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WSAVA Monthly NEWs - December, 2008 WSAVA World Congress – Sao Paulo July 21-24, 2009 The legendary beauty of Brazil and hospitality of Sao Paulo await attendees of the 34th WSAVA World Congress in Sao Paulo Brazil from July 21-24, 2009. Brazil is a country of 8.5 million square kilometers, occupying almost half (47%) of Latin America, and is home to 20% of the world’s biodiversity, including the Amazon Tropical Forest. With over 10 million inhabitants, Sao Paulo is the world's third largest city and the largest in South America, and its attraction lies in its people and its vibrant cultures. As Brazil's most modern, cosmopolitan city, Sao Paulo has much to offer in addition to its outstanding cuisines. Its museums are among the finest in South America, its surrounding coastline is graced with many lovely beaches, and its entertainment and nightlife have for years attracted some of the best performers in the world. In July, 2009 another city feature will be the WSAVA World Congress. Expected to draw over 3,000 veterinary attendees and their families from all over the World, the Congress will be paired with the Pet South America Exhibition, the largest showcase of pet-specific products and services in South America. The scientific program is set and features over 80 world-renowned veterinary lecturers covering over 30 disciplines in 9 simultaneous session streams, including 7 State-of-the-Art Lectures (SOTALS), a WSAVA Animal Welfare stream, and a North American Veterinary Conference stream. This will not only be complemented by the vibrancy of Sao Paulo itself, but also by a lively social program that will include opening and closing ceremonies, as well as a Gala Dinner. Visa Requirements
For some visitors a Visa will be required for entry into Brazil. However, for others holding a valid passport from a country with a diplomatic agreement with Brazil, it may not be necessary. A listing of countries where such an agreement is in place is available on the WSAVA 2009 Congress website, although a definitive answer is best received from the Brazilian Consulate in your own country.
So don’t delay – register today! Online registration is available at www.wsava2009.com and early registration specials still exist. WSAVA Dublin World Congress Follow Up The 33rd Annual WSAVA Congress and 14th FECAVA Congress was held in Dublin on 20 – 24, August 2008. Many attendees asked about the logo for the meeting and what it symbolized. The logo for the conference was designed by Kerry Phelan (Cork). Kerry is a graphic designer who has designed veterinary motifs and logos previously. The stylized Celtic design was based on the Celtic motif found on the entrance stone to New grange, a stone-age tomb located in the Boyne valley close to Dublin. The logo has three spirals, which reflect the three organizations involved in the Congress: WSAVA, FECAVA, and VICAS. The shades of green spiral around each other represent the green hills of Ireland and the movement and spirit of the Irish people through music and dance. The V represents the veterinary theme and Veterinary Ireland. WSAVA Activities and Committee Reports
WSAVA Continuing Education in Beijing, China On September 17, 2008, the Beijing’s Small Animal Veterinary Association (BSAVA) held their CE program for 2008. The speaker was Dr Terry King, from Veterinary Specialist Services Pty Ltd. Dr. Terry delivered 6 hours of CE about Emergency Veterinary Medicine & Critical Care. His lecture was very meaningful and helpful. Over 200 veterinarians were in attendance along with a small number of students. Thanks to our sponsors WSAVA, Bayer Healthcare, Hill’s Pet Nutrition, and Intervet/Schering Plough Animal Health who also had company representatives in attendance. Thank you as well to the translator Dr. Shu Dai from Hill’s Pet Nutrition for his excellent translation work. WSAVA Member Association Updates
WSAVA Welcomes Its 3 New Member Associations Montenegro Association of Small Animal Practitioners (MASAP) – Full Member
Established in March 21, 2007, it currently has 12 members and has also been a member of FECAVA since November, 2007.
WSAVA Representative: Dr. Perdrag Stojovic Federation of Small Animal Practitioner Associations of India (FSAPAI) – Full Member
On the advice of the Assembly of WSAVA, the Pet Practitioner Association of Mumbai (PPAM), which was representing India to the WSAVA for the last 5 years, took the lead in contacting regional Small Animal Veterinary Practitioner Associations from India and persuading them to come together as a Federation for WSAVA membership. This has resulted in formation of one platform to represent India as one large group of Small Animal Practitioners, appropriately named the Federation of Small Animal Practitioners of Association of India (FSAPAI).
The total membership of FSAPAI is 616 with names and number of members of the Regional Associations comprising FSAPAI are:
• Pet Practitioners Association of Mumbai (PPAM): 180
• Small Animal Practitioners Association of Chennai (SAPAC) 121
• Goa Veterinary Association: 65
• Pet Practitioners Association of Karnataka (PPAK): 120
• Small Animal Veterinary Association of Delhi (SAVA): 55
• Small Animal Clinicians Association (SACA), Chandigarrh 35
• Pet Practitioners Association of Twin City (Hyderabad and Secunderabad) 35
WSAVA Representative: Dr. Umesh Karkare Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Society (VECCS) – Affiliate Member
The VECCS was originally organized as the Veterinary Critical Care Society (VCCS) with a set of established bylaws in 1978. Members of the Veterinary Anesthesia Society merged with VCCS in 1983. The name of the organization was changed to its current VECCS when the American Association of Veterinary Emergency Clinicians joined the Society in July, 1984. Membership has grown from approximately 200 in 1985 to 3,400 today. The membership represents a variety of areas of veterinary medicine, including private general practice, specialty referral practice, emergency practice, and teaching institutions. Membership is worldwide with representation from more than 25 countries located on every continent.
As of August, 2008, the number of VECCS members was: 2,500 veterinarians and 900 veterinary technicians/nurses
WSAVA Representative: Dr. Gary Stamp. NEWS From Around the World
American Veterinary Medical Association Assembles Animal Travel Requirements
The AVMA has dedicated an area of its Web site as a listing of links to reliable resources on domestic and international travel requirements for animals.
The current listing links to Web sites sponsored by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, U.S. Department of State, United Kingdom, and European Union.
To access the site, go to www.avma.org and click on Reference and then “Travel requirements for animals, Resources on domestic and international.” The direct link is www.avma.org/reference/travel_requirements.asp. New York, NY United States: Good Citizen Resolutions
California has joined the growing list of states that have passed American Kennel Club® (AKC) Canine Good Citizen® (CGC™) resolutions. Senate Concurrent Resolution 1148 endorses the CGC program and acknowledges that problems related to dogs are really problems about the need for responsible dog ownership. With the addition of California, in total 35 states have adopted CGC resolutions, including Alabama, Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and the U.S. Senate. CGC is a 10-step certification program that rewards dogs with good manners at home and in the community. Viewed as the first step in dog training, CGC lays the foundation for other AKC activities such as obedience, agility, rally, tracking and performance events. CGC is one of the fastest growing programs at AKC and it has become a model for similar programs adapted in countries such as England, Australia, Japan, Hungary, Denmark and Canada. Additionally, police and animal control agencies use CGC for dealing with dog problems in communities; therapy dog groups use CGC as a partial screening tool; and, some 4-H groups around the country have been using the CGC as a beginning dog training program for children. To find out more about the CGC Test or Evaluator, visit: http://www.akc.org/events/cgc/training_testing.cfm?page=3 BSAVA December 2008
__________________________________________ WSAVA Monthly NEWs - November, 2008 Message from David Wadsworth, WSAVA’s Newly Elected President What a Congress! The recent WSAVA world Congress held in Dublin Ireland was a huge success. Dr. Nicola Neumann and her team deserve huge praise for staging an event that attracted over 2000 veterinarians from all corners of the globe who took part in cutting edge post graduate education and enjoyed, in full, all aspects of the traditional Irish Hospitality. If I say that the biggest gathering of small animal veterinary surgeons in Ireland had previously been about 100 veterinarians, it will give you some idea of the level of achievement,
Next year, in 2009, the Congress will change continents and hemispheres moving to Sao Paulo in Brazil where the team from ANCLIVEPA will put on a programme which will deal with traditional subjects and also deal with the animal welfare aspects of life in South America.
We are fortunate in having Hill’s Pet Nutrition as a long-term Congress Prime Partner and their assistance was of immense value in Dublin. We look forward to many years of symbiotic benefit to both parties.
WSAVA is not just a Congress! Our Continuing Education programme which is sponsored by out partners, Bayer Healthcare, Intervet-Schering Plough, and Hill’s Pet Nutrition reaches 4000 veterinary surgeons in 30 countries around the world. This ambitious program is in it’s 16th year and we are looking forward to holding extra meetings in Central America and Asia in the next 12 months. We are also developing a program in Africa where under the guidance of Dr. Lawson Cairns, our Association partners AFVAC, BSAVA, and NACAM are assisting in providing speakers and finance to help this project (see later news item in this issue).
The Standardization projects are of cutting edge importance in the Academic world and I am delighted to report on the findings from the WSAVA Hill’s GI standardisation Group at the Dublin Conference. Prof. Robert Washabau and his group have done excellent work and their efforts are to be recorded in a photographic atlas to be published next year. The WSAVA Hill’s Hepatic Standardisation project is to be reviewed during the next 12 months as are the WSAVA Intervet-Schering Plough Vaccination guidelines. Prof Marian Horzinek is this time reviewing the protocols for non-core vaccines. The WSAVA Hill’s/Bayer Renal Standardization Group are commencing with their 5 year project and will make an interim report in Sao Paulo – there is no rest for the academic world when they are involved in WSAVA!
We are looking forward in the next 12 months to heightening the awareness of animal welfare in the veterinary world with high profile activity at congresses in Bangkok (the FASAVA Conference) and Orlando (TNAVC). The aspiration is that we will take the lead as spokesman for companion animal welfare in the world. Our co-chairmen Drs. Ray Butcher and Roger Clarke have vast experience in this field and will continue to work closely with other organisations to achieve our goals.
Our Hereditary Defect committee supported by WALTHAM are now well into their programme of investigating the canine genome and working on the hereditary defects seen in the various species. Prof. Urs Giger reported in Dublin on the work to date and a verbal report will be given as a lecture in Sao Paulo.
None of this could be achieved without the help and dedication of a large army of volunteers – the Assembly members. There are too many to mention by name but they are responsible for taking news and comment to and from the member associations and overseeing the work of the Board. I would like to thank them for all their efforts past – and that I will be asking that they do in the next 12 months! Lastly I would like to mention the Board (by name!) Dr. Brian Romberg the new Past President whose wise counsel will be used in reviewing the constitution and SOPs, Prof. Dr. Jolle Kirpensteijn whose skills acquired with Voorjaarsdagen are being utilized in monitoring our Congress and Sponsorship programmes, Dr. Luis Tello who is the PR Guru and will also take on the Strategic Planning portfolio, Dr. Walt Ingwersen, a past editor of the AAHA Journal whose skills will be well utilized as Hon. Secretary (and WSAVA Editor), and Dr. Di. Sheehan, the Hon Treasurer, who ran the successful WSAVA Sydney Congress and will be helping Dr. Tello with the Strategic Planning.
It is going to be a very exciting year, the world is changing fast, and WSAVA is going to go with it. I will report in 6 months time but in the mean time – make a date in your diary to come to Sao Paulo July 21-24, 2009 – or miss out on the best that the veterinary profession has to offer! Our President – a Brief Profile
David Wadsworth graduated from Glasgow University, Scotland in 1968. He initially was employed in the well known Pool House Veterinary Hospital in Lichfield in the centre of England where he spent most of his time working with large animals. The practice was truly mixed and gave him an excellent grounding in both the art and science of small animal veterinary surgery. He then moved to Skipton in the Yorkshire Dales to work in a practice that was “James Herriott” in terms of time, place, and ethos. Subsequently he “set up his plate” and founded the practice of which he is still sole owner and principal in Blackpool on the North-West coast of England. The practice is entirely small animal and has four veterinary surgeons and six veterinary nurses and trainees working in it.
He became interested in veterinary politics in the 1980’s becoming secretary of the local Fylde clinical club and then moving on to become Hon. Sec. of the North-West BSAVA and President of the Lancashire Veterinary Association – a multidisciplinary arm of the British Veterinary Association. Nationally he was spokesperson for the BVA on small animal topics for 6 years and President of the BSAVA in 1998. He served on BSAVA Congress Committee for 7 years, being chairman from 1992 – 1995, and was responsible for the WSAVA Congress Social Programme in 1989. He delivered the bid to host the 1997 WSAVA Congress and chaired the steering committee until 1996.
Internationally he has served as WSAVA Assembly member for the UK from 1996 – 1999 and then as Hon Sec for WSAVA, 1999 – 2004, followed by the Presidential Officer progression.
