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Weather conditions could explain drop in Alabama rot cases
Alabama rot was first detected in the UK in 2012 but a definitive cause has not yet been identified.
Figures show 10 confirmed cases so far this year 

Vets are reporting a drop in the number of cases of Alabama rot in the first three months of 2019, compared to last year, which could suggest weather conditions are playing a part.

Anderson Moores Veterinary Specialists say there have been a total of 185 cases since 2012, with 10 cases confirmed so far this year.

Leading Alabama rot expert David Walker, of Anderson Moores, said that while the fall in cases is good news we must be “cautious” in attributing reasons for this.

“We’re continually assessing data associated with confirmed cases and their geographical location,” he said, “but one factor we’ve been exploring is the association between increased case numbers and milder, wetter weather in winter and spring.

“Climatic conditions may have been different this year compared to last; however, this anecdotal assessment needs to be scientifically confirmed before we can reach any firm conclusions.”

Alabama rot was first detected in the UK in 2012 but a definitive cause has not yet been identified.

A study by the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) and Anderson Moores last year found 95 per cent of Alabama rot cases were confirmed between November and May. The majority occurred in the west and south of England. Other research by the RVC has suggested gun dogs and hounds are most at risk of contracting the disease.

It has also been suggested that there could be a link with the environmental organism Aeromonas hydrophila, which is implicated in the amphibian disease red leg syndrome. Research undertaken by fish vet Fiona Macdonald last year found a significant number of dogs studied showed an immune response to the organism.

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RUMA CA&E extends survey deadline

News Story 1
 RUMA CA&E has extended the deadline for its online survey into vaccine availability.

Vets, SQPs, retailers and wholesalers will now have until Friday, 26 September at 5pm to submit their response.

The survey aims to further understanding into the vaccine supply challenges faced by the sector. It will also consider the short and long term impacts of disruption issues.

Insights are anonymous, and will be shared with industry stakeholders and government bodies.

The survey can be accessed here

Click here for more...
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Dechra launches checklist for veterinary sustainability

Global animal health specialist Dechra has announced the world's first Veterinary Green Theatre Checklist (VGTC) to help make surgery more sustainable.

Endorsed by leading veterinary organisations, including the BEVA, BVNA and RCVS Knowledge, the checklist is designed to reduce the environmental footprint of veterinary care, while supporting better animal health outcomes.

The checklist was launched at the World Congress of Veterinary Anaesthesia and Analgesia in Paris and will be followed by an internal training and awareness campaign. For more information, visit dechra.com