Professional Education China Companion Animal Welfare Veterinary Program ‘Cure with Care’
2009-2015 Report
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Preface We all turn to professionals for guidance at times, trusting the knowledge of experts to help resolve our problems. That’s why ACTAsia offers training and professional development to the influential members of our communities, such as lawyers, vets, doctors, social workers, teachers, journalists and NGO members. They are essential stakeholders in our campaign for a more humane society. By promoting animal welfare and a compassionate lifestyle to these key stakeholders of our communities, ACTAsia can extend its program to reach many branches of the public. We offer professional workshops and provide information about human and animal welfare, environmental protection and empathic living, to help us spread our message through the authority of respected professionals. In China there are no animal protections laws, and the understanding of animal sentience and welfare is very basic. While society’s understanding of these terms is increasing slowly, professional stakeholders have the authority to really enhance the concepts of sentience, welfare and compassion if they lead by example. That’s why ACTAsia invests in researching and identifying the most important stakeholders in our professional education program, and building long-lasting relationships. It is then our job to provide the information and the tools for our professional advocates (NGO volunteers, veterinarians, lawyers, social workers and more) to promote humane values through their day-to-day work with the public. In China, veterinary professionals play a critical role in promoting positive interactions and relationships between humans and animals. Vets have the authority to work with government agencies to manage stray animals, and have the influence to turn a brutal campaign into a humane program. They are also a key source of information for owners of companion animals, with the power to help Chinese society understand that all animals are sentient, and deserve our respect. Focusing on companion animals, the program teaches vets modern sterilisation techniques, how to manage healthy populations of companion animals, the significance of rabies vaccinations, humane euthanasia and how best to advise owners on the care of their pets. The message of the program is that people and companion animals can live together in harmony. By training vets to become educators themselves and to share their new knowledge with a wider circle of animal professionals in China, ACTAsia’s reach is greatly and effectively increased. Cure with Care is ACTAsia’s veterinary training program. It’s developed and delivered in partnership with Dr. Elaine Ong and her team, Vets for Compassion. We thank Vets Beyond Borders Australia for their support between 2009-2012. We are pleased the program continues to thrive to date.
Pei F. Su Executive Director of ACTAsia
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Contents Who we are
p. 4
Introduction
p. 6
Background
p. 6
Main Aim
p. 6
Key Objectives
p. 6
Overview of Methodology
p. 7
Achievements
p. 8
Quotes from Trainers & Trainees
p. 8
2015 Assessment Visit
p. 11
Why this is a Pioneer Project
p. 11
Conclusion
p. 11
Acknowledgements
p. 12
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ACTAsia www.actasia.org ACTAsia was founded in 2006 by Pei Feng Su and Deepashree Balaram: Ms Su, born in Taiwan, is a sociologist; Ms Balaram, born in India, is a veterinarian. The organisation was created with the sole purpose of helping Asian cultures evolve into caring societies, respecting all forms of life. ACTAsia is a registered charity in the UK and The Netherlands, a 501(c)3 in the US and a recognised charitable organisation in China with a designated office in Zhongshan. Currently an application is in progress for charitable status in Australia. ACTAsia is currently staffed by 6 paid full time employees and 2 part time employees: the Executive Director based in the UK with 4 full time and 2 part time employees (Chinese nationals) based in China, and 1 in Europe. In addition there is a large and growing band of volunteers working in China, also an international Board of Advisors. Although a relatively young organisation – 10 years in 2016 – there is extensive knowledge and experience within the organisation as many of the staff, advisors and volunteers have worked for decades as professionals in the field of animal welfare, human welfare and education. On April 30th, 2015, ACTAsia was listed as one of “Top 10 Influential Institutions of China’s Urbanisation in 2014” in the China Urbanisation International Summit.
Vets For Compassion Australia www.vetsforcompassion.org The Mission of Vets for Compassion is to improve animal welfare in Australia and internationally through the following: •Sustainable Education of vets and vet professionals to the highest of standard of compassionate care of companion and stray animals. •Co-ordinate emergency response to natural disasters through provision of highly trained vets and vet professional to help affected wildlife, farm and companion animals. Vets For Compassion aims to achieve its mission by working with compassionate, dedicated, specialised organisations with similar goals and always aiming to work with the optimum level of resource efficiency.
