Candidate speaks of new approach
With strong views on pet diets, Thomas Lonsdale primarily hopes a position on the RCVS Council will help him voice his concerns to the veterinary industry.
Mr Lonsdale believes that the RCVS is in need of change when it comes to communicating with the profession.
He explained: "A wide-ranging parliamentary enquiry needs to be established to research and re-evaluate the role of vets in society.
"A new Veterinary Surgeons Act and a new-look regulator should then be established with a completely different approach to communicating with the profession."
However, Mr Lonsdale said he feels it is appropriate for the regulator to publish and administer a set of standards for veterinary practices, "on the condition that the RCVS first puts its own house in order".
He explained that, alternatively, he believes the RCVS Council should be dismissed and "the house" be put in order by an administrator.
When asked what his recommendations would be to the RCVS's CEO, Nick Stace, he said: "Alerting the RCVS to congent analysis and recommendations is a useful first step.
"Beyond that, I believe that Mr Stace, as a newcomer, should take steps to inform himself thoroughly and within a reasonable time frame publish his wish list for improvements at the RCVS."
Mr Lonsdale, who first stood for election in 1997, explained that each year he stands so "there may be increased opportunity to exert some influence" regarding pet food.
Speaking on the veterinary surgeon's responsibility to minimise antimicrobial resistance, Mr Lonsdale explained: "For sure, at superficial and practical level vets have responsibilities.
"However, I believe it goes much deeper and relates to the veterinary profession's slavish adherence to the germ theory of disease – for the most part, germs only take over/take advantage when conditions are favourable."
A graduate from the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) in 1972, Mr Lonsdale believes there are "serious shortcomings" in veterinary research and teaching.
He commented that, unless this changes, he feels vet students will treat patients and prescribe drugs in an "outmoded, blinkered fashion".
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.