He sits on the RCVS Preliminary Qualifications Sub-Committee in the UK, has served on University Accreditation Visitations, and was a committee member of the British Safety Standards for Dog Muzzles. He had a commercial interest as director of Centaur Services – a wholly veterinary owned wholesaling company from 1992 – 2005.
He is married to Jane and has three children and six grandchildren who leave little time for his hobbies of Alpinism, hill walking, and bird watching. WSAVA Presidents Award
This year marked the introduction of the WSAVA Presidents Award, which will be presented on a time to time basis by the President of the WSAVA to a member of the WSAVA in recognition of the recipient’s outstanding contribution to the association.
The recipient will be selected by the Executive Board and the award shall be presented during the Assembly meeting and shall consist of a commemorative plaque, a lapel pin, plus complimentary congress registration and two tickets to the formal congress social event.
This year’s inaugural recipient was Dr. Hans Klaus Dreier, pictured at left, receiving the Award from then President Dr. Brian Romberg at the Assembly meeting in Dublin, Ireland. A graduate of the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Dr. Dreier returned to do post-graduate work in veterinary theriogenology, eventually becoming assistant head of the Department of Reproduction. In 1986 he changed careers paths to open a general and specialty small animal veterinary clinic with his wife, Dr. Christine Dreier in Baden, Austria where he still practices today. He has lectured and published extensively in the field of small animal reproduction. He has also had a long-standing involvement with various veterinary medical associations, first with VOEK, being its president from 1992-1998, and then with the WSAVA in various capacities including chair of the CE committee, Finance Advisory Committee member, Chair 16th WSAVA World Congress Organizing Committee, and WSAVA President from 1998-2000.
Congratulations to Dr. Dreier! WSAVA Member Association Updates
Update on Continuing Education in Southern Africa – Dr. Lawson Cairns, Coordinator
• Meeting held at the Malelane farm, which is the research farm belonging to Intervet – Schering Plough, on April 20. There were 32 attendees from the local area and from Mozambique. Dr. Kenneth Joubert presented on Anesthesia and Pain Management. The talk was well received and this group is keen for additional WSAVA-organized CE..
• WSAVA has commited to sending a speaker from South Africa, topic to be determined, to the Mozambique congress to be held in Maputo at the end of October. The lecturer is due to speak for a morning session and Dr. Cairns will also attend as the WSAVA representative.
• WSAVA is helping to sponsor Dr. Remo Lobetti as a day-long lecturer at the Veterinary Association of Namibia annual conference in Swakopmund.
• Both the Kenyan Veterinary Association and the Zambian Veterinary Association have forwarded requests for WSAVA sponsorship/assistance for upcoming CE and this is currently in the process of being finalized.
__________________________________ WSAVA Monthly NEWs – October 2008 WSAVA 2008 Dublin Congress Highlights The beautiful and lively city and people of Dublin, Ireland welcomed 2,870 attendees representing 86 countries during the 33rd WSAVA Congress held from August 20-24, 2008. The top countries of attendee origin, contributing over 100 delegates each, were Ireland, the United Kingdom, The USA, Australia, Canada, France, and Germany. The Congress was suitably held at the Royal Dublin Society (RDS), which was founded in 1731 to promote the development of agriculture, arts, science, and industry in Ireland, and housed on grounds that cover 40 acres in the heart of Dublin. The continuing education (CE) program was comprised of 235 Congress lectures (including 4 State-Of-The-Art Lectures or SOTALs) accommodated into 8 streams presented by 75 world-renowned veterinary scientists covering over 20 disciplines. This was complemented by 27 oral or poster Abstract presentations and 3 Pre-Congress meetings that provided 14 additional lectures in the areas of veterinary emergency and critical care, feline, and avian medicine. As well, the Animal Welfare track continues as a Congress highlight, attracting more attendees year-over-year, with an additional track on hereditary diseases organized by the WSAVA Committee of the same name, and an update on the tremendous accomplishments of the GI Standardization Group, presented by Dr Robert Washabau. The Congress was supported by WSAVA Prime Partner Hill’s, and Partners Fort Dodge, Nestle Purina, Pfizer, Novartis, and Bayer who joined the 135 exhibitor strong Exhibition Hall. Evenings were spent meeting old friends and making new ones at a variety of lively social events. The Opening Ceremonies took place on Thursday, August 21 at the RDS and featured the dynamic Irish musical group Electric Ceili, opening addresses from a variety of dignitaries, presentation of the WSAVA Awards (see later), and a parade of Irish dog breeds. This was followed by a cocktail party on the RDS grounds while enjoying a live sheepdog trial demonstration and a display from the Irish Pony Club. Friday night played host to the Gala Evening, which began with a champagne reception in the airy conservatory overlooking the lake on the leafy grounds of the University College Dublin campus, followed by a 5-course banquet at O’Reilly Hall. After dinner festivities including the passing of the Presidential Chain of Office from out-going President Dr Brian Romberg to incoming president Dr. David Wadsworth and culminating in a lively evening of dancing to the sounds of “Boogie Nights”, Ireland’s number 1 party band. On Saturday night, attendees were treated by event sponsor Merial to a traditional evening of Irish food and Celtic music on the grounds of the historic Trinity College, home of the famous Book of Kells. Guests mingled in an eclectic mix of rooms comprising the College’s dining halls from the gothic, arched, low-ceiling ground floor, multiple small private dining rooms, the 3-level, balconied atrium, and the great dining hall. The Closing Ceremonies wrapped up the Congress on Sunday afternoon and featured an engaging presentation highlighting next year’s Brazil Congress, featuring Brazilian dancers. The Dublin Congress was a tremendous event, complimented by many pre, congress, and post-congress tours arranged by the Congress Organizing Committee, all of which will leave attendees with many fond and lasting memories. WSAVA Assembly Meeting
WSAVA President Dr. Brian Romberg welcomed the Assembly members after a 12-month hiatus since the last assembly meeting in Sydney, Australia on August 19, 2007. He provided assembly members updates from a very active WSAVA leadership, including the Executive Board and various committees, which he highlighted in his Congress President’s Message (see September WSAVA News).
In addition to the passing of the Presidential Chain of Office and retirements of Drs. Anne Sorensen as Honorary Secretary, Larry Dee as Immediate Past-President, and Anjop Venker-van Haagen as Scientific Advisory Committee Chair, an election of Officers was also held that saw the new WSAVA Executive Board affirmed and includes (pictured from left to right) Dr. Brian Romberg (Immediate Past-President; South Africa), Dr. Luis Tello (Vice President; Chile), Dr. David Wadsworth (President; UK), Dr. Jolle Kirpensteijn (President Elect; Netherlands), Dr. Di Sheehan (Honorary Treasurer; Australia), and Dr. Walt Ingwersen (Honorary Secretary; Canada). The assembly members voted in favour of accepting 2 new full member associations that included Montenegro Association of Small Animal Practitioners (MASAP) and the Federation of Indian Small Animal Veterinary Associations (FISAVA; made possible by the membership withdrawal of the Pet Practitioners of Mumbai, who are now members of FISAVA). Also, the Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Society was voted in as an affiliate member. A number of associations had their membership revoked for lack of subscription dues payment. Additionally, Birmingham, UK was chosen as the site for the 2012 WSAVA Congress being hosted by the British Small Animal Veterinary Association (BSAVA). Additional Assembly Meeting highlights included:
• Past WSAVA President Dr. Hans Klaus Dreier presented with the inaugural President’s Award for his past and ongoing significant contributions to the WSAVA and international veterinary medicine.
• The Treasurer’s report that acknowledged a difficult 2007 financial year, due in large part to unpaid revenues from member association subscriptions, lack of payment of Congress revenue from Mexico, and loss of sponsorship for select WSAVA Awards. However, and due in large part to the recently announced Hill’s Prime Partner sponsorship agreement (see next bullet and www.wsava.org for more information), 2008 and beyond sees the WSAVA enjoying healthier financial stability. The revised and more equitable fee structure, voted in at the 2007 Assembly meeting, was readily implemented with an additional 4.5% subscription increase for 2008 to account for cost of living increases. The 2008/2009 budget was passed as presented.
• Announcement of Hill’s as a long-term Prime Partner that provides over 1.5 million dollars in sponsorship over 3 years support for a multitude of WSAVA projects and initiatives, including the Congress, various WSAVA Standardization Projects, and www.wsava.org
• A Continuing Education Committee report that thanked industry and member association sponsors and celebrated the past and ongoing successes of WSAVA-sponsored CE in various regions around the world.
• Dr. David Wadsworth presented the results of the WSAVA Strategic Planning sessions together with time the following morning dedicated for WSAVA member association input and hosted by WSAVA Executive Board members. A full summary will be published on www.wsava.org at a future time.
More details will be provided in the Assembly Minutes and these will be posted to www.wsava.org. 2008 WSAVA Award Winners For more complete information on the WSAVA Award winners, visit the 2008 Awards page of the WSAVA website. WSAVA WALTHAM International Award for Scientific Achievement Dr. Peter Moore, Professor, Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, USA. WSAVA INTERVET/SCHERING PLOUGH International Award for Service to the Profession
Dr. Marion Horzinek, Professor, Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, the Netherlands. WSAVA HILL’S Mobility Award
Professor David Bennett, Institute of Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow Veterinary Faculty, Bearsden, Scotland. WSAVA Hills Excellence in Veterinary Healthcare Award Dr. Carl Osborne, Professor, University of Minnesota and Co-Director of the Minnesota Urolith Centre, Minnesota, USA. Future Congresses Sao Paulo, Brazil – July 21-24, 2009
Geneva, Switzerland – June 2-5, 2010
Jeju, South Korea – 2011
Birmingham, UK – 2012 Proceedings Available On-Line Proceedings from the WSAVA 2008 World Congress are now available on-line via the WSAVA website (link on the right-hand column of the Homepage). Contents include Congress abstracts as well as proceedings from 235 lectures covering over 20 different disciplines by 75 world-renowned veterinary scientists. Disciplines covered include anesthesiology/analgesia, behaviour, cardiorespiratory, dentistry, dermatology, diagnostic imaging, endocrinology, exotic animal medicine, emergency medicine, feline medicine & surgery, gastroenterology, hereditary diseases, infectious disease, nephrology/urology, neurology/neurosurgery, oncology, ophthalmology, pathology, pharmacology, surgery, and veterinary nursing. Proceedings are also available for the Animal Welfare forum, the Practice Management track, 4 separate State of the Art Lectures (SOTAL) providing cutting-edge information on current topics from world-renowned veterinary scientists, and the North American Veterinary Conference Program track.
