss the issues facing vets as the war rages on and appeal for vital donations. Veterinary professionals can donate medicines, equipment and supplies, or make a financial donation, at the ProSalus website [https://prosalusfoundation.org/our-projects/#ukraine-section] or by emailing Dr Johnston at vice-president@prosalusfoundation.org. ProSalus is also holding a silent auction [https://www.vettimes.com/news/vets/wellbeing-at-work/art-sale-aims-to-boost-ukrainian-veterinary-work] of Ukrainian art [https://prosalusfoundation.org/product-category/different-together-series-by-anna-khomchyk/], raising funds for the Ukrainian Small Animal Veterinary Association. Podcast music: “Funky Chunk” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Burnout, mental health issues and staff turnover are challenges that continue to affect the veterinary profession. Angela Chapman, senior veterinary nursing lecturer at Melbourne Polytechnic and graduate researcher at La Trobe University, joins Chris Simpson to discuss her new vet nurse burnout prevention survey [https://www.veterinaryburnout.com.au/workplace-survey]. Podcast music: “Funky Chunk” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Allergic dermatitis is one of the most challenging chronic conditions we face in practice. Not just clinically, but because owners expect their dogs to return to “normal.”   In this podcast with Darren Berger, US board certified dermatologist and Elanco’s head of allergy and dermatology, we’ll look at the science behind Zenrelia, the new JAK inhibitor helping dogs get back to normal, and how it’s changing how we manage itchy dogs and their owners. Dr Berger is a American board-certified veterinary dermatologist with extensive experience in clinical practice, research and education. He is an accomplished speaker and an author and editor, having written many journal articles and his own textbook. He has special interests in clinical pharmacology and the management of allergic skin diseases and prior to joining Elanco Animal Health, he was a tenured professor at Iowa State University. Dr Berger resides in Iowa with his family, but you will often find him sharing his passion for dermatology through speaking events around the country and internationally. SPONSORED This podcast is sponsored by Elanco Animal Health, the company behind Zenrelia. Zenrelia™ film coated tablets contain ilunocitinib. Legal category POM-V in UK, POM in IE. For further information call Elanco Animal Health on +44(0)1256 353131 or write to: Elanco UK AH Limited, Form 2, Bartley Way, Bartley Wood Business Park, Hook, RG27 9XA, United Kingdom. For further information, consult the product SPC. Zenrelia, Elanco and the diagonal bar logo are trademarks of Elanco or its affiliates.
©2025 Elanco or its affiliates

Advice should be sought from the medicine prescriber prior to use. Prescription decisions are for the person issuing the prescription alone. Use medicines responsibly www.noah.co.uk/responsible or www.apha.ie
 References Forster S et al (2025). Comparative efficacy and safety of ilunocitinib and oclacitinib for the control of pruritus and associated skin lesions in dogs with atopic dermatitis, Vet Dermatol 36(2): 165-176. Olivry T, Bensignor E, Favrot C et al (2018). Development of a core outcome set for therapeutic clinical trials enrolling dogs with atopic dermatitis (COSCAD’18), BMC Vet Res 14(1): 238.   Links MyElanco: Zenrelia | New once-daily treatment for itchy dogs (https://my.elanco.com/en_gb/product-support/pet/zenrelia) Zenrelia SPC information can be found on MyElanco using the link above or on the VMD Product Information Database: Product Information Database - Home (https://www.vmd.defra.gov.uk/productinformationdatabase/)

SPONSORED In today’s episode, sponsored by Royal Canin, we celebrate 20 years of Royal Canin’s partnership with the University of Liverpool’s Obesity Care Clinic – the world’s first specialist weight loss clinic for cats and dogs. This pioneering collaboration has transformed obesity care, combining expert research with exceptional service for clients and referring vet practices. Join us as Georgia Woods-Lee and Professor Alex German share how the Royal Canin Obesity Care Clinic is shaping the future of pet health and the vital role vets can play in tackling obesity. In 2015, Georgia Woods-Lee took the position of clinical lead for the Royal Canin Weight Management Clinic (recently renamed the Royal Canin Obesity Care Clinic) at the University of Liverpool, Small Animal Teaching Hospital, where she is now dealing exclusively with pet obesity care and nutrition. Georgia was awarded her Certificate in Canine and Feline Veterinary Health Nutrition in 2017, the American Veterinary Technician Specialist (VTS) in nutrition certificate in 2019 , and her BSc (Hons) Veterinary Nursing (Top-up) degree in 2022. Georgia is currently working towards a PhD in pet obesity. Alex German holds the position of Royal Canin professor of small animal medicine at the University of Liverpool. He is a 1994 graduate of the University of Bristol and, after spending two years in mixed practice, returned to Bristol to undertake a PhD in mucosal immunology, and then a residency in small animal internal medicine. He is a diplomate of the European College of Veterinary Internal Medicine and also a RCVS-recognised specialist in internal medicine. His clinical and research interests include comparative obesity biology, ageing, preventing chronic disease, gastroenterology, and evidence-based veterinary medicine. For more on the clinic, visit its website at https://www.liverpool.ac.uk/small-animal-teaching-hospital/clinical-services/weight-management/

