BVA launches policy position on NTCAs
81 per cent of veterinary surgeons are concerned that the welfare needs of NTCAs are not being met.
BVA has published a new policy position on non-traditional companion animals (NTCAs). The position sets out how to protect the welfare needs of NTCAs, also known as exotic pets, amid growing concern from veterinary surgeons that many owners are failing to look after them responsibly.
Their complex welfare needs and husbandry requirements can make exotic pets a challenge to care for, especially if owners lack the required knowledge or do not have the resources to provide them with a suitable environment.
Developed by the BVA NTCA Working Group, the policy position makes 32 recommendations to improve the welfare of NTCAs. The recommendations range from requiring keepers to pass a knowledge test before they buy an exotic animal, to ensuring that all veterinary surgeons can confidently handle and examine the most commonly seen NTCA species when they graduate.
The launch of the new policy position comes at a time when there is widespread concern among veterinary professionals about the welfare of NTCAs.
BVA’s 2022 Voice of the Veterinary Profession survey revealed that 81 per cent of veterinary surgeons are concerned that the welfare needs of NTCAs are not being met. The most commonly cited cause of welfare issues was ‘irresponsible animal ownership’ (81 per cent). Other causes cited included ‘irresponsible breeding or sourcing’ (11 per cent) and ‘lack of specialist veterinary care’ (10 per cent).
The survey also found 26 per cent of veterinary surgeons who treat NTCAs have seen an increase in the number of animals brought in for treatment.
Justine Shotton, BVA senior vice-president, said: “We know people who keep these animals have the right intentions to give them best care they can but their needs are so complex it can be difficult to do so, particularly if they are a new pet and owners are not sure exactly what they need.
“It is so important that potential buyers give careful consideration to buying such an animal before bringing one home. We’d also urge any vets who are approached by potential keepers for advice to strongly encourage them to do their research to ensure they have the skills and knowledge to care for them properly before buying an exotic species.”
The full policy statement is available to read on the BVA’s website.
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