The WSAVA World Congress proceedings are also available online in a partnership with IVIS (International Veterinary Information Service), a New York based, not-for-profit organization dedicated to the improvement of animal care by providing up-to-date, clinical information to veterinarians, veterinary students, and animal health professionals, WSAVA. BSAVA October 2008 _________________________________ WSAVA Monthly NEWs - September, 2008 WSAVA World Congress Dublin 2008
Dr. Brian Romberg’s President’s Report to the WSAVA Assembly meeting delegates WSAVA Vision: WSAVA is dedicated to the continuing development of global companion animal care. WSAVA Mission: To foster the exchange of scientific information between individual veterinarians and veterinary organisations Your board has been very active over the last year. Besides a voluminous amount of e-mail correspondence, we also participated in a number of teleconferences and held a full board meeting in Tampa, USA, in May at the time of the AAHA conference. I would like to express my appreciation to the AAHA Board of Directors for the hospitality afforded to us. A significant amount of time was spent debating strategic planning under the guidance of David Wadsworth. We concluded by redefining both the goals and mission statement of the WSAVA (as stated above). We also met with the directors of AAHA to discuss the possibility of them hosting a WSAVA congress in the near future. I had the pleasure of representing your association at the inaugural South European Veterinary Conference in Barcelona in October 2007 as well as at the South African Veterinary Association Congress which was held at Sun City last month. I received a number of other invitations to attend member association meetings but due to time constraints I was not able to accept. I apologize for this. Jolle Kirpensteijn, Anne Sorenson, and Luis Tello (the latter two in their personal capacity) attended the North American Veterinary Conference (NAVC) in January 2008. At this conference one stream of lectures was dedicated to the WSAVA and was chaired by Jolle. I would like to thank the NAVC directors and Colin Burrows in particular for this means of promoting the WSAVA. This will be ongoing at future NAVC conferences. David Wadsworth and Jolle Kirpensteijn attended the British Small Animal Veterinary Association (BSAVA) congress in April. At these venues the opportunities were used to meet with our sponsors, representatives from industry, and members of the various boards of directors. I thank all these member associations for the hospitality afforded to our executive board members. David Wadsworth carried out two site visits to Brazil, in preparation for the 2009 Sao Paulo WSAVA World Congress, where he held meetings with the congress organizing committee, the PCO, and sponsors. Jolle Kirpensteijn and Di Sheehan worked very hard to get our financial books in order. Jolle kindly offered to continue as caretaker treasurer until the end of 2007 and finally handed the reigns over to Di in May of this year. As you can understand the changing of bank accounts and the transferring of information between Canada, the Netherlands, and Australia did not make it that easy to get all the paper work in place in time for this meeting. Walt Ingwersen has worked tirelessly on the website, updating information, and improving the layout of the homepage. Luis Tello has been as busy as ever producing the news bulletin and WSAVA flyers. He has also been responsible for the new look logos. We thank them for the amazing PR job they did. I would also like to thank Bayer Healthcare and Hill’s Pet Nutrition for their sponsorship of the website and news bulletin. As always I appeal to all assembly representatives to supply Walt with updated information on the activities of your association for posting to the website. I am pleased to report that the Hill’s Pet Nutrition sponsorship contract has finally been signed. This contract encompasses the sponsorship of our congress as the sole Prime Partner and the co- sponsorship of our CE program, website, and news bulletin and the renal standardization project. We also concluded contracts for co-sponsorship of our website and news bulletin, renal standardization project, and CE project with Bayer Healthcare and for co- sponsorship of our CE program with Intervet/Schering Plough Animal Health. I would like to thank the committee chairs and members for their contribution during the year. In particular I would like to thank Anjop Venker van Haagen for her years of commitment as chairperson of the Scientific Advisory Committee. Anjop’s term of office has now been completed and her position will be filled by Prof Michael Day. At the strategic planning meeting in Tampa it was agreed that, thanks to the past leadership and work on standardizing microchip technology by members of the WSAVA microchip committee, issues related to microchipping no longer required a stand-alone committee. Microchips will now fall under the umbrella of the animal welfare committee. I would like to thank Fred Nind for chairing the microchip committee and for representing the WSAVA at ISO WG3 meetings. Fred has informed us that he would still be available to represent the WSAVA at these meeting should we require him to do so. The Continuing Education project under the leadership of David Wadsworth continues to be one of our main goals. David was ably assisted by Roger Clarke, Luis Tello, and Lawson Cairns. Without the support of our sponsors Bayer Healthcare, Hill’s Pet Nutrition, and Intervet/Schering Plough Animal Health we would not have been able to take CE to as many locations as we did. However further expansion of this project is being curtailed by a lack of finance and we are actively involved in seeking a fourth sponsor. I thank all our member association who contribute in some way or another to this venture – without your assistance our task would be that more difficult. The Animal Welfare Committee co-chaired by Ray Butcher and Roger Clarke was mainly involved in organizing the welfare seminars for this congress and the forthcoming congress in Brazil as well as the drawing up of the program for the WSAVA welfare stream for the FASAVA congress. The Standardization Projects are still attracting an enormous amount of attention.
At the Congress the Gastrointestinal Group will be highlighting their significant achievements and the Atlas of Canine and Feline Gastrointestinal Endoscopy and Related Pathology is expected for release towards the end of 2009. This project was jointly sponsored by Hill’s Pet Nutrition and the WSAVA. Our sincere thanks to Robert Washabau and his team members for a task well done. After the successful publication of the International Guidelines for the Vaccination of Dogs and Cats in September 2007 by the Vaccine Guideline Group, Intervet/Schering Plough Animal Health have once again agreed to sponsor this group so that they can continue their work for another year. The group has set itself three distinct goals: the active consultation on the existing guidelines with national leaders from member countries of the WSAVA; the further consideration of the scientific evidence base for minority vaccines not considered in the initial report; and the production of information on vaccination for pet owners and breeders. With the purchase of the Scan Scope system and its installation at the Texas A & M University at the beginning of this year, the Renal Standardization Group has proceeded with their study. Our appreciation to Bayer Healthcare and Hill’s Pet Nutrition for their sponsorship of this study. To all the project leaders and group members our sincere gratitude for your involvement in these studies which are of immense importance to academics, specialists, and practitioners. Claudio Brovida remains our special projects co-ordinator and we really appreciate his enthusiasm for these projects and the time and effort he devotes to them. The Hereditary Diseases Committee under the leadership of Urs Giger met recently in France to finalize the development of their website, the production of an informational booklet, and to approve the data base. Ake Hedhammar, Peter Markwell, and Urs will be presenting lectures on hereditary diseases during this year’s Congress. We have maintained a cordial relationship with FECAVA, FASAVA, FIAVAC, and FAFVAC and today we welcome The Federation of Small Animal Practitioners Association of India (FSAPAI) into our fold. We must thank Umesh Karkare for his tireless efforts in bringing this to fruition. I would like to congratulate Larry Dee and Roger Clarke for being acknowledged by AAHA for their contribution to the profession. They were presented with their award at the AAHA congress. I apologize if I have left out any other committee or assembly members who may have received similar recognition. I have now completed my two-year term of office and I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to all my fellow board members who have given me unbelievable support over the last two years and to you the assembly members for allowing me the privilege of leading this great association. I must also thank my wife Isabel for her support and for allowing me “time off” to accomplish my WSAVA commitments. I will be handing over the presidency to David Wadsworth who I know is more than capable of looking after the affairs of the WSAVA. Larry Dee has completed his term as Past President and will be leaving the Board. Larry in his diplomatic way could always be relied upon for valued advice. Larry is not lost to veterinary politics and will once again focus his attention on the American arena. I wish him well and I know that he will always be available to the WSAVA should we require his input. Anne Sorenson has unfortunately decided to vacate the post of honorary secretary which she has held for four years. This post is an enormously taxing position – not only did she have to contend with the daily needs of the board and assembly members but she also had to answer letters from the public seeking advice on veterinary matters. Mom, as Anne is affectionately known, will be really missed at Board meetings, especially for how well she looked after us. I am sure Poul however will be happy to have his wife back.
Pernille Blok Rissom has acted as our secretarial assistant, a position she occupied with much enthusiasm. Pernille will be vacating this position as of this meeting and I thank her for her diligence. Luis Tello has been nominated unopposed to the position of vice president as has Walt Ingwersen to the position of honorary secretary. We are very fortunate that these two highly efficient and hard working gentlemen have made themselves available to serve your executive. Your executive committee has decided to institute a President’s Award as from this year. This award will be presented on a time to time basis by the President of the WSAVA in recognition of the recipient’s outstanding contribution to the association. The recipient will be selected by the executive board and the award will consist of a plaque, to be presented at the assembly meeting, together with complimentary congress registration and two tickets to the formal congress social event. The first presentation will take place during this meeting. To Nicola Neumann and the members of her committee our grateful thanks for all your hard work in organizing this congress. It takes endless hours of planning and meetings to arrange and manage a congress such as this and we express our sincere appreciation to everybody concerned. I must also thank VICAS for taking on this venture – a small association in numbers but not in effort. In conclusion I would like to wish you all an informative meeting and a pleasant stay in Dublin. WSAVA Member Association Updates News from the Morocco Veterinary Medical Association
The main aim of AMVAC (Association Marocaine des Vétérinaires pour Animaux de Compagnie) is to:
• Organize continuous education on small animal medicine, surgery, nursing and nutrition for the Moroccan Veterinarians.
• Keep our members informed on the recent scientific and technique news concerning small animals.
• National and international representation of the profession within government and other veterinary organizations.
• Participate to veterinary congresses and meetings. While AMVAC is only 18 months old (created January the 1st, 2007), our 30 members (including private practitioners and faculty from the veterinary school in Rabat), have been very active in hosting small animal continuing education meetings, which have included:
• Small Animal Cardiology: organized in collaboration with the WASVA and AFVAC and held in January 2008 featuring two French guest speakers.
• Small Animal Dermatology: held in March 2008 in collaboration with the WASVA and AFVAC also featuring two guest French lecturers.
Proposed AMVAC future CE activities include a seminar on the most common skin diseases in small animals scheduled for October 25 of this year and a CE meeting on Emergency and critical care to be held sometime in 2009. _______________________________ WSAVA Monthly NEWs - August, 2008 WSAVA Activities and Committee Reports Gastrointestinal (GI) Standardization Group Updates & ACVIM Consensus Statement Following a 2004 publication in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (Willard MD, et al. Interobserver variation among histopathological evaluation of intestinal tissues from dogs and cats. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2004;220:1177) that identified marked discrepancies in the histopathologic evaluation of gastrointestinal biopsies, a group of veterinarians specializing in GI diseases approached the WSAVA with the concept of standardizing the collection and assessment of GI biopsies. Based on the similar goals and ultimate success of the Liver Disease Standardization Group (http://www.wsava.org/LiverStandard.htm), a formal GI Standardization Group was struck, consisting of Drs. Washabau (chair), Bilzer, Day, Guilford, Hall, Jergens, Mansell, Minami, Wilcock, and Willard, and goals and timelines were established. Under the generous support of Hill’s Pet Nutrition, the group has enjoyed tremendous productivity and success to date, including:
• Histopathological Standards for the Diagnosis of Gastrointestinal Inflammation in Endoscopic Biopsy Samples from the Dog and Cat: A Report from the World Small Animal Veterinary Association Gastrointestinal Standardization Group. J Comp Path 2008;138:S1-S44
This monograph presents a standardized pictorial and textual template of the major histopathological changes that occur in inflammatory disease of the canine and feline gastric body, gastric antrum, duodenum and colon.
• Standardized GI Endoscopy Reporting Forms available at http://www.wsava.org/StandardizationGroup.htm
The group recognized early the need to also standardize endoscopic examination and sampling of the GI tract to ensure the highest procedural diagnostic yield. These endoscopy report forms help address this, namely that endoscopic examination is complete and thorough.