For this Vet Times Extra podcast, Paul Imrie is joined by RCVS advanced practitioner in small animal practice Richard Sanderson and professional services vet for IDEXX Carole MacColl to discuss faecal antigen testing. SPONSORED Parasites pose a serious threat to pets and people. But prevention alone may not be 100% effective. Updated industry guidelines now recommend intestinal parasite testing at least once a year, regardless of deworming. Combine your preventives with Faecal Dx antigen testing, and parasites don’t stand a chance. Faecal Dx antigen testing offers early, accurate detection of the most common intestinal parasites, even in well cats and dogs. Learn more at https://www.idexx.co.uk/en-gb/veterinary/reference-laboratories/fecal-testing/fecal-dx-antigen-test/?utm_source=vet_times&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=rlb_fecaldx_2025 The views and opinions in this recorded conversation expressed by the guest interviewee are the guest interviewee's own and do not necessarily reflect the views of IDEXX. Richard Sanderson, BVSc, CertAVP(SAP), MRCVS, is an RCVS advanced practitioner in small animal practice and director of Peninsula Vet Referrals. He graduated from the University of Liverpool in 2009. An advocate for independent veterinary practice, he founded Sanderson Vet in 2016. This started as a mobile vet and has developed into a 24-hour first opinion clinic. Already accepting a wide range of referrals, he formalised their referral services and opened Peninsula Vet Referrals, which focuses on offering “Affordable experience and accessible expertise”, aiming to make referrals more affordable and easier to access. Carole MacColl BVMS, PGCert, VetEd FHEA, MRCVS graduated from the University of Glasgow in 2011, and gained experience in first opinion practice before undertaking a rotating internship with a focus on emergency and critical care. She spent time as an ECC clinician in referral hospitals throughout Australia and the UK, before a role as a senior veterinarian in the RVC’s first opinion teaching hospital. Carole joined IDEXX as a professional services veterinarian covering the south of the UK in 2021.

Despite growing interest in preventive care, many veterinary teams face a tough reality: wellness testing isn’t always viable, and the data linking it to better patient outcomes is still emerging. Yet the logic remains compelling – earlier detection should mean earlier intervention – but should wellness testing become the norm in general practice? This episode explores the clinical value and operational realities when it comes to replacing the ‘wait and see’ with ‘track and find out.’ SPONSORED This podcast is sponsored by Zoetis, makers of the vetscan range of AI-powered diagnostic analysers, which includes the vetscan Imagyst, vetscan Opticell and vetscan VS2. For more information on the full range, speak to your Zoetis account manager to learn more or visit the website. (zoetisdiagnostics.com/us/point-of-care/chemistry/vetscan-vs2) Rory Cowlam BVetMed, PgCert, MRCVS, is a graduate of the RVC with more than a decade’s worth of experience in companion animal veterinary care. He is a certificate holder in small animal surgery and has a particular interest in preventative care. Rory works as clinical director of Pickles Vets in Fulham London and, as well as being known for his TV work with Pets Factor and more recently Blue Peter, he also serves as a charity ambassador for the RSPCA and StreetVet.

With many owners still struggling with the cost of caring for their pets, the crisis, together with wider economic pressures, is also having a significant impact on the charitable sector. Blue Cross director of veterinary services Paul Manktelow joins Allister Webb to discuss the issue and the radical changes his organisation is making in a bid to tackle it.   Podcast music: “Funky Chunk” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Angiostrongylus vasorum is a parasite affecting dogs in the UK often with devastating consequences. Over recent years we have seen an increase in prevalence of lungworm disease. In this podcast, veterinary parasitologist and professor Eric Morgan and Jenny Helm, RCVS specialist in small animal medicine and oncology referral clinician, discuss the prevalence of A vasorum in the UK, the gaps we have in the evidence to date, routine prevention for dogs and novel options for treatment. SPONSORED This podcast is sponsored by Zoetis, makers of Simparica Trio – the only oral moxidectin licensed to treat lungworm in dogs. Simparica Trio is licensed for the treatment of flea and tick infestations, the treatment and prevention of angiostrongylosis and the treatment of gastrointestinal roundworm and hookworm infections1. For more information on Simparica Trio, speak to your Zoetis account manager to learn more or visit the website (https://www2.zoetis.co.uk/veterinary-hub/companion-animal/dogs/products-and-solutions/simparica-trio/) References: 1. Simparica Trio SPC MM-44029 Eric Morgan MA, VetMB, PhD, DipEVPC, MRCVS qualified from the University of Cambridge vet school in 1997 and left mixed practice in Wales to complete a PhD at Warwick and Imperial College London on parasite ecology and epidemiology in Kazakhstan, joining the University of Bristol’s veterinary school in 2003. There he further developed teaching and research interests in parasite transmission, moving to Queen’s University Belfast in 2017. He is co-author of more than 200 peer-reviewed papers, seeking especially to understand the impact of weather and climate change on parasite infection patterns and how these can be managed, including for emerging parasites such as A vasorum. As diplomate of the European Veterinary Parasitology College and member of various national and international initiatives, he contributes to the development of sustainable parasite control strategies and their translation into practice. Jenny Helm, BVMS, CertSAM, Dip-ECVIM, CA FHEA, MRCVS, graduated from the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Glasgow in 2005, and following this undertook a small animal rotating internship at the RVC in London. She then spent a short spell in small animal practice before returning to Glasgow to undertake a residency in oncology and internal medicine at the University of Glasgow in 2006. Jenny obtained her RCVS certificate in small animal medicine in 2008 and passed her European College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ECVIM) certifying examination and became a diplomate of the ECVIM in September 2012. Jenny is interested in small animal oncology (especially promoting good quality of life and haematology) and has several academic publications in the fields of internal medicine and oncology, as well as an active research interest in canine lungworm (specifically A vasorum).

