Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 18th October 2022
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

Views sought on plans to ease OV shortage
Official veterinarians have an essential role to play in maintaining the delivery of official controls.
The FSA is engaging with abattoirs on proposed changes to the delivery of official controls.

As the UK veterinary workforce crisis deepens, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) has written to abattoir workers inviting feedback on proposed changes to how FSA delivers controls through Official Veterinarians (OVs).

Figures released by the RCVS show that between 2019 and 2021, joiners to the UK veterinary profession fell by 26 per cent, while 2020 saw the highest number of vets leaving UK practice in 10 years. A Public Accounts Committee report released last week attributes this shortfall to many factors, including COVID-19, Brexit, a rise in pet ownership and increased demand for vets for Export Health Certification. 

Official veterinarians have an essential role to play in maintaining the delivery of official controls. The FSA fears that without a consistent supply of OVs, abattoirs will be unable to operate - and there would be significant consequences for the UK's £9 billion meat industry.

FSA director of operations, Junior Johnson, commented: “Despite challenges in veterinary recruitment, the Food Standards Agency has maintained full and ongoing service delivery of official controls in abattoirs, and there has been no interruption in service to date. 

“Official veterinarians are, however, in very short supply, and we are working with partners to find solutions to what is a systemic resourcing issue so that the FSA can continue to provide a reliable service to industry and uphold food safety, protect animal health and welfare, and enable businesses to sell food domestically and abroad.” 

FSA sent a letter to abattoirs and cutting plants on Thursday (13 October) inviting feedback on how these changes may impact their business. The insight will help inform the association's decision-making and guide the subsequent steps.

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

New roadshow brings free flea and tick checks to dog owners

News Story 1
 A nationwide roadshow offering free, personalised parasite risk assessments and flea and tick checks will be visiting popular dog events across the UK.

The All About Dogs shows in Norfolk and Knebworth, will be among the first events to host MSD Animal Health's Big Parasite Check campaign, which aims to address common misconceptions and highlight the importance of year-round parasite protection.

A total of six dog-friendly events will feature the free clinics from summer through to winter. Full roadshow dates and locations are available on The Big Parasite Check map or through your local MSD Animal Health Representative.  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
BVA urges 'continued vigilance' over bluetongue

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has urged vigilance following a concerning rise in Bluetongue (BTV) cases in sheep and cattle.

In a recent statement, the BVA noted that members are reporting more severe clinical signs and higher mortality rates than in previous years.

'We know that farm vets are working hard to support farmers and animals affected by this outbreak, during what is an extremely difficult time for all involved,' they stated. 'Continued vigilance to identify disease early is vital and vaccination remains the best way of protecting animals from this disease.'