• Development of an ACVIM Consensus Statement on IBD
The ACVIM Board of Regents invited the WSAVA Gastrointestinal Standardization Group to develop, present, and publish an ACVIM Consensus Statement on "Histopathologic Standards for Canine and Feline IBD". This was presented in a special noon-hour session at the 2008 ACVIM Forum in San Antonio and is awaiting ratification and eventual publication in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine. Congratulations to the GI Standardization Group for their outstanding contribution to the betterment of of medicine and hence the lives of dogs and cats throughout the world! For more information on the WSAVA GI Standardization Group, visit their committee page on the www.wsava.org website. June 2008 News Bulletin Available online
Periodically, WSAVA produces a News Bulletin that highlights the initiatives and accomplishments of the association, its committees, member associations, and individual members. The most recent News Bulletin from June 2008 is now available for viewing as a pdf file on www.wsava.org. WSAVA Member Association Updates AAHA Makes NewStat and Trends Magazine Available to WSAVA Members NEWStat is the American Animal Hospital Association’s biweekly email newsletter for the entire veterinary clinic staff. NEWStat includes easy-to-digest briefs on timely topics and breaking news in companion animal practice. It has a convenient format that’s easy to read and share with others, and has links to additional information. While password protected and not freely available online, AAHA has agreed to make this resource available to WSAVA members via their www.aahanet.org website. Username and password can be requested and provided through your specific WSAVA member associations – to determine if you are a WSAVA member, please access the Member Association pages for more details (http://www.wsava.org/Handbook.htm). Additional resources that AAHA has made available for WSAVA members include:
• Trends Magazine (http://trends.aahanet.org/eweb/) – a resource providing information on management, business, and other workplace issues designed for the entire veterinary clinic staff
• Healthy Pet (http://www.healthypet.com/) – a pet owner online information resource
• AAHA Standards of Accreditation (http://www.aahanet.org/accreditation/index.aspx) – AAHA, along with a group of veterinary experts, developed the AAHA Standards of Accreditation as benchmarks of excellence to raise the level of care being provided to companion animals. Username and password access can be obtained as for NEWStat above. BSAVA CE Offering at a discounted rate to WSAVA members
BSAVA now offers overseas (international) membership at half the regular price of
full membership. This provides WSAVA members with a very economical means of obtaining access to all of the many resources and Member Benefits that BSAVA has to offer (e.g. Manuals, JSAP online, pdf version of the Formulary, etc.). For more information, visit http://www.bsava.com/aboutus/affiliates/ Also, BSAVA has begun a new publication titled Companion that provides monthly updates on newsworthy items that are not necessarily of a scientific nature. This also contains the WSAVA monthly news, and is now available online as a pdf document to complement the online version of the WSAVA monthly news at http://www.wsava.org/MonthlyNews2008.htm CE Report fro Peruvian Small Animal Veterinary Medical Association (AMVEPPA) On May 1, 2008, WSAVA and Hill’s sponsored a continuing education seminar by Dr. Jesus Paredes from the University Mexico on soft-tissue surgery in Lima, Peru which was well received by the packed room of attendees. Also in attendance were dignitaries from various veterinary medical associations. Pictured above from left to right Drs Gilberto Santillan (Vice President AMVEPPA), Jesus Paredes (speaker), Rau Benavente (President AMVEPPA), Ronald Torres (Treasurer AMVEPPA), Vladimir Valdivia (Secretary AMVEPPA), Richard Arguezo (Chair AMVEPPA/WSAVA CE Committee), and Guillermo Rico (Peruvian speaker). Iran – First Persian Veterinary Forum
The Persian Veterinary Forum is an online information resource consisting of 24 departments covering various fields of veterinary medicine, such as large animal medicine, small animal medicine, surgery, poultry, wild animals, etc. The forum was established in 2005 and is now in the 4th year of its activity with more than 2500 articles available online in Persian (Farsi). The Forum has 2 major sections, one on special veterinary medicine, which is suitable for veterinarians, veterinary students, university professors, etc, and the other is the public section, with information that both veterinarians and the public can use, including listserve discussions on various veterinary topics. Access is free and membership is easy – please visit www.ardalan.id.ir/forum NEWS From Around the World New Guidelines on Humane Stray Dog Control available The control of free-roaming dog populations remains a major welfare issue in many parts of the world. These may be associated with many problems such as: • Direct injury to people, livestock or pets
• Indirect injury to people and pets from road traffic accidents
• Source of infection (esp rabies)
• Pollution from faeces and urine
• General nuisance from noise The financial costs involved with these can be high, and so municipalities have often turned to mass slaughter as a way of addressing the problem. Often inhumane methods are used which are not only a welfare problem, alienating many of the stakeholders, but may also be indiscriminate with risks to humans and their pets. These methods are also invariably unsuccessful in the medium term. Accordingly, in 1990, the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Word Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) formulated joint guidelines which provided a framework on which a strategy might be developed. The key elements were: • Legislation
• Registration and identification
• Garbage Control
• Neutering of owned and un-owned dogs
• Control of breeders and sales outlets
• Education. All elements are important, though the priorities in different situations may vary. However, it is essential that all the major stakeholders agree a common strategy and that population studies are carried out to help formulate the most appropriate strategy. Much has happened since 1990, and recently the International Companion Animal Management (ICAM) Coalition was formed to share information and ideas on companion animal population dynamics. Currently, ICAM is made up of representatives from the World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA), the Humane Society International (HSI), the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), RSPCA International (the international arm of the Royal Society for the Protection of Animals, the Universities Federation for Animal Welfare (UFAW), the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) and the Alliance for Rabies Control (ARC). In January 2008, ICAM published a document titled “Humane Dog Population Management Guidance”. This essentially builds on and replaces the original WHO/WSPA framework, and is illustrated by a number of real life case studies. To access this document, visit the Animal Welfare page of the WSAVA website (http://www.wsava.org/AnimalWelfare.htm ) The WSAVA Welfare committee strongly recommends this to WSAVA members. The document can be downloaded from the WSAVA website as a pdf document. WSAVA World Congress Dublin 2008 Update Proceedings Available online! The WSAVA 2008 Dublin Congress scientific proceedings will be available online to coinciding with the opening of the Congress in Dublin, Ireland. The proceedings contain exciting scientific information that includes more than 200 lectures from 70 different speakers in more than 20 different disciplines and cover three different levels of interest – advanced/specialist, general companion animal, and new to/refresher companion animal medicine. Additionally, the proceedings will include three State-of-the Art Lectures (SOTALs) as well as the free communications/abstracts.
So…in the event that you can’t attend in person, the scientific information is still at your finger tips at www.wsava.org BSAVA August 2008
________________________________________ WSAVA Monthly NEWs - July, 2008 WSAVA Member Association Updates BVA and VPAT sign Universal Declaration on Animal Welfare (UDAW)
The Universal Declaration on Animal Welfare (UDAW) is an agreement among people and nations to recognize that animals are sentient and can suffer, to respect their welfare, and to end animal cruelty for good. For further information, see the full document at www.udaw.org
The British Veterinary Association (BVA) used World Veterinary Day to showcase the global role of the veterinary profession in raising standards of animal welfare by signing up to the Universal Declaration on Animal Welfare (UDAW). Demonstrating its commitment to animal welfare, the BVA has formally supported the UDAW. The Declaration, which represents the world’s first international agreement on animal welfare, recognises that sentient animals are capable of pain and suffering, deserving consideration and respect, and calls for effective animal welfare legislation to be developed and enforced around the world. It is hoped that the Declaration will ultimately be adopted by the United Nations.
BVA President Nick Blayney said: “I am delighted that BVA is supporting this vital campaign to recognise the responsibilities that humans have towards the welfare of sentient animals. I wholeheartedly endorse the inclusion within the Declaration of the ‘Five Freedoms’ as the guiding principles of animal welfare.
“I strongly believe that the veterinary profession should be part of this important global initiative, and hope that other veterinary associations around the world will sign up to this campaign. I also fully support the proposal to take the campaign to the United Nations, and hope that the Declaration will represent a huge step forward in gaining international recognition that animal welfare matters.”
Justine Smith, the World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) spokesperson for the campaign, said: “WSPA is delighted to have BVA backing for the campaign – this will go far in terms of building recognition for the UDAW from overseas governments, as well as in the UK. Vets have a vital role to play in promoting animal welfare.”
The BVA Overseas Group, which provides an essential link between BVA and veterinary organisations and individuals - and animal welfare charities - across the developing world, firmly opines that the profession should play a key role in defining the future of animal welfare on a global level by supporting the progress of UDAW. Speaking on behalf of the Group, its welfare representative Sean Wensley said: “Animal welfare is gaining ever-increasing importance across the world, and is increasingly being used as a measure of the social progress of nations. Over a billion people around the world rely directly on animals for their livelihoods, as well as for companionship, and good animal welfare frequently benefits human welfare.
“The veterinary profession is pivotal in maintaining and restoring the strong bond that exists between humans and animals across the world. Wherever animals are influenced by humans, whether on farms, in research institutions, in zoos or in people’s homes, members of the profession are present to ensure that animals remain healthy and happy and that provision for their good welfare remains paramount. Veterinarians are also key contributors to ethical review processes, speaking with authority and pragmatism as the animals’ advocate.”
The Veterinary Practitioners Association of Thailand (VPAT) continues to strive to develop their role in better serving society; in a step to better fulfill this role, VPAT takes the opportunity to help raise standards of animal welfare by signing up to the Universal Declaration on Animal Welfare (UDAW).
VPAT President Dr. Siraya Chunekamrai said: "I am delighted that VPAT is supporting the Universal Declaration on Animal Welfare to emphasize the responsibilities that veterinarians have towards the welfare of sentient animals. The stand generated from this declaration is in accordance with the veterinary profession's commitment to be in stewardship of all animals and creates social impact on the way we as human beings treat life itself. Consequential to this declaration, the veterinary profession will be aligned to make this become a society that respects animal life and life itself."
Saneekan Rosamontri, the World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) Regional Programme Manager in Asia for the UDAW, said: "WSPA is delighted that VPAT is the first Thai Veterinary Association backing for the UDAW and urges other Asian veterinary associations to also support the UDAW officially. It is essential that the Declaration be supported by the veterinary profession. Veterinary support of an international declaration on the sentience of animals would be an important step towards building recognition for the UDAW from Asian governments, as well as in Thailand." More Animal Welfare NEWS From Around the World
The Blue Dog: a valuable tool in the increasing need for dog bite prevention programs Background
The Blue Dog is a dog bite prevention program in the form of an interactive CD ROM and accompanying printed parent guide. It is aimed at teaching children of 3 – 7 years of age (and their parents), to recognize and avoid potential risk situations when dealing with their dog in their home. It has been developed by a group of professionals from multi-disciplines, under the umbrella of the Blue Dog Trust. Its development was prompted by scientific evidence that most bite injuries occur in children, usually in their own home, by a dog that is familiar to them. Young children are much more likely to suffer severe injuries to the head and neck and a significant number go on to develop post traumatic stress disorders. It has further been shown that many of the dog-child interactions that trigger the bite are initiated by the child.
Sadly the problem seems to be getting worse. In the UK National Health statistics reported in 2008 show the number attending accident and emergency departments after dog attacks has risen by more than 40% in the last four years. Despite the evidence to the contrary, the reaction of governments is to put the blame on “dangerous breeds” and rely on breed specific legislation – a strategy that has been shown to be mis-guided. Launch and different language versions
The English version of the Blue Dog was successfully launched at the 2006 WSAVA/FECAVA Congress in Prague. Since then, the parent guide has been translated into Norwegian, Dutch, Serbian and German. The Czech, Polish, Italian, Danish and US versions should be ready in April and the Flemish and French versions should follow in early summer.
The German version was successfully launched at the DVG Congress in Berlin, November 2008, along with Blue Dog stickers, balloons and cuddly toys! Thanks to the enthusiastic efforts of Suzanne Aldinger, Hildegard Jung, and their team, it has achieved good sales among DVG members. In the Netherlands, the programme is managed by the LICG. They successfully negotiated local government funding, and Leen den Otter presided over a successful launch in October 2007. Nikoleta and Denis Novak have worked tirelessly on the Serbian version which was finally launched in January 2008. Jiri Berenek and Jerzy Gawor are planning the launches of the Czech and Polish versions respectively in April 2008.
The program will be marketed by AVMA in the USA, and they hope it will be a useful addition to their dog bite prevention week that occurs annually in May. The BSAVA have agreed to distribute within the UK, and negotiations are in progress with Veterinary Ireland as how best to launch there.
Tiny De Keuster and Ray Butcher presented an oral presentation and poster at the most recent IAHAIO (International Association of Human Animal Interaction Organisations) conference in Tokyo in 2007, and attracted much interest from delegates. A Japanese version may be the result. Further Developments
The program is managed by the Blue Dog Trust, a registered charity which is committed to reinvest all financial surpluses achieved from royalty payments into further research and development into dog bite prevention issues.
In 2008, we have initiated the production of a promotional DVD which can be shown in the waiting rooms of vet clinics. We are also looking into ways of enhancing the website. A new project has been initiated to investigate ways of developing resources suitable for getting the message across in a classroom setting. Scientific research is also being supported. Kerstin Meints of the Child Psychology Department of Lincoln University (UK) will be investigating how young children investigate novel situations, hoping to explain the high incidence of head and neck bites in young children. We also hope to initiate some research into the trigger factors that cause bites in other cultures, with a view to developing appropriate educational material. This will hopefully have an impact on rabies control strategies. New Guidelines on Humane Stray Dog Control available
By: Ray Butcher (Co-Chairman of WSAVA Welfare Committee) The control of free-roaming dog populations remains a major welfare issue in many parts of the world. These may be associated with many problems such as: • Direct injury to people, livestock or pets
• Indirect injury to people and pets from road traffic accidents
• Source of infection (esp rabies)
• Pollution from faeces and urine
• General nuisance from noise The financial costs involved with these can be high, and so municipalities have often turned to mass slaughter as a way of addressing the problem. Often inhumane methods are used which are not only a welfare problem, alienating many of the stakeholders, but may also be indiscriminate with risks to humans and their pets. These methods are also invariably unsuccessful in the medium term. Accordingly, in 1990, the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Word Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) formulated joint guidelines which provided a framework on which a strategy might be developed. The key elements were: • Legislation
• Registration and identification
• Garbage Control
• Neutering of owned and un-owned dogs
• Control of breeders and sales outlets
• Education. All elements are important, though the priorities in different situations may vary. However, it is essential that all the major stakeholders agree a common strategy and that population studies are carried out to help formulate the most appropriate strategy. Much has happened since 1990, and recently the International Companion Animal Management (ICAM) Coalition was formed to share information and ideas on companion animal population dynamics. Currently, ICAM is made up of representatives from the World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA), the Humane Society International (HSI), the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), RSPCA International (the international arm of the Royal Society for the Protection of Animals, the Universities Federation for Animal Welfare (UFAW), the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) and the Alliance for Rabies Control (ARC). In January 2008, ICAM published a document titled “Humane Dog Population Management Guidance”. This essentially builds on and replaces the original WHO/WSPA framework, and is illustrated by a number of real life case studies. The WSAVA Welfare committee strongly recommends this to WSAVA members. The document can be downloaded from the WSAVA website as a pdf document. WSAVA World Congress Dublin 2008 Update WSAVA Awards
In addition to the long-standing WSAVA Waltham’s International Award for Scientific Achievement, the WSAVA Waltham Service to the Profession Award, and the WSAVA Hill’s Excellence in Veterinary Healthcare Award, two new WSAVA Awards will be presented this year.