As the veterinary sector considers its response to the Competition and Markets Authority’s provisional remedy decisions, a new Big 6 podcast panel considers the current state of play and likely areas of ongoing debate. Joining Allister Webb are RCVS senior vice-president Linda Belton; SPVS board member Kate Higgins; BSAVA president Julian Hoad; British Veterinary Union chair Suzy Hudson-Cooke; IVC Evidensia CVO Gudrun Ravetz; and competition law academic David Reader. Credit for music: "Funky Chunk" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License

With more than 40,000 cases reported in Central America and Mexico since July 2023, the United States is preparing for a potential outbreak of the New World screwworm fly. The parasitic blowfly – whose flesh-eating larvae feed on the live tissue of warm-blooded animals – was officially eradicated from the US in 1966, but with a case in September less than 70 miles from the border, alarm bells are ringing. Texas vet Will McCauley joins Chris Simpson to discuss the role veterinarians will have to play in detecting and combating any potential outbreaks. Podcast music: “Funky Chunk” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

New BVA President Rob Williams joins Allister Webb to discuss his first few weeks in the role and the challenges facing the UK veterinary sector right now. Rob shares his thoughts on the Competition and Markets Authority’s provisional remedy recommendations, how the professions can help to secure legislative reform and how clinicians can help to shape a brighter future in their practice. Credit for music "Funky Chunk" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Speaking at BEVA Congress in September, vet and leading antimicrobial expert Scott Weese challenged current thinking on antibiotic course length and called for evidence to show that shortening courses can lead to the development of resistance. “How does [administering antibiotics] less cause more resistance?” he asked the packed amphitheatre (https://www.vettimes.com/news/vets/equine/vets-urged-to-treat-patients-not-lab-results-in-fight-against-amr) at Birmingham’s International Convention Centre. “It doesn’t. I’ll buy you a beer if you can give me a plausible explanation for that.” Here, Prof Weese and fellow antimicrobial expert Ian Battersby join Vet Times’ Chris Simpson to discuss the issue and the ongoing challenges surrounding antimicrobial stewardship. Podcast music: “Funky Chunk” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In this Vet Times Extra podcast, Paul Imrie is joined by Stephen Maxwell, veterinary advisor from MSD Animal Health, to discuss some of the queries to MSD Animal Health’s veterinary support line. SPONSORED Caninsulin has been a trusted brand for over 30 years and is used to treat diabetic cats and dogs. In the lead up to Pet Diabetes Month, we’ll talk through some common queries from MSD Animal Health’s Veterinary support service. MSD also offer a range of free diabetes resources designed to support practices and owners, as well as free diabetes CPD courses. To access these, visit the links below or contact your MSD Account Manager. https://www.msd-animal-health-hub.co.uk/ahp/caninsulin/tools https://msdchameleon.cordeo.net/ (printed materials) Stephen Maxwell is an MSD veterinary advisor and during the past year has been helping front-line veterinarians in the UK with their diabetic cases through technical product support. NOTE: All pets’ names in this broadcast have been changed to protect identities. Caninsulin® 40 IU/ml Suspension for Injection contains porcine insulin. POM-V. Further information is available from the SPC, datasheet or package leaflet. Advice should be sought from the medicine prescriber. Prescription decisions are for the person issuing the prescription alone. Use Medicines Responsibly. © MSD Animal Health UK Limited. UK-NON-250900041.

With an expected shortage of 24,000 companion animal veterinarians expected in the United States by 2030, the pressure is mounting on veterinary technicians to plug the gap. At the same time, vet techs are also dealing with familiar issues with retention, burnout, and underutilisation. Danielle Chesek, a certified vet tech and team lead for the vet tech programme at Penn Foster Group, joins Chris Simpson to discuss the role of veterinary technicians and the issues they’re facing. Podcast music: “Funky Chunk” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In today’s episode, sponsored by Droncit, from global animal health company Vetoquinol, we uncover a hidden but significant issue: tapeworm infections in pets and the serious consequences they can have for farmers. While often overlooked, untreated tapeworms in pets can contribute to the spread of disease to livestock, threatening farm productivity and livelihoods. Many commonly used ‘all-in-one’ parasite treatments don’t target tapeworms, which is why Droncit is calling on small animal vets to take the lead by raising awareness during consults and helping pet owners protect both their pets and the rural communities that depend on healthy livestock. Join us as we hear how farmers are impacted by tapeworm infections in pets and how small animal vet professionals can be a vital link in safeguarding farms from this often overlooked threat. Cat Henstridge BVSc MRCVS is a graduate of the University of Bristol’s vet school and has worked ever since in first opinion small animal practice. She has recently opened her own clinic with her husband and is enjoying the challenge. Her interests have always been in client communication and collaboration and she loves being able to work as a team with owners to help their pets get better. In addition to her real-life vetting, she also has a significant online presence as ‘Cat The Vet’, where she shares this passion, and many others, with her audience. Hannah Jackson main two passions in life are animals and adventure. In 2019 adventure loving Hannah completed the selection process for SAS-Who-Dares Wins. Surviving in arctic conditions in the Chilean Andes, Hannah was the first intake which included female recruits and was one of only two females to complete the course. She thrives on the extreme challenges and the ability to test both her physical and mental resilience and strength. As a farmer, Hannah’s love of wildlife has seen her complete a number of projects including contributing to a Killer Whale research project for Orca Lab, where she lived for weeks on a cliff in British Columbia in a tent with no running water or electricity whilst observing the impact of tourism on whale’s behaviour. Hannah has appeared on ‘Emma and AJ Get to Work’, ‘Countryfile’, ‘Country Showdown’, ‘Inside Out’ along with various other shows across the channels.

