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Dechra launches new sedative for dogs
The sedative offers reduced cardiovasculat side effects.

New product promises rapid onset and recovery.

A new sedation medication for dogs has been launched by Dechra, named Zenalpha.

Zenalpha is an alpha-2 agonist and peripheral antagonist combination, which alleviates the stress of sedation.

The medication provides restraint, sedation and analgesia during procedures that are non-invasive, non-painful or mildly painful, which last for less than 30 minutes.

With rapid onset and recovery, it allows for veterinary surgeons to start procedures quickly, and for patients to recover faster. 

Zenalpha is administered intramuscularly and takes five to 15 minutes to take effect. 

Brand manager at Dechra, Claire Westoby, commented: “With an ever-growing range of products for anaesthesia and analgesia, we are delighted to add Zenalpha to our extensive portfolio.

"The next generation of alpha-2 agonists have evolved to provide the same effective and reliable sedation and analgesia, but with reduced cardiovascular side effects and a reduced chance of vomiting.  

“This improves the sedation experience for the canine patient, as well as reducing the associated stress commonly experienced by veterinary teams and dog owners.”

Matt Gurney BVSc CertVA PgCertVBM DipECVAA FRCVS RCVS and EBVS European Specialist in Veterinary Anaesthesia, explained: “Zenalpha not only provides a solution to cases where IV placement is not possible and a rapid onset IM option is required, but it also offers a rapid and complete recovery which ensures that dogs can be reunited with their owners and return home as soon as possible.”

Further information on Zenalpha can be found on the Dechra website at Dechra.co.uk/zenalpha or by contacting a local Dechra territory manager.

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Applications open for MMI research grants

News Story 1
 RCVS' Mind Matters Initiative (MMI) has launched round two of its veterinary mental health research grants.

Researchers have until 11.59pm on Wednesday, 28 May 2025 to apply for a grant for research which reflects MMI's 2025 focus areas.

Only one Impact Grant was awarded last year, and so this year there are two Discovery Grants and one Impact Grants available. Each Discovery Grant is worth £5,000 and the Impact Grant is worth £15,000.

For more information or to apply, email researchgrants@rcvs.org.uk to contact the MMI team.

 

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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.