Weekly companion animal news: October 26, 2020

U.K. veterinarians call for telemedicine rules to be reinstated

After more than half a year of relaxed telemedicine restrictions, the British Veterinary Association has asked the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons to immediately reinstate the rules it eased last March, the VIN News Service reports. The RCVS has extended the relaxation of its remote prescribing rules several times. The latest extension, until the end of October, prompted the BVA to speak up. BVA president James Russell said the association isn’t necessarily opposed to changing the rules around telemedicine more broadly. Remote prescribing in some instances can make sense, he said. But he added that the association wants a broader RCVS-led consultation process and rule review that began last year to be completed before any changes are enacted. For now, he’s worried pet owners are becoming too accustomed to the current situation, which was meant to be a short-term fix.

British Columbia veterinary shortage exacerbated by pandemic

British Columbia has had a veterinary care shortage for years, but the problem has worsened during the pandemic as pet adoptions rise and safety protocols restrict the number of people allowed in clinics, the Society of B.C. Veterinarians said. “We know for sure that animals are suffering for lack of veterinary care,” said Corey Van’t Haaff, the society’s executive director. “And we know for sure they’re dying.” The problem is most acute in rural areas, but it’s also an issue in urban areas. Some veterinarians in Vancouver are reporting wait times of up to six weeks. “We’re busier than ever,” said one practice owner. “From a business point of view, that’s good. But we feel badly because our patients go without proper care, or have to delay care.” The CBC reports.

A flesh-eating parasite carried by dogs is making its way to North America

Veterinarians in Canada and the United States are reporting cases of Leishmania, a flesh-eating parasite native to tropical and subtropical regions. They’re finding the parasite in imported dogs: It’s been detected in dogs in 18 states and two provinces. More and more, owners are traveling with their pets or importing pets from other countries, three Canada-based scientists write in The Conversation. The regulations for bringing pets into Canada are lax—generally, the only requirements are proof of rabies vaccination and a certificate from a veterinarian declaring the animal to be in apparent good health. Furthermore, since many of the tests and diagnostic treatments for exotic diseases, including leishmaniosis, are unfamiliar or inaccessible in Canada, diagnosis and treatment are complicated. This puts the health of the patient and the public at risk, the researchers write.

Tuskegee receives $40,000 scholarship grant

Zoetis and American Humane have teamed up to donate $40,000 to support students enrolled in the Tuskegee University College of Veterinary Medicine, fellow NAVC publication Today’s Veterinary Business reports. The American Humane Scholars Fund is designed to “help build a more diverse, equitable and inclusive new generation of medical professionals committed to caring for our animals,” the animal welfare group said. Tuskegee graduates more than 70% of African American veterinarians.

Counterfeit Zymox products sold on Amazon, Pet King Brands reports

Pet King Brands reported that counterfeit versions of its Zymox products were recently sold on Amazon. The online retailer is notifying consumers about the products, which were not manufactured by Pet King Brands nor supplied directly to Amazon by Pet King Brands. As a precautionary measure, Pet King Brands officials recommend consumers who have purchased one of the Zymox Ear products directly from Amazon and not from one of the authorized sellers on Amazon to immediately discontinue use and contact Pet King Brands with any questions regarding these products or any other Zymox products purchased directly from the Amazon storefront.

Veramaris microalgae oil receives FDA GRAS approval

Veramaris’ marine microalgae oil has been approved by the FDA under Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) standards. This means customers can now incorporate the product into dog food. According to Veramaris, the ingredient is a new source of omega-3 for pet food that naturally provides two to five times more EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids compared to fish oil.

Study shows continued growth in Fear Free Certified veterinary practices

Veterinary practices continue to see growth across major industry key performance indicators after implementing Fear Free techniques, according to a two-year-long study outlined in a new report. In addition to 10% growth in the number of patients per practice, Fear Free Certified Practices saw a 16% increase in revenue per practice and an 8% increase in total invoice value after two years, according to Fear Free, which provides training to help animal care professionals alleviate fear and anxiety in pets. Compared to benchmark practices that don’t use Fear Free techniques, the certified practices outperform in every category, including lab, vaccine and exam revenue, according to the company.

Midmark extends ‘Shine On’ 2020 program for equipment discounts

Midmark announced the extension of its “Shine On” 2020 discount program. Now through December 31, Midmark offers rebates ranging from $75 to $500 on products such as anesthesia machines, monitors, dental delivery, exam, treatment and surgery tables, sterilizers, LED lighting and seating.