With avian flu and bluetongue continuing to pose challenges, plus the re-emergence of foot and mouth disease in mainland Europe, 2025 has so far been a year of growing unease at the threat from animal diseases. As politicians and industry groups voice their concerns about present and future challenges, Allister Webb asks what should vets really be concerned about and how ready are we to respond to the next major disease outbreak? Loic Jégou, Ceva Animal Health’s vice-president for Europe, joins Allister to share his thoughts on the current situation and what needs to be done to prevent a future crisis. Podcast music: “Funky Chunk” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

As the Government issues a plea to holiday makers not to bring back meat and dairy products from Europe amid concerns over foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), Chris Simpson speaks to the UK’s chief veterinary officer Christine Middlemiss. The plea comes as the Government launches an updated FMD control strategy to enhance its ability to prevent or respond to FMD outbreaks. An EU-wide ban on personal imports of meat and dairy was issued by Defra in April after a wave of cases were discovered in several countries across the continent. Podcast music: “Funky Chunk” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

With thousands of aspiring students waiting to hear if they’ve achieved the grades they need to go to vet school this autumn, Allister Webb takes a look behind the scenes at the University of Central Lancashire’s new veterinary training facilities in Preston. The department, which is preparing to welcome its third cohort in September, recently opened its new school building following a £40 million building project. Pete Holland, UCLan’s director of veterinary partnerships, joins Allister to discuss the school’s continuing development and some of the key issues currently facing the veterinary education sector. Podcast music: "Funky Chunk" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Ixodes species ticks have been spreading tick-borne encephalitis virus throughout Europe, and there are concerns about the zoonotic potential for the UK. Parasitologist Ian Wright discusses the latest situation in this Vet Times Podcast. Ian Wright, BVMS, BSc, MSc, MRCVS is a practising vet and co-owner of The Mount Veterinary Practice in Fleetwood, Lancashire. He has a master’s degree in veterinary parasitology and is head of the European Scientific Counsel Companion Animal Parasites (ESCCAP) UK and Ireland, and guidelines director for ESCCAP Europe. An accompanying article to this podcast, “The rise and rise of tick-borne flaviviruses”, is in Vet Times (2025), Volume 55, Issue 25, Pages 6-10. It is online at vettimes.com at https://www.vettimes.com/clinical/small-animal/the-rise-and-rise-of-tick-borne-flaviviruses

In this Vet Times Extra podcast, we're delving into the pivotal role that research plays in building our understanding of the human-animal bond. Dr Tammie King, senior research manager, and Dr Vanessa Ashall, human-animal interaction technical leader, are both experts from the Waltham Petcare Science Institute. SPONSORED The Waltham Petcare Science Institute is Mars Petcare’s science centre, where their mission is to improve the lives of pets through science, in support of their purpose of creating a better world for pets. Researchers at Waltham have recently launched the Pets and Wellbeing Study programme, known as PAWS. Working in collaboration with leading global academic institutions and experts, the multi-study PAWS programme will explore the relationships between pets and people and the role pets play in well-being across multiple geographies and demographics. Engaging more than 35,000 pet owners across more than 20 countries, this ambitious research programme aims to deepen our understanding of the mutual benefits of the human-animal bond through robust scientific data. Dr Tammie King is a member of the research leadership team at the Waltham Petcare Science Institute. Her passion lies in improving dog and cat health through evidence-based knowledge. In fact, Dr King holds a PhD in anthrozoology – the study of human-animal interactions – and a Bachelor of Science (Hons) in animal behaviour. Vanessa Ashall is technical lead for the PAWS research programme and is central to defining the research strategy. It’s Vanessa who holds responsibility for ensuring the portfolio of projects truly demonstrate Waltham’s commitment to robust, innovative and impactful research into the human-animal bond. Vanessa is a European veterinary specialist in animal welfare science, ethics and law, a bioethicist, a social scientist and a cross disciplinary HAI researcher.

In this podcast Phil Elkins discusses respiratory diseases in cattle, essentially preventive versus reactive care, and ensuring farm vets and farmers engage on countering the threats. Phil Elkins qualified in 2005 from The University of Edinburgh and, following stints in Cheshire and New Zealand, spent the majority of his career in clinical practice in Cornwall, during which time he gained a certificate in advanced veterinary practice in cattle. Following 15 years in clinical practice and a stint working for an agri-tech company, Phil now works as an independent consultant to both farms and industry bodies. He is a former council member of the BVA. He wrote “Respiratory disease in cattle: preventive versus reactive care” for Vet Times Livestock (2025), Volume 11, Issue 1, Pages 9-10 (which went out with Vet Times Volume 55, Issue 12). The article is available online at vettimes.com [https://www.vettimes.com/clinical/livestock/respiratory-disease-in-cattle-preventive-versus-reactive-care] SPONSORED This podcast is sponsored by Zoetis, which has recently launched Protivity, the UK’s first authorised Mycoplasma bovis vaccine for cattle. What if you could be proactive instead of reactive when it comes to Mycoplasma bovis? Protivity, the first modified-live vaccine for Mycoplasma bovis in cattle, is now available in the UK. The days of relying on antibiotics alone to help control Mycoplasma bovis are over. It’s time to change the game for your herds with Protivity. To learn more, UK veterinary professionals can visit the website. [https://bit.ly/4jRJxv3]

Vet Times was recently invited to the biggest vet show on earth – VMX in Florida, where we had the pleasure of catching up with the man behind it all, NAVC CEO Gene O'Neill…

In this Vet Times Extra podcast, Stephanie Armstrong, regional president at Zoetis, explores the mental health landscape in today’s veterinary profession, including the challenges and possible counteractions. Sponsored: As the world’s leading animal health company, Zoetis is driven by a singular purpose: to nurture our world and humankind by advancing care for animals. After innovating ways to predict, prevent, detect, and treat animal illness for more than 70 years, Zoetis continues to stand by those raising and caring for animals worldwide – from veterinarians and pet owners to livestock farmers and ranchers. The company’s leading portfolio and pipeline of medicines, vaccines, diagnostics and technologies make a difference in more than 100 countries. About the interviewee: Stephanie Armstrong is regional president at Zoetis, part of the Zoetis senior leadership team, where she oversees operations and growth across her team. A trained veterinarian and successful business leader, Stephanie encompasses a rare combination of frontline veterinary experience and strategic acumen in the animal pharmaceutical industry, making her uniquely positioned to drive innovation and impact across the animal health sector. An advocate for positive change with a one health approach, Stephanie is also deeply committed to supporting the mental health and well-being of veterinarians, recognising the unique challenges they face. Stephanie is headstrong in her commitment to breaking the stigma surrounding mental health in the industry, as it is a topic she is particularly passionate about, often talking about this global issue from a thought leadership perspective. Stephanie is dedicated to advancing the veterinary profession by elevating the voices of industry talent, advocating for vets, and shining a light on the critical challenges faced by both vets and livestock farmers today. As a member of the council at the RVC, Stephanie plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of veterinary education and advancing initiatives that bridge the academic and practical applications of animal care.

