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Deadline extended for signing TB contracts
cows
Fewer practices in Devon and Cornwall have signed the contracts, so the original deadline has been extended to 14 May.
Practices in Devon and Cornwall get three-week extension

Veterinary practices in Devon and Cornwall have been given a three-week extension on the deadline for signing new TB testing contracts.

Earlier this week, the BVA called for the deadline to be extended as many members were concerned that the short time frame would not allow them to scrutinise the contracts.

A large number of veterinary practices in four of the five English regions have already signed the new contracts, according to the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA).

However, uptake has been lower in Devon and Cornwall, so the original deadline of 24 April has been extended to 14 May.

The news was revealed in a letter from APHA's veterinary director Simon Hall, which was addressed to the BVA and British Cattle Veterinary Association (BCVA).

BVA's president John Blackwell welcomed the extension, saying it will give practices in Devon and Cornwall time to seek further clarification and legal advice if need be.

"The large numbers of veterinary practices signing up to the new contracts for TB testing across four of the five English regions demonstrates that the veterinary profession has prioritised delivery of TB testing for the public good, and will ensure that the fight against TB will continue without delay..." he added.

"The control of TB is most effectively delivered through nurturing strong collaboration and working relationships within the profession. The strong engagement of the veterinary profession with the new TB testing arrangements shows yet again that veterinary surgeons put their professional duties first."

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Free CPD announced for BVNA members

News Story 1
 Zoetis is to present a CPD event for free to members of the British Veterinary Nursing Association (BVNA).

Led by veterinary consultant Ruth Moxon, the one-hour online session is designed to help veterinary nurses discuss parasiticide options with clients. It will advise on structuring recommendations, factors for product choice and moving away from 'selling'.

'How do you recommend parasite treatments to your clients?' will be presented on Tuesday, 20 May at 7.30pm. It is free for BVNA members, with 15.00 tickets for non-members.

Veterinary nurses can email cpd@bvna.co.uk to book their place. 

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News Shorts
BBC Radio 4 documentary addresses corporate fees

BBC Radio 4's File on 4 Investigates has released a documentary exploring how corporate-owned veterinary practices may be inflating bills to increase profit.

Released on 15 April, 'What's Happening To Your Vet Bills?' revealed the policies which many corporate groups have in place to increase their profits. This included targets and upgrades which veterinary teams are tasked with meeting on a regular basis.

It also features Anrich Vets, an independently-owned practice based in Wigan. Following the case of Staffordshire terrier Benjy, who is diagnosed with a tumour, the documentary shares how the team were able to offer contextualised care and advice to make the procedure as affordable as possible for his owners.

The documentary can be heard on demand on BBC iPlayer.