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UK deputy chief veterinary officer appointed
“It is a privilege for me to serve in this role” – Dr Martin-Almagro.
Interim appointment has been made permanent.

Jorge Martin-Almagro has been appointed as the UK deputy chief veterinary officer (DCVO) for international affairs.

He is taking on the role permanently, after serving on an interim basis since July 2023.

During his time as interim DCVO, he has been involved in securing trade deals to export British poultry and pork to Vietnam, lamb to Taiwan and the USA, and pork to Mexico.

Before starting his current job, Dr Martin-Almagro held a variety of roles at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, including as head of international market access. He has also previously served as head of consumer protection at the Food Standards Agency.

As a DCVO, he will be working alongside Christine Middlemiss, UK chief veterinary officer, and Ele Brown, DCVO for national, domestic and exotic diseases.

Dr Martin-Almagro said: “It is a privilege for me to serve in this role, working with Christine, Ele, UK government officials and stakeholders from all over the world to protect animals and the public.

“I look forward to securing new market access opportunities for UK producers, whilst upholding our position as a global leader in animal health and welfare in line with the One Health approach.”

Prof Middlemiss added: “I am delighted to be working with Jorge. I am confident that he will help meet the challenges we face and provide excellent support to myself and Ele Brown, our other UK deputy CVO, on veterinary and technical issues.

“Jorge will be a great asset to UK veterinary services, leading the development of our priority international market access opportunities.”

Image © Defra

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Vets launch new podcast for pet owners

News Story 1
 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.

The venture, called Vets Talking Pets, provides advice and information on a range of topics, including how to select a suitable pet, where to obtain them and how to get the best out of your vet. Maggie and Vanessa will also discuss sensitive subjects, including end-of-life care, raw food diets and the cost of veterinary care.

The podcast can be found on all the usual podcast sites, including Podbean, Apple, Amazon Music and YouTube. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
VMD issues guidance on AVM-GSL packaging

The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) has shared advice on its requirements for medicines considered AVM-GSL.

The guidance explains the information that should be on the outer package, and sets out the typical maximum pack size for an AVM-GSL product. It also describes the user-friendly language, structure and phrases required on packaging and product leaflets.

AVM-GSL products do not require discussion between the purchaser and a veterinary professional. This means that clear product information is needed to support sales choices.

The information will be useful for submitting new products to the AVM-GSL category and lowering the distribution category of products from NFA-VPS to AVM-GSL.

The VMD's guidance can be accessed here.