Speaking to editor James Westgate, Wellvet co-founder Liz Barton delves into the often tricky topic of menopause and discusses what can be done to support veterinary professionals impacted by perimenopausal symptoms. Liz also introduces Wellvet’s free expert menopause resources for veterinary teams, designed to help reduce the impact of physical and psychological symptoms in the clinic and beyond.... For access to these resources, visit https://www.wellvet.co.uk/resources/menopause-resources-for-veterinary-teams/

In this Vet Times Extra podcast, we discuss innovations in testing and diagnostics with Mars Science and Diagnostics’ chief medical officer Jimmy Barr – including what Antech has planned in the future. 𝗝𝗜𝗠𝗠𝗬 𝗕𝗔𝗥𝗥 𝗗𝗩𝗠, 𝗗𝗔𝗖𝗩𝗘𝗖𝗖 As chief medical officer (CMO) for Mars Petcare’s Science and Diagnostics division, James (Jimmy) Barr, DVM, DACVECC, oversees the quality organisation and leads delivery of medical care for the global Antech veterinary diagnostics business. Additionally, Jimmy serves a key role in connecting science and diagnostics with the Mars Petcare ecosystem and the veterinary profession. Most recently, Jimmy was Blue Pearl’s CMO, a position he held since 2018, growing the clinical affairs team and taking it to new levels of medical leadership and excellence. While serving as CMO of BluePearl, Jimmy helped establish the Board of Chief Veterinary Medical Officers, which is an important collective of more than 60 top veterinary medical leaders from across the profession representing various industry segments. Jimmy currently chairs the Board of Chief Veterinary Medical Officers. Jimmy holds undergraduate and veterinary degrees from Louisiana State University and completed his residency in emergency and critical care at Angell Animal Medical Center in Boston. Jimmy worked clinically at BluePearl starting in 2007 and served on the faculty at Texas A&M University before serving in BluePearl leadership. Find out more about Antech at stand G10 at London Vet Show or at https://antechdiagnostics.co.uk 𝗦𝗣𝗢𝗡𝗦𝗢𝗥𝗘𝗗 Experience one of the world’s largest reference laboratory networks, comprehensive in-house analysers and solutions, the most trusted diagnostic imaging equipment, advanced telemedicine and AI-powered solutions, and the flexibility to practice medicine your way. Antech. Smarter Diagnostics. Better Care.

In this Vet Times Extra podcast, George Giles and Becca Cavill join us to discuss innovations, AI and how technology and management tools are helping vets and farmers work together for livestock health, welfare and productivity. –––––––––– 𝗕𝗘𝗖𝗖𝗔 𝗖𝗔𝗩𝗜𝗟𝗟 𝗕𝗩𝗲𝘁𝗠𝗲𝗱, 𝗖𝗲𝗿𝘁𝗔𝗩𝗣(𝗖𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗹𝗲), 𝗠𝗥𝗖𝗩𝗦 Becca graduated from the University of Liverpool in 2003 and spent 18 years in clinical farm practice before becoming ruminant veterinary advisor for the south of the UK at Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health in 2021. –––––––––– 𝗚𝗘𝗢𝗥𝗚𝗘 𝗚𝗜𝗟𝗘𝗦 𝗕𝗩𝗠, 𝗕𝗩𝗦, 𝗗𝗕𝗥, 𝗠𝗥𝗖𝗩𝗦 George is a director of Giles and Parsons Farm Vets, a dairy-focused vet practice in Cornwall. His main areas of interest are change management and communication strategies to improve herd health and production. Working with a variety of dairy systems from extensive block calving herds to high yielding indoor systems, he actively seeks to challenge and motivate dairy farmers into making the most of their chosen system. |–––––––––– 𝗦𝗣𝗢𝗡𝗦𝗢𝗥𝗘𝗗 Optimax is an adaptable framework based on lean management principles to support farm vets in helping clients streamline processes, reduce waste while optimising calf health, and improve job satisfaction and farm productivity. Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health is working with vets to introduce the process with practical on-farm meetings.

One of the main items on the agenda at BCVA Congress 2024 in Newport was the bluetongue outbreak that many vets and farmers have faced up to over the past couple of months. Joining Vet Times’ chief reporter Allister Webb to discuss the situation and what we may be able to learn from it is Fiona Lovatt, who is a member of the Ruminant Health and Welfare bluetongue working group. 𝗙𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗔 𝗟𝗢𝗩𝗔𝗧𝗧 𝗕𝗩𝗦𝗰, 𝗗𝗦𝗛𝗣, 𝗣𝗵𝗗, 𝗗𝗶𝗽𝗘𝗖𝗦𝗥𝗛𝗠, 𝗙𝗛𝗘𝗔, 𝗙𝗥𝗖𝗩𝗦 Fiona is a European and RCVS-recognised specialist in sheep health and production. She runs the sheep veterinary consultancy company Flock Health, and is a clinical associate professor at Nottingham Vet School.

