BSAVA PetSavers announces two new clinical research grants
Applications for funding close on 31 January 2022.
BSAVA PetSavers has announced new joint-funding for two clinical research projects.
Along with the Small Animal Medicine Society (SAMSoc) and The Debs Foundation, BSAVA PetSavers is offering to jointly fund two new specialist clinical research grants, each offering funding of up to £10,000.
Funding clinical research which specifically aims to advance understanding of conditions affecting small animals kept as pets, BSAVA PetSavers selects the projects it funds in the hope that the results will have a positive impact on the way in which diseases are diagnosed, managed, and treated in practice.
The grant with SAMSoc will fund one project on feline and/or canine medical conditions, whilst the grant with The Debs Foundation will fund one project on pain management in companion animals.
Established in 2003, SAMSoc aims to advance the knowledge of small animal medicine within the UK veterinary profession and public. Research and mentor liaison from SAMsoc, Christopher Scudder, commented on the funding: “We are delighted to be able to offer this opportunity alongside BSAVA PetSavers, and hope that the research during this clinical project can help towards our mission of improving the welfare of cats and dogs affected by medical conditions.
“This joint funding enables us to help an individual take the next steps in their career, and we are very proud to be part of it.”
The Debs Foundation, set up in memory of veterinary surgeon Debs Gittleston, supports charities which reflect the causes Debs believed in and advocated for, with a particular emphasis on animal welfare and mental health.
One of the trust's founders, and Debs' brother, David Gittleston, commented on the grant: “The Debs Foundation is thrilled to establish a joint grant with PetSavers for clinical research in the specific area of pain management.
“We have been hugely impressed by the quality, rigour and impact of the research we have supported to date and are delighted to create this new award, which is in a topic that Debs herself wrote a book on for veterinary nurses and technicians.”
Applications for the grant opened on 1 October 2021, and will close of 31 January 2022, and can be made by veterinary practitioners or academics. Joint applications are welcome.
More information about the grants can be found here.
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