WSAVA Hill's Pet Mobility Award
This award recognizes the outstanding work of a clinical researcher in the field of canine and feline orthopaedic medicine and surgery. Through improvements in the mobility and quality of life of pets, this person's research has contributed significantly to the well-being of pets' lives and to the human-animal bond world-wide.
WSAVA President’s Award This award will be presented on a time to time basis by the President of the WSAVA to a member of the WSAVA in recognition of the recipient’s outstanding contribution to the association, as selected by the Executive Board.
This provides two more reasons to attend to WSAVA World Congress in Dublin, in addition to the various extensive CE offerings, dynamic social events, and culturally rich city of Dublin, Ireland.
For those that have not yet registered, don’t delay as the Congress is only 1 month away. For more information, visit the Congress website at www.wsava2008.com.
See you there! BSAVA July 2008 ______________________________________ WSAVA Monthly NEWs - June, 2008 WSAVA Updates from the AAHA Meeting in Tampa, March 27-30, 2008 WSAVA Leaders Receive Prestigious AAAHA Awards Hill’s Animal Welfare and Humane Ethics Award, Roger Clarke
Roger Clarke, BVSc has been recognized for advancing animal welfare through extraordinary service and furthering humane principles, education, and understanding.
Here is the text of the Award presentation speech as given by Dr. Mary Beth Leininger, Director Veterinary Affairs USA, Hill’s Pet Nutrition:
The Hill’s Animal Welfare and Humane Ethics Award was established 10 years ago by the American Animal Hospital Association to honour a person who has advanced animal welfare through extraordinary service, or by furthering humane principles, humane education, and humane understanding.
Today’s honoree, Dr Roger Clarke from Melbourne Australia, joins a distinguished list of previous recipients that include Drs. Patricia Olson, Carl Osborne, and Peter Theran.
It is truly impossible, in the short time we have, to describe Dr. Clarke’s diverse contributions to improving the welfare of the animals, as he has held leadership positions in every professional organization he has touched – from local to international, including AAHA. However, let me highlight just a few so that you can capture the flavour of his accomplishments; I will limit my review to his involvement with animal welfare.
In 1988 he helped found the Australian Companion Animal Health Foundation – one of that country’s largest sources of research support for dogs and cats - and has served as its chairman for 20 years.
Since 1980 he has been the Australian national representative to the World Small Animal Veterinary Association and is the long-time chair of the WSAVA Companion Animal Welfare Committee. In this last capacity he was instrumental in drafting, adopting, and promoting the WSAVA Convention for the Protection of Companion Animals that has been ratified by more than 60 national member organizations.
He was responsible for the adoption of a scientific track devoted to animal welfare at the WSAVA annual congress, the first international veterinary organization to do so. One of his most important initiatives is the work he is doing to assist developing nations in the Asia-Pacific region to develop specific animal welfare legislation for their own country.
Dr. Clarke is the recipient of dozens of awards from national and international veterinary organizations, as well as well as an honorary doctorate from the University of Melbourne.
The people of Hill’s are pleased to honor this extraordinary man who is truly a force of nature: impossible to overlook, difficult to disagree with, and - speaking from personal experience - one of the most engaging and entertaining dinner companions with whom I have ever shared a table! Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Award, Larry Dee
In addition to many other honours throughout his career, Dr. Larry Dee has been recognized for his outstanding contributions to the improvement of the well-being of companion animals in the international veterinary community.
Dr. Dee earned his DVM at Auburn University in 1969. Currently, he is working as an adjunct faculty member in the department of medical sciences at the University of Florida and is co-owner of Hollywood Animal Hospital in Florida.
Dr. Dee has been active in countless professional organizations internationally, including several presidential roles. He was president of the American Animal Hospital Association in 1993-1994, the Florida Veterinary Medical Association from 1998-1999, the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners in 1989-1990, and the World Small Animal Veterinary Association from 2004-2006. Hill’s Pet Nutrition and WSAVA meet to celebrate sponsorship partnership Recently, Hill’s Pet Nutrition and the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) celebrated a new financial pledge as part of their joint partnership toward providing better veterinary health care across the globe. As part of this new pact between the organizations, Hill’s has agreed to provide a long term grant of more than $1.8 million to aid WSAVA in areas such as the WSAVA Congress, WSAVA Global Continuing Education, WSAVA Disease Standardization Groups, and the WSAVA News Bulletin on WSAVA.org. “Companion animals in countries across the globe are in need of receiving the best veterinary care possible,” said Hein Meyer, D.V.M., Ph.D., DECVIM-CA, Director of Strategic Initiatives at Hill’s. “This can be achieved through shared understanding and knowledge, and to help, we are pleased to provide additional support to the World Small Animal Veterinary Association’s efforts to advance the quality and availability of small animal medicine and surgery.” “We are extremely indebted to Hill’s Pet Nutrition for their loyal support of the WSAVA and our profession, and I would like to thank Dr. Hein Meyer and his colleagues for their effort in this regard,” said Brian Romberg, BVSc, WSAVA President. In addition to this new financial initiative, Hill’s is pleased to continue to provide support for other award programs like: WSAVA/Hill’s Excellence in Veterinary Health Care Award which recognizes the outstanding work of veterinarians in promoting companion animal healthcare and the family-pet-veterinary bond. Past winners of this prestigious Award include Gregory K. Ogilvie, DVM, DACVIM, Philip J. Bergman, DVM, MS, PhD, DACVIM, C. A. Tony Buffington, DVM, MS, PhD, DACVN, and Rebecca Kirby, DVM, DACVIM, DACVECC. WSAVA/Hill’s Pet Mobility Award which recognizes the outstanding work of a clinical researcher in the field of canine and feline orthopaedic medicine and surgery. In 2006, Hill’s and WSAVA joined efforts in completing a new liver textbook titled “Standards for Clinical and Histological Diagnosis of Canine and Feline Liver Disease.” The purpose of the book was to provide the global veterinary medical community with the best and most up-to-date information on the diagnosis of canine and feline liver disease. WSAVA Congratulates AAHA on 75th Anniversary The American Animal Hospital Association is an international organization of 6,000 veterinary care teams, comprised of more than 36,000 veterinary professionals, who are committed to excellence in companion animal care. Established in 1933, the Association is well-known among veterinarians for its leadership in the profession, high standards for veterinary practices and pet health care, and most importantly, its accreditation of companion animal practices. At the American Animal Hospital Association’s 75th Anniversary yearly conference in Tampa, March 27-30, 2008, Dr. Brian Romberg presented Dr. Tom Carpenter, AAHA president, with a congratulatory plaque celebrating 75 years of excellence. International luncheon
On Saturday, March 29, Hill’s Pet Nutrition sponsored an International Forum lunch, providing a unique opportunity for attendees from outside of North America to meet and celebrate the diversity of our profession, AAHA, and the Tampa conference. Luncheon attendees are pictured below. WSAVA World Congress Dublin 2008 Update In addition to the exceptional CE opportunities available through the scientific program, pre-congress day offerings, and management tracts, and the superb social events (as reviewed in recent issues of the WSAVA monthly news and provided in detail at www.wsava2008.org), both Dublin and Ireland in general have a lot to offer attendees, providing a complementary blend of veterinary CE and cultural experiences. For those looking for organized trips, the congress organizers have put together a number of full or half-day excursions to both historic and scenic local destinations including a walking tour of Dublin, Gardens of Ireland, and brewery and castle tours (visit http://www.wsava2008.com/day_tours.html) for more detailed information. Inhabited for almost 7,000 years, Ireland is an historic island nation, located on the eastern edge of the North Atlantic Ocean. It is divided up into 32 counties, 26 of which are known as the Republic of Ireland and the remaining 6, Northern Ireland. The terrain tends to be mountainous near coastlines with the midlands being dominated by flat countryside resulting in a land of beautiful and contrasting scenery.
Nearly 5 million people inhabit this 83,168 sq. km island with 1.5 million living in the capital city of Dublin. Over many centuries this land has experienced a number of incursions and invasions, resulting in a rich mixture of ancestry, culture and tradition. It's known worldwide for fine linen, lace, china, glassware, along with many ales and spirits. In this land of green (the home of Saint Patrick and the Shamrock), all visitors are welcome.
For detailed information on visiting Ireland, see the Tourism Ireland website at www.ireland.ie.
So…if you haven’t already, please visit the WSAVA Dublin Congress website to register as the Congress, which occurs on August 22 – 25, 2008, is approaching quickly! BSAVA June 2008 _____________________________________ WSAVA Monthly NEWs – May, 2008 WSAVA Member Association Updates USA - The Charlie Bild VIP (Very Important Practitioner) Program
The College of Veterinary Medicine
University of Florida has established a program to honor the memory of Dr. Bild while providing unique learning experiences for students, staff, and practitioners. Known as the VIP Chair (Very Important Practitioner), the program brings selected veterinary practitioners to the college's Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital for one-to-three-month visits. The VIP veterinarians work closely with college staff and students and are of particular benefit to undergraduates facing the transition to professional practice. Drawing on their experiences in the profession, the practitioners give lectures on such topics as ethics, practice management, public demands of professionals, and effective communications. At the same time, they are able to advance in their own clinical fields and gain teaching and learning opportunities through hospital and clinical rounds, faculty and student seminars, continuing education courses, and conferences at the University of Florida Health Science Center.
There have to date, been close to 30 participating practitioners representing eight different countries spanning five continents; three of these have been past or present WSAVA Executive Board members and include Drs. Larry Dee, Luis Tello, and Claudio Brovida. Here is Dr. Brovida’s summarized personal account of his experience:
Last year in Seattle during the ACVIM forum, I spoke to Dr. Michael Schaer about my will to follow some good internal medicine activity. He proposed for me to participate in this program for three months; however, due to my business I was only able to attend for five weeks - but it was a fantastic opportunity!
They offered me a comfortable apartment about two km from the school, all the security cards to allow me to move around the School anywhere at anytime, and a monthly salary of 1000$ USD. This allowed me to do what I have been waiting for, for a long time - to study some subjects more deeply, follow the internal medicine cases, attend the morning rounds and lectures, discuss veterinary medicine with colleagues, and to follow anything that would interest me or fulfill my professional needs. I had a fantastic time there.
This is the most unique opportunity that I have ever found during all my professional life and it is open to any veterinarian in the world. The program itself consists of the participation in the school activity /life for three months and offers 1000 USD a month to the recipient as well as an apartment a few minutes walk from the school. Any veterinarian with a particular interest could attend and this could also be a wonderful CE opportunity for academic colleagues from less developed part of the world. Pictured: Dr. Claudio Brovida with Drs. Michael Schaer (left) and Colin Burrows (right) who are members of the Charlie Bild Advisory Committee. To apply, interested individuals should send a letter of intent (including preferred months and services that they would like to participate in), biographical information, and three letters of reference to the Charlie Bild VIP Program at University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine. For more information visit their website at http://www.vetmed.ufl.edu/pr/broch/bild.htm or feel free to contact Drs. Dee, Tello, or Brovida. WSAVA World Congress Dublin 2008 Update Program Overview
The 2008 WSAVA/FECAVA Congress will be held in the Royal Dublin Society Convention and Exhibition Centre. The RDS founded in 1731 to promote the development of agriculture, arts, science, and industry. It is fitting that a Veterinary Congress promoting the advancement of veterinary medicine, veterinary nursing, and veterinary management should be held here.
The scientific program includes state of the art lectures and more than 200 lectures from 70 different speakers. The lectures are designed to provide the most recent information on current topics of clinical interest from world renowned veterinary scientists and clinicians in more than 20 different disciplines.
Lectures will be delivered at three different levels; advanced/specialist, general companion animal and new to/refresher companion animal medicine. Renowned international speakers include:
• Simon Platt (neurology)
• Michael Schaer (Canine and Feline Medicine)
• Margie Scherk (Feline Medicine)
• Peter Irhke (Dermatology)
There will also be two days of free communications and one day of pre congress CE events; feline medicine, emergency care and avian medicine.
The wide range of continuing education opportunities offered will not only be educational but also the Congress will provide a venue for renewal of old acquaintances and the creation of new collaborations and friends.