Osteoarthritis (OA) impacts cats and dogs, but considerations need to be tailored for each animal at every stage. To discuss the different approaches, Sophie Platt and Sarah Cooper join this episode of the Vet Times Podcast. They have jointly authored the article “OA: the impact on pets’ lives” for Vet Times (Volume 54, Issue 32, Pages 5-10), which can be found online at https://www.vettimes.co.uk/article/oa-the-impact-on-pets-lives/ ••• 𝗦𝗢𝗣𝗛𝗜𝗘 𝗣𝗟𝗔𝗧𝗧 𝗕𝗩𝗦𝗰, 𝗠𝗥𝗖𝗩𝗦 Sophie graduated from the University of Bristol in 2012, after first completing a BSc in Animal Science from the University of Nottingham. She spent a short time in mixed practice before settling into small animal first opinion work. On the pursuit of diversification, she gained a medical writing qualification and now splits her time between clinical work and running her veterinary writing business, enjoying the variety this brings. ••• 𝗦𝗔𝗥𝗔𝗛 𝗖𝗢𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗥 𝗕𝗩𝗲𝘁𝗠𝗲𝗱(𝗛𝗼𝗻𝘀), 𝗠𝗥𝗖𝗩𝗦 Sarah graduated from the RVC in 2003. Since graduation she has worked in small animal practice both as a general practitioner and at referral level. She is the clinical director at a Highcliff Veterinary Practice in Suffolk, as well as a freelance writer for Canine Arthritis Management and other organisations. She has special interests in small animal medicine, pain medicine and quality improvement. ••• 𝗦𝗣𝗢𝗡𝗦𝗢𝗥𝗘𝗗 Control osteoarthritis pain and inflammation for seven days with just one dose.   Daxocox is the only once-weekly, first-line NSAID for all stages of OA.   Want to learn more about Daxocox – and how it can help to improve client adherence? For further details, or to book a meeting with an Animalcare territory manager, visit https://www.animalcare.co.uk/daxocox_meeting/

Recorded live at BEVA Congress 2024 in Liverpool, Vet Times’ chief reporter Allister Webb talked to incoming president Bruce Bladon about his forthcoming year in office and the future of equine sport.

Recorded live at BEVA Congress 2024 in Liverpool, Vet Times’ chief reporter Allister Webb talks to one of the most successful British sportswomen of all time. As an athlete, Sally Gunnell won Olympic, World, European and Commonwealth titles. She opened the 2024 congress, spoke in the sessions looking at the social license of sporting competition, but still found the time to speak to Vet Times about former glories and where her ambition, hard work and tenacity have led her in the proceeding years.

A rapidly evolving discipline, oncology medicine has made significant strides in the past decade, and will continue that development in the coming years. To share some of the latest knowledge on diagnosis, staging and treatment, Nick Bacon joins this Vet Times Podcast. His article, “Oncology: update on diagnosis, staging and treatment options”, was in Vet Times (Volume 54, Issue 30, Pages 6-9) and is available at https://www.vettimes.co.uk/article/oncology-update-on-diagnosis-staging-and-treatment-options/ 𝗡𝗜𝗖𝗞 𝗕𝗔𝗖𝗢𝗡 𝗠𝗔, 𝗩𝗲𝘁𝗠𝗕, 𝗖𝗲𝗿𝘁𝗩𝗥, 𝗖𝗲𝗿𝘁𝗦𝗔𝗦, 𝗗𝗶𝗽𝗹𝗘𝗖𝗩𝗦, 𝗗𝗔𝗖𝗩𝗦, 𝗙𝗥𝗖𝗩𝗦 Nick was the BSAVA PetSavers resident in soft tissue surgery and oncology at the University of Cambridge, and completed a fellowship in surgical oncology at the Animal Cancer Center, Colorado State University. He was part of the surgical oncology faculty at the University of Florida from 2006-2014. Nick then moved back to the UK and was appointed professor of surgical oncology at the University of Surrey’s School of Veterinary Medicine. He co-founded Aura Veterinary, a referral hospital in Guildford, seeing patients from across the UK for consultations in medical, surgical and interventional oncology, internal medicine and soft tissue surgery. Nick is also a diplomate of the European and American colleges of veterinary surgeons (ACVS), a past-president of the Veterinary Society of Surgical Oncology and an ACVS founding fellow of surgical oncology.

With more than a third of cats now largely living their lives indoors, ensuring preventive health needs are met for the whole feline population has grown in significance. Vet Ellen Marcinkiewicz, of International Cat Care (iCatCare), covers more on this subject in this Vet Times Podcast. She has written an article to accompany this podcast for Vet Times (Volume 54, Issue 23, Pages 5-10) with Laura Watson, RVN at iCatCare, called “Preventive health care advice for indoor cats”. It is online at https://www.vettimes.co.uk/article/preventive-health-care-advice-for-indoor-cats/ ••• 𝗘𝗟𝗟𝗘𝗡 𝗠𝗔𝗥𝗖𝗜𝗡𝗞𝗜𝗘𝗪𝗜𝗖𝗭 𝗕𝗩𝗦𝗰, 𝗠𝗥𝗖𝗩𝗦 Ellen is communications manager at iCatCare. She is also a qualified veterinarian with more than eight years of experience in small animal practice, working in her home country of Australia and at the Massey University Veterinary Teaching Hospital in New Zealand. Ellen then moved to the UK, where she worked as a locum vet before making the transition into veterinary communications. ••• Resources for further information, some covered in the podcast, include: www.icatcare.org – for owner advice https://www.catcare4life.org/ – for veterinary professionals https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/1098612X13477537 – ISFM and AAFP Environmental Needs Guidelines https://www.abcdcatsvets.org/ – ABCD guidelines ESCCAP Guidelines: https://www.esccapuk.org.uk/ WSAVA Vaccination Guidelines: https://wsava.org/global-guidelines/vaccination-guidelines/

