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Technicians push to be renamed 'veterinary nurses'
vet nurse
NAVTA wants to see the title 'veterinary nurse' used in all 50 states, as it is in the UK and Australia.
Current system causing confusion among public and profession

Veterinary technicians in the US could see their titles changed to 'veterinary nurse' in the next decade. There are also plans to bring in a national standard for credentialing.

The National Association of Veterinary Technicians (NAVTA) in America says the current system - which varies from state to state - has 'led to confusion for the veterinary consumer and within the veterinary profession'.

In some states there is effectively no distinction between credentialed veterinary technicians and non-credentialed. Those that are credentialed will typically have completed a two or four-year programme accredited by the AVMA and will have completed a national exam.

NAVTA wants to see the title 'veterinary nurse' used in all 50 states, as it is in the UK and Australia, as well as a national standard for the maintenance of credentials.

'Establishing a single and standard title is the first step in the process to clarify the important role of the profession and provide enhanced patient care,' it said in a statement. 'Pets and pet owners are best protected and cared for by formally trained and credentialed veterinary nurses.'

The process is expected to take five to 10 years to implement. Over the coming year, NAVTA will consider the best options and consult with relevant professional and legal organisations. It will then develop a strategic plan based on the feedback.

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Birmingham Dogs Home makes urgent appeal

News Story 1
 Birmingham Dogs Home has issued an urgent winter appeal as it faces more challenges over the Christmas period.

The rescue centre has seen a dramatic increase in dogs coming into its care, and is currently caring for over 200 dogs. With rising costs and dropping temperatures, the charity is calling for urgent support.

It costs the charity £6,000 per day to continue its work.

Fi Harrison, head of fundraising and communications, said: "It's heart-breaking for our team to see the conditions some dogs arrive in. We really are their last chance and hope of survival."

More information about the appeal can be found here. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Avian flu confirmed at premises in Cornwall

A case of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been detected in commercial poultry at a premises near Rosudgeon, Cornwall.

All poultry on the infected site will be humanely culled, and a 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone have been put in place. Poultry and other captive birds in the 3km protection zone must be housed.

The case is the second avian flu case confirmed in commercial poultry this month. The H5N5 strain was detected in a premises near Hornsea, East Riding of Yorkshire, in early November. Before then, the disease had not been confirmed in captive birds in England since February.

The UK chief veterinary officer has urged bird keepers to remain alert and practise robust biosecurity.

A map of the disease control zones can be found here.