We will explore interesting subjects in the areas of Canine and Feline Medicine and Surgery, Ophthalmology , Cardiology, Neurology, Exotics, Oncology, Dermatology, Infectious Diseases and Animal Behaviour and Welfare. MANAGEMENT
There will also be a short program devoted to Management topics such as Stress and the Vet, Human Resource Management, Work-life Balance, current international concepts on Vet Nurses working in Practice, Starting a Small Animal Practice, Entrepreneurship, and Marketing. FECAVA SYMPOSIUM
The FECAVA Symposium will take a brave step and look at why the Veterinary and Veterinary Nursing professions have such a high incidence of stress and suicide and what can be done to prevent this. VETERINARY NURSING CONFERENCE
On the Saturday and Sunday Veterinary Nurses can attend a conference which will be practical as well as informative for the backbone of every small animal practice. There will be "How To Sessions", sessions on Marketing, ideas on what to do to grow the practice, Refresher courses that would also interest trainees studying for exams and much more. Exhibition Space
An extensive trade exhibition will take place during WSAVA 2008. The exhibition will showcase the latest products and developments in the companion animal veterinary area and will be the focal point of the congress. Over 100 organizations and 50 companies are confirmed participants Social
Expect an Irish welcome from day one with Irish music, dancing and song. The social programme promises to be great fun whether you have come by yourself, with your friends or your family. Join us for nights on the town, a grand Irish Céilí (Irish dancing session in which you will be encouraged to join in), a dinner banquet in the leafy surrounds of University College Dublin and an Opening Ceremony which promises a bit of gambling, horses, dogs and people!
Take time out from lectures and meet up with friends in the comfort of the coffee bays or on the sunny green grass of the 40 acres in the Royal Dublin Society grounds. NEWS from Around the World
Cats Reduce Heart Attack Risk CBC News Online February 22, 2008
A US study suggests having a cat at home could cut your risk of a heart attack by almost a third. The finding suggests that the stress relief pets provide to humans is heart-healthy. Researchers analyzed data on more than 4,400 Americans, age 30 to 75, who took part in the US government's second National Health and Nutrition Examination Study, which ran from 1976 to 1980.
A little more than half of the study participants either owned a cat or had owned a cat in the past while the rest had never done so. Researchers tracked the rates of death in the entire group from all causes, including heart and stroke. The cat owners had a 30 per cent reduction in heart attack risk than participants who didn't own cats, said the study's lead author, Dr. Adnan Qureshi of the Minnesota Stroke Institute.
But dog lovers shouldn't feel left out, he stressed. Dogs would probably bring people the same kind of benefit, Qureshi said, but the numbers of dog owners in the study wasn't big enough to count statistically. BSAVA May 2008 __________________________________ WSAVA Monthly NEWs - April, 2008 An Update on WSAVA Continuing Education (CE) Activities Successful WSAVA stream during The North American Veterinary Conference (TNAVC) 2008 The WSAVA partnered up with affiliate member TNAVC to host a stream on soft-tissue surgery during the last TNAVC Congress in Orlando. In addition to impeccable organization, huge attendee numbers, and excellent social and exhibitor programs, TNAVC also delivers a solid scientific program. On Wednesday January 23, the WSAVA sponsored a stream on soft-tissue surgery and the attendance was enormous. The large room was filled completely (more than 300 people) to see Dr. Ron Bright and Dr. Gary Ellison perform at their best. After useful tips on intestinal surgery, gastric-dilatation-torsion (GDV's) were discussed in detail. Did you realize that feeding a dog from an elevation increases the chance of GDV's in large-breed dogs? Many more need-to-know facts were elucidated during the exciting morning program. In the afternoon, skin surgery was presented in a clinical and humorous way. Last but not least ,15 minute topics including using the omentum and suction to improve healing of difficult wounds finished a wonderful day. The day was chaired by the vice president of the WSAVA, Prof Jolle Kirpensteijn, who could not resist to add a couple of remarks towards the speakers and the topics too. Thanks to our close cooperation with the TNAVC, the WSAVA was able to reach a large audience of American practitioners and introduce our common goals. South Africa CE Report – Lawson Cairns My objective for 2007 was to provide CE for veterinarians in regions not currently serviced by the various excellent CE programs provided by drug companies, the South African Veterinary Association (SAVA), and National Veterinary Clinical Groups. It should be understood from the outset that in the poorer economic and social areas, the main veterinary activities are focused on economically important animals, such as cattle, sheep, goats, and (on a different level) wild life. WSAVA CE activities complemented existing programs while taking into account the change that is occurring from large animal to the companion animal practice. It was therefore deemed important to try and “whet the veterinary appetite” companion animal practice and the satisfaction it can bring. Additionally, in the developing countries a large portion of the veterinary population is in the state service but could eventually provide the companion animal services, especially once their education is updated. I would like to pay tribute to the assistance which Intervet has provided - both financially and logistically for WSAVA CE in South Africa. Also, I have worked closely with Animal Aid for Africa (AAA) who had been providing CE for some years now and their willingness to share all their know-how has been of mutual benefit to each of us and more especially to the veterinarians in our region. The SAVA has an African Continuing Professional Development Forum that meets once or twice per year and that includes the WSAVA, WVA Commonwealth Association, and AAA who work cooperatively to assist one another. 2007 CE Activities • 7th - 11th June – Kenya
Prof. Fred Reyers flew to Kenya to travel together with an Intervet-affiliated company and addressed in excess of 300 veterinarians on the subject of “Rabies” and then spent a considerable amount of time answering questions on many diverse subjects. The area covered in travel between venues was large and I want to thank Intervet for allowing us to “tag along” and covering travel and accommodation expenses. • 27 – 28th June - Animal Aid for Africa
AAA ran a two-day seminar in Johannesburg attended by 45 veterinarians from the Republic of South Africa and other countries in the region. WSAVA provided 500 Dollars in sponsorship. Virbac brought in Dr. Helen Zulch to provide a presentation on “Aspects of Dermatology”. Excellent colour notes were handed out and were very well received. • 9th – 10th September – Madelane in RSA/border Mozambique, Swaziland
AFVAC, in conjunction with AAA, sponsored Christian Demon who addressed the students at the university in Madagascar as well as 16 practitioners. The plans are for a full congress next year with better attendance expected. This is a very poor country but there are a number of very wealthy residents and we have seen a companion animal clinic built, which will contribute to the much needed welfare of companion animals. • 30th September
Intervet supported lectures and lunch for 20 veterinarians and students who drove up from Mozambique as well as 10 Veterinarians from Swaziland. A few local State veterinarians also were in attendance. The effort made by these attendees to travel in difficult circumstances to attend this type of meeting must never be under estimated. Dr. Lobetti lectured on “Liver and skin”, and Dr. Viljoen lectured on “Eye Diseases”. I have received several letters of thanks and enthusiasm for the meeting and enthusiasm for the next series of CE lectures on anesthesia and pain control. • 25th – 26th October - Veterinary Association of Namibia (VAN)
VAN held their annual congress at the Swakopmund Hotel and Conference Centre. 80 veterinarians attended which was a phenomenal turn-out for such a large country with a population of only 2.5 million. Their interest and enthusiasm was great. Dr. Martin Briggs addressed the group for 3 hours on “Aspects of Dermatology”. My attendance was to both introduce Dr. Briggs on behalf of WSAVA as well as to welcome VAN to WSAVA on behalf of Dr. Romberg our president as VAN’s membership was ratified in Sydney. VAN is a very well organized and motivated group. With the exception of the Madelane trip it has not been possible to do purely WSAVA lecture courses so my efforts have focused on combining WSAVA CE speakers/lectures with already organized CE events. This has worked very well for us and has meant that a large number of veterinarians have been assisted by WSAVA CE efforts without spending large sums of money. Southern Africa has a very limited WSAVA CE; despite this, we have managed to provide CE assistance to 471 Veterinarians at an average cost of $12.50 per person. However, it will be hard to continue at our current budget and so would welcome any donations, which will be directly applied to CE programs (see planned events below) that will benefit the welfare of pets and vets in the Southern African regions. My grateful thanks to BSAVA, AFVAC, and NACAM (Netherlands Association of Companion Animal Medicine) who have already agreed to help. Plans for the next year (funds permitting) are to repeat a day or weekend at Malelane for Mozambique, Swazi, and local State veterinarians, rovide a speaker for Madagascar’s Congress via AFVAC, repeat trip to Kenya but spending more time in Nairobi, support Mozambique congress with a lecturer if this event does indeed take place, and to expand contacts in Botswana, Malawi, Zambia, and anywhere else. WSAVA CE in South America – Luis Tello In fall of 2007, the Uruguay’s Small Animal Veterinary Association (SUVEPA) held their CE program for 2007. The speaker was Carlos Larsson, professor of dermatology at the University of Sao Paulo, Brazil. Dr. Larsson delivered 6 hours of CE about the most critical issues in small animal’s dermatology: pyoderma, immune-mediated diseases (e.g., Lupus and Pemphigus), and the current diagnoses and treatment of allergic diseases. 110 veterinarians were in attendance along with a small number of students, and the CE program was very topical due to the high incidence of dermatological diseases in the country. Some practitioners estimate that around 30% of the case load in private practice is due to skin problems. Thanks to our sponsors Bayer, Hill’s, and Intervet who also had company representatives in attendance. In April 2008 Dr. Jesus Ramirez, Professor at the University Autonoma of Mexico, will lecture on soft-tissue surgery for veterinarians from Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela. Dr Ramirez is well-known within Latin American countries and has already lectured in almost every country in the region. He has a vast experience in the field of surgery, having trained at different universities and specialist centers in USA and Europe. The tour is already organized and we wish Dr Ramirez the best experience during his South American Tour. WSAVA CE in Asia – Roger Clarke
Taiwan February 2007
Dr Graeme Allen, a registered specialist in Radiology and ultrasound who practices in Sydeny Australia was the guest speaker for the WSAVA CE lecures in Taipei, Taiwan, hosted by the TVMA and sponsored by Bayer, Hills and Intervet. The lectures were held in a large youth venue in Taipei known at “17” and Dr Allen spoke to over 200 Taiwan vets on various aspects of ultrasonography and radiology. The lectures were well received and the WSAVA program is now an accepted part of the TVMA annual scientific meeting. Malaysia and Thailand March 2007
The Convener of WSAVA CE in Asia, Dr Roger Clarke visited Malaysia and Thailand in March 2007 to speak to the veterinary practitioners and veterinary students on various common soft tissue and orthopaedic surgical procedures. Dr Clarke is a registered specialist small animal surgeon in Australia and a fellow of the Australian College of veterinary scientists (FACVSc) in small animal surgery, and has spoken in Malaysia and Thailand on several occasions. Both these countries are progressing well with organizing local CE and are very supportive of the WSAVA CE program. This lecture tour reached approximately 300 veterinarians. Sri Lanka, June - July 2007
The WSAVA CE program assisted a visit to Sri Lanka's University of Peradenaya Veterinary School in Kandy, by Dr. A. D. J. (Dave) Watson formerly of the University of Sydney, Australia. The visit was jointly funded by the WSAVA CE program sponsored by Bayer, Hill’s, and Intervet and the Australian small Animal Veterinary Association (ASAVA). The host Association was the Sri Lanka Veterinary Association, continuing education program. Dr. Watson spoke to both final year students and practitioners over an extended period of 5 weeks in June and July. His lectures were on problem-oriented medicine, fluid therapy, renal disease, and antibiotic therapy.
During these lectures contact was made with approximately 200 students and 100 practitioners and field workers. Dr Watson generously donated his time free of charge.
Dr Watson's visit is part of an ongoing program to assist Sri Lankan vets commenced by the Commonwealth Veterinary Association in 2006. We hope that the WSAVA and ASAVA can continue to help this program. China, September 2007
Dr Colin Dunlop, a veterinary anaesthetics specialist from Australia was the Guest speaker at the China WSAVA CE program sponsored by Bayer, Hills and Intervet. Dr Dunlop commenced the lecture tour in Beijing on September 14th where he spoke to the Beijing SAVA (BJSAVA) and them went to Shanghai to speak to the members of the Shanghai SAVA (SHSAVA) and in Shenzen to the Guangdong vets (GDSAVA). Before returning to Australia, Colin also spoke to the Hong Kong vets at an evening seminar. Anaesthesia is critical to the performance of high quality small animal surgery and on this tour, Dr Dunlop reached an audience of over 500 Chinese vets and Colin concentrated on introductory inhalation anesthesia, a field that needs development in Asia.
Dr Colin Dunlop is a diplomate of the ACVA and a Fellow of the ACVSc and a registered specialist in small animal anaesthesia who works in specialist practice in Sydney Australia. Colin is an entertaining and knowledgeable speaker and he also manages a commercial business providing anaesthetic equipment to the veterinary profession in Australia. India, December 2007
Following the success of this tour Colin kindly consented to speak in India in December 2007. Colin was accompanied in India by his wife, Dr Georgina Child, a registered specialist veterinary neurologist. Dr Georgina Child is a Diplomate of the ACVIM and is engaged in referral specialist practice in Sydney, Australia.