When it comes to ongoing, sustained management of OA, collaboration between the veterinary team and owners is vitally important. To talk more about this fascinating area, Ross Allan joins the Vet Times Podcast. ••• 𝗥𝗼𝘀𝘀 𝗔𝗹𝗹𝗮𝗻 𝗕𝗩𝗠𝗦, 𝗣𝗚𝗖𝗲𝗿𝘁𝗦𝗔𝗦, 𝗠𝗥𝗖𝗩𝗦 Ross graduated from the University of Glasgow in 2001, gaining his BSAVA Certificate in Small Animal Surgery in 2014 and RCVS Advanced Practitioner status in 2015. He is clinical director of referrals at Pets’n’Vets, Glasgow, where he leads Roundhouse Referrals, treating many lame dogs with orthopaedic injuries, as well as developing the team management of many osteoarthritic patients. His article, “Sustained management of OA”, was in Vet Times (Volume 54, Issue 29, Pages 6-11) and is available to read in full at https://bit.ly/3WPRwOs

In this sponsored Vet Times Extra podcast, Ginny Sherwin and Kath Aplin join us to discuss NSAID use and pain relief in calves. For more than 20 years Metacam has been at the forefront of cattle well-being. The proven and trusted anti-inflammatory pain relief provided by Metacam supports farmers and veterinarians in their efforts to maintain well-being across many indications. Contact your local Boehringer Ingelheim ruminant specialist or vetenquiries@boehringer-ingelheim.com for further advice and resources. ••• 𝗚𝗜𝗡𝗡𝗬 𝗦𝗛𝗘𝗥𝗪𝗜𝗡 𝗠𝗔, 𝗩𝗲𝘁𝗠𝗕, 𝗠𝗩𝗠, 𝗗𝗶𝗽𝗘𝗖𝗕𝗛𝗠, 𝗣𝗵𝗗, 𝗠𝗥𝗖𝗩𝗦 Ginny qualified from the University of Cambridge in 2011 and completed a farm animal internship before going into private practice. In 2014  she undertook a residency, then a PhD, at the University of Nottingham, becoming a European specialist in 2017. She is currently a clinical assistant professor at the University of Nottingham, focusing on herd health, especially youngstock management.   ••• 𝗞𝗔𝗧𝗛 𝗔𝗣𝗟𝗜𝗡 𝗕𝗩𝗦𝗰, 𝗖𝗲𝗿𝘁𝗖𝗛𝗣, 𝗠𝗥𝗖𝗩𝗦 Kath is a veterinary advisor with Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, providing technical support for Boehringer’s ruminant range of medicines. Before joining Boehringer, Kath spent 20 years as a farm vet in Somerset, New Zealand and Cumbria. Kath has a particular interest in knowledge exchange and improving health and well-being in agriculture and recently gained an MSc in sustainable food and agriculture policy.

In this VN Times podcast, editor Lacey Pitcher RVN discusses the broad opportunities of a vet nurse passport with Donna Wills, an RVN and animal physiotherapist. Donna shares her career pivots and the decisions that have led her to now support from the other side of the consult table to provide more holistic care for animals and their people. ••• 𝗗𝗢𝗡𝗡𝗔 𝗪𝗜𝗟𝗟𝗦 𝗥𝗩𝗡, 𝗣𝗴𝗖𝗲𝗿𝘁 𝗔 𝗣𝗵𝘆𝘀, 𝗠𝗜𝗥𝗩𝗔𝗣(𝗩𝗣) Donna qualified as a veterinary nurse in 2003 and has worked in small animal practices, veterinary hospitals, ECC and rescue homes. Having qualified as an animal physiotherapist in 2005, Donna set up Animal Physiotherapy Ltd and went on to establish physio clinics in the south of England, hosted by five veterinary practices and the Pet Spa at Harrods – the latter of which led to media work. Outside of work, Donna is a keen gymnast, and is proud to have represented Britain in the Masters Cup at the age of 42.

In this Vet Times Podcast, sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, Eric Morgan, professor of veterinary parasitology at Queen’s University Belfast, discusses the prevalence of Toxocara in the environment and why vets should care. Toxocara is a zoonotic parasite endemic throughout the UK and Ireland and has been associated with multiple human health conditions including asthma and reduced cognitive function. Eric, a recognised specialist in parasitology, brings insights from his research into parasites, especially helminths, to advise what can be done, such as the importance of monthly worming, to reduce the risk of Toxocara spread and infection. The podcast is part of Boehringer Ingelheim’s support for vets to improve health and well-being of pets and pet owners through their range of medicines. ••• 𝗘𝗥𝗜𝗖 𝗠𝗢𝗥𝗚𝗔𝗡 𝗠𝗔, 𝗩𝗲𝘁𝗠𝗕, 𝗣𝗵𝗗, 𝗗𝗶𝗽𝗘𝗩𝗣𝗖, 𝗠𝗥𝗖𝗩𝗦 A professor in veterinary parasitology at Queen’s University Belfast, Eric Morgan is a diplomate of the European Veterinary Parasitology College (DipEVPC). His research interests centre on the epidemiology of animal diseases under climate change, and consequences for their management. Over the past 20 years he has developed a research programme on the dog lungworm Angiostrongylus vasorum, involving studies on the epidemiology of this emerging infection in dogs, foxes and gastropod intermediate hosts. Prof Morgan supports the development and dissemination of best practice in parasite control through industry and government bodies, including the European Scientific Counsel Companion Animal Parasites (ESCCAP).

