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BSAVA announces new Manual of Guinea Pigs
The manual has been written and edited by leading international experts John Chitty, Deborah Monks, Anna Meredith and Bob Doneley.

It comes in response to the growing popularity of the species.

The BSAVA has announced the publication of the BSAVA Manual of Guinea Pigs.

Developed in response to the growing popularity of guinea pigs and the increasing depth of veterinary knowledge, this brand-new manual provides a comprehensive and practical guide to their care.

The manual has been written and edited by leading international experts John Chitty, Deborah Monks, Anna Meredith and Bob Doneley, providing an invaluable resource for the entire veterinary team.

John Chitty, editor of the manual, said: “Guinea pig ownership has evolved significantly in recent years, with many owners deeply committed to providing the very best care. This manual delivers the essential knowledge needed to meet those expectations. If you see guinea pigs in your practice, you’ll find this resource invaluable.”

The manual opens with a discussion on the fundamental needs of guinea pigs, offering guidance on adapting routine examinations, basic techniques, and diagnostic processes for this species.

Further chapters explore anaesthesia and analgesia, nursing care and hospital management, diagnostic imaging, and both soft and hard tissue surgery.

The final section focuses on the management of diseases and disorders across all body systems. It also includes three appendices providing a step-by-step guide to investigating thin and anorexic guinea pigs, a formulary of drugs with does and usage notes, and a guide to toxic plants and substances.

The BSAVA Manual of Guinea Pigs is available from the BSAVA Store, with a digital version accessible via the BSAVA Library.

Image (C) BSAVA/Kanyshev Andrey.

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Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Lords Committee opens Pet Parasite Medication inquiry

The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee will launch its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medication (PPM) on Wednesday (3 June).

Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.