The Indian tour commenced in Delhi on 1st and 2nd December at a combined meeting of the newly formed Federation of Small Animal Practitioners Association of India (FSAPAI), hosted by at the Delhi Small Animal Veterinary Association. This was followed by the WSAVA CE program hosted by the Pet Practitioners of Mumbai (PPAM) and sponsored by Bayer, Hills and Intervet. The 2 day meeting was a great success attended by over 200 Indian vets. On their return to Australia via Mumbai the speakers kindly gave a short seminar at the Bombay University Veterinary School (founded 1886) the oldest and first Vet School in India. The lectures were given in the newly refurbished but antique lecture theatre at the school and they were very well received. The speakers were thanked by Dr Sunita Patel, the President of PPAM, the first woman president of this association. The Convener of WSAVA CE in Asia, Dr Roger Clarke, accompanied and assisted the speakers on this occasion. Dr Clarke welcomes any indications of interest from experienced lecturers who would be willing participants in this worthwhile program. He can be contacted at: rogerclarke@pobox.com Morocco – January 2008 – Prof Hassan Bouayad
Through the support of WSAVA, the AMVAC held a CE course on cardiology in Rabat, Morocco January 11-12, 2008. The delegates were very interested and satisfied. We are very thankful to the WSAVA for its help and support.
Through WSAVA we would like to thank the president of AFVAC, Dr Carlotti, the president of GECA, Dr Rousselot, and our speakers, Dr. Drouard and Dr. Collet, for all they did to ensure the success of this event.
On behalf of the AMVAC committee and all the delegates, we would like to thank all of you and we are looking forward to organizing future CE sessions in order to improve veterinary practice in Morocco.
Attached is a picture of the speakers, the delegates and the AMVAC committee taken after the lecture. WSAVA World Congress Dublin 2008 Update The “jewel” of WSAVA CE activities – the WSAVA World Congress – is fast approaching with a scientific and social program that is sure to provide something for everyone, including the backdrop of beautiful Dublin, Ireland. In addition to the core Scientific Program, there are a number of Congress-associated CE programs providing additional beneficial scientific sessions for veterinarians wanting to hone their skills in the disciplines/topics covered, including: Satellite Meetings Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care: It’s a Shocking Time – Wednesday, August 20, 2008
This pre-conference day provides “state of the art” practical education in important aspects of critical care delivered by two world-class speakers. Prof Lesley King and Dr. Kate Hopper will cover various forms of shock, including hypovolemic and hypoglycemic shock in dogs and cats with case examples, in this day-long critical care symposium. European College of Avian Medicine and Surgery – Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Drs. Neil Forbes and Stephen Smith present a full day of avian medicine topics that include diagnostic modalities ranging from clinical pathology to radiography and endoscopy, supportive in-hospital care techniques, and case-based presentations. European Society of Feline Medicine – Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Topics covered in this day-long symposium include updates on pleural effusion, select endocrine diseases, renal disease, and hepatic diseases presented by four world-renowned feline experts - Drs. Mark Jackson, Michael Schaer, Kit Sturgess, and Margie Scherk – that culminates in a round table discussion. International Elbow Working Group (IEWG) – Wednesday, August 20
The IEWG is an affiliate member of WSAVA and will host this pre-conference session that features Prof Dr H van Bree, Dr N. Fitzpatrick, Prof Dr A. Hedhammer (past WSAVA Iams Saki Patsaama Award winner), Prof. H. A. W. Hazewinkel (past WSAVA Iams Saki Patsaama Award winner) and Dr. B. Tellhelm presenting updates on the genetics, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of canine elbow diseases. Spaces are limited so visit the Dublin WSAVA World Congress website today to register online (http://www.wsava2008.com/) BSAVA April 2008 _____________________________________
WSAVA Monthly NEWs - March, 2008 WSAVA News Bulletin available on WSAVA website The WSAVA semi-annual (published once to twice per year) is now available in a pdf format at www.wsava.org by following the News Bulletin link in the left hand column. The News Bulletin provides WSAVA news and highlights from the latter part of 2007 and has been recently redesigned into a more pleasing and user-friendly format. WSAVA Activities and Committee Reports
Introducing Dr. Diane Sheehan – Newest Member of the WSAVA Executive Committee (pictured at right)
The newest WSAVA board member Dr. Diane Sheehan was born in New Zealand, studied science at Massey University, Palmerston North, and then moved to Australia and graduated from the University of Queensland with a degree in Veterinary Science. Following graduation she began work in small animal practice in Brisbane, Queensland Australia and then became a partner and director, taking a particular interest in dermatology and internal medicine.
Diane became involved in veterinary politics as Australian Veterinary Association Queensland Division President, followed by President of the Australian Small Animal Veterinary Association. It was while in this position that the idea of Sydney hosting the WSAVA Congress 2007 was raised and the rest they say is history. She was the Chair of the Congress Organising Committee for Sydney 2007 working with a team of talented, driven veterinarians that produced a successful Congress, scientifically, socially, and financially.
She has over 15 years experience in finance and business roles with various organisations and small business and has a particular interest in practice management, she graduated with an MBA(Masters of Business Administration) from University of Queensland, 2006. Diane is looking forward to the role of WSAVA Treasurer working with the Board to attract new member bodies and delivering value to member organisations and support for continuing education and projects. She enjoys working closely with others to reach desired outcomes in line with organisational goals and strategy. Diane has two delightful children – Kaitlin 16 and Patrick 13. Hills Sponsorship of WSAVA Activities The WSAVA have signed a four year sponsorship contract with an option of renewal (with the exception of the congress sponsorship) with Hills Pet Nutrition commencing on the 1st of January 2008 in which they will sponsor the following activities:- 1. WSAVA World Congresses – Hill’s will be the exclusive WSAVA Congress Prime Partner. This sponsorship runs for three years with an annual review upon which this agreement will be extended for another year
2. WSAVA Global Continuing Education Program
3. WSAVA Renal Standardization Project together with Bayer Animal Health
4. WSAVA Website and News Bulletin
5. WSAVA/Hills Mobility Award
6. WSAVA/Hills Health Care Award We are extremely indebted to Hill’s Pet Nutrition for their loyal support of the WSAVA and our profession and I would like to thank Dr’s Hein Meyer and David Watson for their effort in this regard. WSAVA Website and News Bulletin Bayer Animal Health have agreed to co-sponsor this activity of the WSAVA together with Hill's Pet Nutrition for 2008. Our sincere gratitiude to Dr’s Norbert Mencke and Joy Olsen for their support. WSAVA Renal Standardization Project Through the most generous sponsorship of Bayer Animal Health and Hills Pet Nutrition this very exciting project has finally come to fruition. With the acquisition of essential diagnostic equipment (Aperio scanning equipment) and Dr’s Larry Cowgill and David Polzin and their committee members will be able to commence work on this project shortly.
Glomerular disorders are an important cause of kidney disease in dogs and cats, but their diagnostic evaluation, classification, and management remain enigmatic and uncharacterized compared to other renal pathology. Accurate identification and appropriate treatment of canine glomerular diseases can be expected to yield consequential improvements in clinical outcomes for this large cohort of affected animals. In human beings, specific glomerular diseases are characterized (and thus are identified) by their light microscopic, immunopathologic, and electron microscopic features which are correlated with the particular clinical and clinicopathologic findings that are exhibited by affected patients. Diagnosis of a patient’s glomerular disease provides insights into the disorder’s pathogenesis and prognosis, as well as guidelines for appropriate treatment. While veterinary pathologists have attempted to characterize glomerular diseases in dogs in a similar manner, they have based their diagnoses primarily on light microscopic findings. These efforts largely have failed to yield a consensus nomenclature, morphologic characterization, and adequate and accurate results. This failure underscores the importance of a uniform classification scheme based on expanded immunologic and ultrastructural evaluation in renal disease diagnosis. The purpose of this initiative is to employ the use of all three diagnostic modalities, as used in human nephropathology, to accurately characterize glomerular disease in proteinuric dogs, and to relate these findings to clinicopathologic presentation and outcome. Our long-term goal is to better understand and evaluate and thus optimize the medical management of dogs with proteinuric renal disorders by identifying distinct glomerular diseases for which specific prognoses and therapeutic guidelines can be provided.
This proposal achieves this objective by systematically evaluating tissue specimens obtained from proteinuric dogs and cats world-wide and to collect information about the clinical and clinicopathologic features of their illnesses. Results of these evaluations will be collated and interpreted by a team of veterinary nephrologists and pathologists who will use existing standards for classifying the morphology of human glomerular disease to formulate pathologic diagnoses correlated with the clinical features of the diseases in affected dogs and cats. The clinical utility of the diagnostic scheme will be established by prospective study of initially at least 100 cases, and ultimately of 500 cases.
Anticipated outcomes of this project are: 1) identification of a large cohort of dogs and cats in which the clinical outcome of well defined glomerular disorders treated with standard care can be determined, 2) creation of the diagnostic infrastructure needed to conduct controlled clinical trials of therapy for dogs and cats with glomerular diseases, and 3) publication of a book that describes and illustrates canine glomerular diseases using the diagnostic scheme that is developed. NEWS From Around the World Federation of Asian Small Animal Veterinary Associations (FASAVA) – the birth of a collective veterinary association dedicated to the betterment of small animal veterinary medicine in Asia
FASAVA arose from a realization by a core group of Asia-Pacific veterinarians that there was a need for an international small animal veterinary group to act as a forum for their specific regional needs. Five years ago (in 2002), a group of veterinarians from various Asian small animal veterinary associations came together at the 27th WSAVA Congress in Grenada, Spain, to discuss formation of this group. As the Chairman of WSAVA CE in Asia, Dr. Roger Clarke was asked to facilitate the initial discussions, which took place at the annual WSAVA Congresses, and was instrumental in bringing together the small animal veterinary associations of Australia, China, Hong Kong, Iran, Japan, Korea, Malyasia, New Zealand, Thailand, and Taiwan. These meetings culminated in a final decision to form FASAVA at a WSAVA-sponsored CE meeting in Taipei in 2005. A constitution and rules based on the Federation of Asian Veterinary Association (FAVA) model were drawn up with appropriate modifications and adopted by the founding members of the group and sent to all interested parties. It was unanimously decided at this historic meeting to hold the 1st FASAVA meeting in conjunction with the WSAVA 2007 Congress in Sydney Australia with the 2nd Congress to follow in Bangkok, Thailand in 2009; the 3rd FASAVA meeting has since been scheduled to occur in conjunction with the 2011 WSAVA World Congress in Jeju, South Korea. Dr. Roger Clarke was elected as the inaugural chairman and Assoc. Prof. Parntep Ratarnakorn from Thailand was elected Chairman-Elect.
The Current Situation: Asian veterinary associations do not share a common language, but share a common geographical region in which small animal veterinary medicine is a relatively new and rapidly growing area of interest. FASAVA held their first Council meeting in Sydney in 2007 with invitations for membership sent to all regional Asian small animal veterinary associations; to date, membership includes Australia, Taipei, Beijing, Shanghai, New Zealand, Thailand, and Hong Kong.
The future: With the goodwill of its member associations, FASAVA will give all Asian small animal veterinary associations a regional small animal meeting with sufficient size to attract world-class speakers. This is already evident in the 2009 meeting, which boasts not only a roster of world-renowned speakers, but also concurrent tracks sponsored by the North American Veterinary Conference (TNAVC; a WSAVA affiliate member) and an Animal Welfare track provided by WSAVA. Eventually, FASAVA will take over the role of the WSAVA CE program and facilitate the provision of regional CE for the various member associations. FASAVA will act as a common Asia-Pacific forum for companion animal practice, allowing solutions to regional issues to be addressed and resolved collectively. WSAVA World Congress Dublin 2008 Update Registration open!