Refractory, or pharmacoresistant epilepsy affects one in three dogs with epilepsy, and defines them as having frequent and severe seizures, despite appropriate drug therapy. Specialist vet Mark Lowrie joins the Vet Times Podcast to explain some of the challenges for diagnosis, treatment and ongoing management of the condition Dr Lowrie has written an article on this topic for Vet Times (Volume 54, Issue 18, Pages 6-12), called “Canine refractory epilepsy – management considerations”, which is available at https://www.vettimes.co.uk/article/canine-refractory-epilepsy-management-considerations/ ••• 𝗠𝗔𝗥𝗞 𝗟𝗢𝗪𝗥𝗜𝗘, 𝗠𝗔, 𝗩𝗲𝘁𝗠𝗕, 𝗠𝗩𝗠, 𝗗𝗶𝗽𝗘𝗖𝗩𝗡, 𝗠𝗥𝗖𝗩𝗦 An RCVS specialist in veterinary neurology, Mark qualified from the University of Cambridge and then worked in first opinion small animal practice. Following an internship at the RVC, he moved to the University of Glasgow to complete a residency in veterinary neurology. He has a master’s degree in steroid responsive meningitis-arteritis in dogs and has a particular interest in involuntary muscle contractions, reflex epilepsy, inflammatory central nervous system disease and feline neurology. He is a director at Movement Referrals, a veterinary consultant to the International Society of Feline Medicine and Petplan’s “Vet of the Year” 2022.

Worms are evolving and sheep farming methods are changing – but how are vets to keep pace? In this Vet Times Extra podcast, sponsored by Zolvix from Elanco, we speak to Davinia Hinde of Bainbridge Vets and sheep consultant Dr Nerys Wright, who address the question. We cover everything from the business challenges of encouraging best practice worm management, and what that looks like. The pair also share their ideas and experiences on how to encourage better engagement from sheep farmers. ••• 𝗗𝗔𝗩𝗜𝗡𝗜𝗔 𝗛𝗜𝗡𝗗𝗘 𝗕𝗩𝗲𝘁𝗠𝗲𝗱, 𝗖𝗲𝗿𝘁𝗔𝗩𝗣(𝗦𝗵𝗲𝗲𝗽), 𝗠𝗦𝗰, 𝗠𝗥𝗖𝗩𝗦 Davinia qualified from the RVC in 2006 where she entered mixed practice at Bainbridge Vets, North Yorkshire and has been in the Dales ever since. An RCVS advanced practitioner in sheep health and production and has an MSc in ruminant nutrition, Davinia was the second vet in the UK to hold a certificate in advanced veterinary practice in sheep. She is a European College of Small Ruminant Health Management resident in small ruminant health and production and a member of the Sustainable Control of Parasites in Sheep (SCOPS) executive committee. Davinia is also a member of the Sheep Veterinary Society’s executive committee and an assessor for the RCVS on the advanced practitioner panel. ••• 𝗡𝗘𝗥𝗬𝗦 𝗪𝗥𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗧 𝗕𝗦𝗰, 𝗣𝗵𝗗 An independent sheep consultant with 17 years’ experience in the industry, Nerys is a technical advisor to SCOPS and obtained her farm animal SQP qualification in 2012. Brought up on a beef and sheep farm in Wales, Nerys completed her undergraduate and, later, her PhD in sheep production at The University of Nottingham. ••• Resources for further information to this podcast can be found at the following links: https://www.scops.org.uk/ https://www.nadis.org.uk/ https://ahdb.org.uk/knowledge-library/parasite-control-guide https://ahdb.org.uk/knowledge-library/worm-control-in-sheep https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/animal-health-and-welfare-pathway/animal-health-and-welfare-pathway https://www.MyElanco.co.uk https://www.farmanimalhealth.co.uk

Otitis externa is a common condition in dogs and cats and one requiring much veterinary input to treat and manage. To share some of her thoughts on the disorder, European veterinary dermatology specialist Irina Matricoti joins the Vet Times Podcast. 𝗜𝗥𝗜𝗡𝗔 𝗠𝗔𝗧𝗥𝗜𝗖𝗢𝗧𝗜 𝗗𝗩𝗠, 𝗗𝗶𝗽𝗘𝗖𝗩𝗗 Irina obtained her degree in 2008 from the University of Bologna. Afterwards, she worked in small animal practice and, during 2008-10, completed a postgraduate programme in veterinary cytology. More recently, between 2016-19, she completed a residency programme in veterinary dermatology and became a European-certified specialist. Irina now works as a dermatology specialist in private practice and at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital of the University of Bologna. Her article for Vet Times (Volume 54, Issue 22, Pages 8-11), “Otitis externa – treating and managing a painful condition”, is online at https://www.vettimes.co.uk/article/otitis-externa-treating-and-managing-a-painful-condition/

Hypertension is serious condition in cats, and likely under-diagnosed in practice. Feline specialist Sam Taylor joins the Vet Times Podcast to run through some of the diagnostic and treatment considerations. 𝗦𝗔𝗠𝗔𝗡𝗧𝗛𝗔 𝗧𝗔𝗬𝗟𝗢𝗥 𝗕𝗩𝗲𝘁𝗠𝗲𝗱, 𝗖𝗲𝗿𝘁𝗦𝗔𝗠, 𝗗𝗶𝗽𝗘𝗖𝗩𝗜𝗠-𝗖𝗔, 𝗠𝗔𝗡𝗭𝗖𝗩𝗦(𝗠𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗖𝗮𝘁𝘀), 𝗙𝗥𝗖𝗩𝗦 Sam is a feline specialist working for the International Society of Feline Medicine as its academy lead, and also at Lumbry Park Veterinary Specialists as a medicine specialist. She also works clinically as a locum specialist in various clinics, seeing canine and feline medicine cases. She wrote the article, “Feline hypertension – latest on diagnostics and treatment”, in Vet Times (Volume 54, Issue 15, Pages 6-10), which is also available at www.vettimes.co.uk/article/feline-hypertension-latest-on-diagnostics-and-treatment/