Important Dates to Remember:
• 1st April 2008 - close of Free Communication/Abstract submission (see website for full details)
• 9th May 2008 - close of discounted early registration Accommodation:
To avoid disappointment, why not book your accommodation now. A full list of congress hotels is available on the website www.wsava2008.com Getting To Dublin:
Over 90 airlines serve Dublin Airport with over 150 destinations. There is an extensive short and medium-haul route network: several domestic Irish routes, over thirty routes to the UK, and a large network of routes to continental Europe. In addition to this, there are numerous direct flights to North America and the Middle East. With cheap direct flights to Dublin from Europe and USA/Canada (www.aerlingus.com) and even more options for UK visitors (www.ryanair.com; www.flybmi.com) getting to Dublin couldn’t be easier! For a full listing of flight details, visit www.dublinairport.com. Visa Requirements:
No visa requirements for EU passport holders. All non-EU citizens should contact their local embassies for specific requirements. An official letter designed to assist in meeting administrative requirements in some countries, will be sent to any participant upon request. However, this invitation implies no obligation, financial or otherwise, by the WSAVA 2008 Organising Committee. Email wsava2008@ovation.ie for more information. _____________________________________
WSAVA Monthly NEWs - February, 2008
WSAVA Activities and Committee Reports WSAVA GI Standardization Group
The WSAVA GI Standardization Group met at the 2007 ECVIM Congress in Budapest, Hungary to set the stage for the completion of several projects that they have underway during the next 3 – 12 months. The Group has produced a manuscript titled International Standards for the Histopathological Diagnosis of Gastrointestinal Inflammation in the Dog and Cat, which has been submitted to the Journal of Comparative Pathology for peer-review and anticipated publication in 2008. The manuscript is a 57-page monograph that will be the first systematic characterization, featuring both text and pictorial representation, of the inflammatory and morphological changes within the stomach, small intestine, and colon of the dog and cat due to a variety of gastrointestinal diseases. It is the Group’s belief that following publication, the monograph will serve as the sole standard reference for clinicians, internists, and pathologists in their diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease and other disorders. At the ECVIM Congress, the Group also presented one research abstract titled Sensitivity of Endoscopic Biopsy Sampling for the Detection of Gastric and Intestinal Lesions, which it intends to publish in its entirety during 2008. This will represent the second in a series of peer-reviewed publications emanating from the Group. The full abstract is available through the WSAVA website, among other avenues. The group is also currently testing the WSAVA Histopathology Standards they have developed by applying the monograph guidelines to an archive of 253 slides with over 2,500 tissue biopsies from nine different institutions in six different countries with study completion and publication expected in 2008.
During the past year, the Group’s Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Guidelines were endorsed by the American and European Comparative Gastroenterology Societies and are available on the WSAVA website for viewing and clinical use. Additionally, the Group has been asked by the ACVIM Board of Regents to prepare an ACVIM Consensus Statement on Guidelines for Histopathological Assessment of Intestinal Inflammation in the Dog and cat for the 2008 ACVIM Forum in San Antonio. ACVIM Consensus Statements are designed to provide veterinarians with guidelines regarding the pathophysiology, diagnosis, or treatment of animal diseases. The foundation of the Consensus Statement is evidence-based medicine, but if such evidence is conflicting or lacking, the appointed panels provide interpretive recommendations on the basis of their collective expertise. Topics of statements and panel members to draft the statements are selected by the Board of Regents with input from the general membership. The Group will present its preliminary report at a Full Plenary Session at the ACVIM Forum on June 7, followed by a more formal publication of our Consensus Statement in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine in the Fall of 2008.
The Group will also present a one-hour “final report” of its work at the WSAVA 2008 Congress in Dublin, Ireland. WSAVA World Congress Dublin 2008 Update
As reported in the January WSAVA News, the WSAVA 2008 Congress in Dublin, Ireland has a robust and exciting scientific program that includes more than 200 lectures from 70 different speakers in more than 20 different disciplines. Lectures will be delivered at three different levels: advanced/specialist, general companion animal, and new to/refresher companion animal medicine and include three State-of-the Art Lectures (SOTALs). This will be complemented by two days of free communications/abstracts and one day of pre-congress, satellite events hosted by the Veterinary Emergency & Critical Care Society, European College of Avian Medicine and Surgery, and European Society of Feline Medicine. Visit the Congress website (accessible through www.wsava.org) for the full scientific program and for Congress registration.
But what about the wonderful Congress venue – Dublin and Ireland? While the social programs and congress tours will give attendees a taste of Ireland, there is so much more to see and do for those with the opportunity to spend some extra time exploring their new surroundings. Inhabited for almost 7,000 years, Ireland is an historic island nation, located on the eastern edge of the North Atlantic Ocean. Ireland is recognized as the third largest island within the European continent. The word 'Ireland' originates from the term Ériu, which is Éire in the modern Irish language that conveys the meaning of ‘land'. It is divided up into 32 counties, 26 of which are known as the Republic of Ireland and the remaining six, Northern Ireland. Dublin is the capital city. The terrain tends to be mountainous near coastlines with the midlands being dominated by flat countryside resulting in a land of beautiful and contrasting scenery. The highest peak of Ireland is Carrauntuohill, which is even called as the Carrán Tuathail by the natives, is elevated to a height of about 3,414 feet. The region is intersected by one of the longest river in town known as the River Shannon, that stretches to about 386 km along the land area. The island is nicknamed with the term "Emerald Isle" due to its lush vegetation, mild climate that covers an area of 32,591 square miles.
Nearly 5 million people inhabit this 83,168 sq. km island with 1.5 million living in the capital city of Dublin. Over many centuries this land has experienced a number of incursions and invasions, resulting in a rich mixture of ancestry, culture and tradition. It's known worldwide for fine linen, lace, china, glassware, along with many ales and spirits. In this land of green (the home of Saint Patrick and the Shamrock), all visitors are welcome.
Dublin lies on the east coast of Ireland, with greater Dublin bounded to the north by the Howth Hills and to the south by the Dalkey headland. The river Liffey winds its way through the city centre. Further south of the city lie the Wicklow Mountains with their breathtaking valleys and waterfalls. The city originally came to life as a Viking settlement over one thousand years ago. After the Norman conquest of Ireland in the 12th century, the town developed into an administrative capital, establishing a parliament and government subject to the British Crown. In the early 20th century, Ireland gained independence and Dublin became the political, economic and cultural capital of a fledgling nation. After many years of growth and improved infrastructure, Dublin has emerged as a thriving capital with a prosperous, vibrant population and an illustrious educational and cultural past. Visa Requirements
No visa requirements for EU passport holders. All non-EU citizens should contact their local embassies for specific requirements. An official letter designed to assist in meeting administrative requirements in some countries, will be sent to any participant upon request. However, this invitation implies no obligation, financial or otherwise, by the WSAVA 2008 Organising Committee. Email wsava2008@ovation.ie for more information. Call for Abstract/Free Communication Submission
Submissions are only accepted online and must be completed by 5pm on 1st April 2008. All will be peer-reviewed, submissions will be accepted as oral presentations only, and more than one abstract from the same author is welcome. Presentation of a Clinical Research Abstract at Congress 2008 will entitle the presenting author to free registration on the day of presentation.
For complete Congress details, including online registration, accommodation information, and abstract submission, visit the Congress website by way of the www.wsava.org _____________________________________
WSAVA Monthly NEWs - January, 2008 33rd WSAVA and 14th FECAVA Congress Dublin Ireland 20-24, 2008 The Veterinary Ireland Companion Animal Society (VICAS) will host the World’s companion animal veterinarians at the 33rd WSAVA Congress and 14th European, FECAVA Congress in 2008 in Dublin, Ireland from August 20 to 24, 2008. With over 400 members, VICAS is a growing organization and wish to take this opportunity to invite all our overseas colleagues to an exceptional Congress. The Congress will have a distinctive Irish flavour making attendees’ stay in Ireland a valuable and informative experience.
The 2008 WSAVA/FECAVA Congress will be held in the Royal Dublin Society Convention and Exhibition Centre. The RDS was founded in 1731 to promote the development of agriculture, arts, science, and industry and so it is fitting that a veterinary Congress promoting the advancement of veterinary medicine, veterinary nursing, and veterinary management should be held here. The scientific program includes state of the art lectures and more than 200 lectures from 70 different speakers. The lectures are designed to provide the most recent information on current topics of clinical interest from world renowned veterinary scientists and clinicians in more than 20 different disciplines. Lectures will be delivered at three different levels: advanced/specialist, general companion animal, and new to/refresher companion animal medicine and include three State-of-the Art Lectures (SOTALs):
• Antioxidant deficiencies in hospitalized dogs & cats – L. Trepanier, USA
• Interpreting tests for thyroid disorders – C. Mooney, Ireland
• Genetic advances in neurological disease – J. Penderis, UK
There will also be two days of free communications/abstracts and one day (Wednesday, August 20) of pre-congress, satellite events hosted by the Veterinary Emergency & Critical Care Society, European College of Avian Medicine and Surgery, and European Society of Feline Medicine. Additional CE Opportunities Include:
• A short program devoted to management topics such as stress and the veterinarian, human resource management, work-life balance, current international concepts on veterinary nurses working in practice, starting a small animal practice, entrepreneurship, and marketing.
• The FECAVA Symposium will take a brave step and look at why the veterinary and veterinary nursing professions have such a high incidence of stress and suicide and what can be done to prevent this.
• On the Saturday and Sunday, veterinary nurses can attend a conference which will be practical as well as informative for the backbone of every small animal practice. There will be "How To Sessions", sessions on marketing, ideas on what to do to grow the practice, refresher courses that would also interest trainees studying for exams, and much more.
• Animal Welfare – How can we enrich the environment in small animal practice? This subject which is so basic to our daily work is considered from a very practical practice perspective. For instance how do veterinary practices measure up, how stressed are veterinary patients, and how do veterinarians and their staff deal with it, and are exotic pets an ethical and welfare dilemma?. Then the welfare of working and sporting dogs is considered along with biting dogs. The wide range of CE opportunities offered will not only be educational but also the Congress will provide a venue for renewal of old acquaintances and the creation of new collaborations and friends through a lively social program including: WSAVA 2008 Gala Dinner - Friday 22nd August
In the leafy surrounds of University College Dublin campus, the WSAVA 2008 dinner will take place on Friday, August 22. The five-course banquet in the O'Reilly Hall will be preceded by a champagne reception in the airy conservatory overlooking the campus lake. The evening will conclude with a performance by "Boogie Nights", Ireland’s Number 1 Party Band, who are guaranteed to get the pulses racing,and the dance floor heaving! Traditional Irish Céilí Night - Saturday 23rd August
The Traditional Irish Céilí Night on Saturday, August 23 will be a party night to remember at WSAVA Ireland 2008. The host venue will be Trinity College Dublin, the oldest university in Ireland. The College stands on a self-contained site of architectural riches, cobbled squares, and green spaces in the very heart of Dublin City. Tickets for this event include a spread of the finest Irish cuisine, an all-you-can drink bar, and a fabulous array of Irish musicians with fiddles, flutes, tin whistles, accordions, and bodhráns who are sure to keep the crowd dancing all evening long. Additionally, a number of congress tours are available to attendees, and provide a wonderful opportunity to explore beautiful Dublin and its historic surroundings. Options include:
• Discover the Hidden Secrets of Dublin – Half Day Walking Tour
• The Wild Rover Tour – visit the Guinness brewery and Old Jameson distillery
• Malahide Castleand North Dublin Coastal tour
• Wicklow – A full day tour of the “garden of Ireland” Call for Abstract/Free Communication Submission
Research Abstracts and Free Communications are considered to be an extremely valuable component of the annual WSAVA Congress. They consist of a series of 12-minute oral presentations (plus 3 minutes for discussion) on recent research into various aspects of clinical medicine and surgery.
Submissions are only accepted online and must be completed by 5pm on 1st April 2008. All will be peer-reviewed, submissions will be accepted as oral presentations only, and more than one abstract from the same author is welcome. Presentation of a Clinical Research Abstract at Congress 2008 will entitle the presenting author to free registration on the day of presentation.
For complete Congress details, including online registration, accommodation information, and abstract submission, visit the Congress website at www.wsava2008.com News from Around the World New York—The American Kennel Club® has urged Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA), Chair of the Senate Agriculture Committee and Ranking Member Saxby Chamblis (R-GA) to include in the Senate farm bill an amendment to be proposed by Senator John Kerry (D-MA) which would increase penalties for those who sponsor, attend, or engage in animal fighting ventures. The amendment expands and strengthens the current prohibition in the federal Animal Welfare Act against sponsoring or exhibiting an animal in an animal fighting venture. For decades, the AKC has strongly condemned dog fighting, and has urged rigorous enforcement of statutes prohibiting it. While federal law already prohibits dog fighting, the proposed farm bill amendment would expand and strengthen the current prohibition to include those who knowingly “sponsor” or “attend” a dog fight. Additionally, it would make it unlawful to buy, sell, possess, train, or transport any dog or other animal for the purpose of having the animal participate in an animal fighting venture. The Amendment defines a “dog fighting venture” as an event that involves a fight between at least two animals, including at least one dog, which is conducted for purposes of sport, wagering, or entertainment. It includes language assuring that hunting cannot be construed as an animal fighting venture.
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