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China Local Team
ACTAsia coordinator: Isobel Zhang
Team Members of VBB in China between 2009-2015
Yongjun Zhang (Director of Beijing Long An Animal Hospital) Nan Song (Vice President of Beijing Small Animal Veterinary Association) Miao Jiao (Director of Shou Wang Zhe Animal Hospital) Lei Duan (Director of Changsha Meow Ji Quan Ji Pet Hospital) Zhijuan Yin (Director of Nanjing Zhixin Pet Clinic, Board Member of Guanxi Small Animal Veterinary Association) Ye Liu (veterinarian of Beijing Long An Animal Hospital and director of nursing department) Ye He (attending doctor of Beijing Rongan pet hospital) Jie Wang (Director of Shenzhen Petl Hospital) Shengyin Zou (Director of Shenzhen Huanan pet hospital) Xinyang Guo (Beijing Long An Animal Hospital) Yi Liang (Director of Shenzhen Ruipeng Pet Hospital) Weidong Fan (Director of Shenzhen Renhe Animal Hospital) Jiang Gui’e（Director of Shenzhen Ruipeng Pet Hospital) Xue Xunjie, (Director of Beijing Jun Jie Animal Hospital)
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Introduction: This paper gives a brief overview of the veterinary training programme and its delivery over the past 5 years. Detailed reports are available for each year’s action (see additional information in Appendix 5) and also include details of methodology, participating local partners and evaluation. ACTAsia is responsible for the strategic planning and logistics of the programme and Vets Beyond Borders(VBB) Australia deliver the programme. Participants are given a veterinary training manual, (259 pages in both English and Chinese languages) designed by Dr. Chris Barton; Dr. Elaine Ong, specific to the needs of China Background: In 2009 ACTAsia in collaboration with Vets Beyond Borders (VBB) Australia, introduced a veterinary training programme for vets in China. Through extensive research over 3 years, anecdotal evidence and visits to veterinary clinics to observe attitudes and techniques, it became apparent that many veterinarians in China had little knowledge and understanding of animal welfare concepts. Veterinary training in universities has little focus on companion animal issues, yet veterinarians have an essential role in improving animal welfare and humane rabies control. The increasing number of stray animals in China is becoming a significant welfare problem, with methods of control largely inhumane and ineffective e.g. indiscriminate mass culling of thousands of dogs when a problem is brought to the attention of the authorities such as noise pollution; bites; rabies outbreak. Rabies is a significant animal and human welfare issue in China, with more than 3,000 human deaths each year. There is no co-ordinated government strategy, low awareness of the disease and access to post-exposure treatment, also low vaccination of dogs. (The co-founder of ACTAsia, Dr. Deepashree Balaram is now an Advisor to ACTAsia in her role as co-ordinator of the Global Alliance for Rabies Control) ACTAsia’s observations during research visits to veterinary clinics revealed serious welfare issues relating to animal handling, pain relief, providing a sterile environment, the suitability of drugs and sutures used, also the general overall attitude and interest of the veterinarians. There is little co-operation with vets and the fledgling animal protection groups, although there are some vets who do spay and neuter cats for such groups at a low cost. However their work tends to be of a low standard resulting in a high death toll of animals. To address these shortcomings, ACTAsia for Animals and Vets Beyond Borders decided to design a programme specific to the needs of China. This programme has been running for 5 years. Main Aim: To enable Chinese veterinarians to develop animal welfare knowledge, humane technical skills and to apply their learning to significantly improve the lives of animals in China. Key objectives: • • • •
To train veterinarians to become trainers and take on ownership for the programme. To develop collaboration between veterinarians and animal protection groups. To promote humane methods of spay/neuter through their veterinary clinics. To provide training to animal protection groups relating to co-operation with veterinarians, planning and implementing education, and awareness programmes. 6
•
To inspire and encourage veterinarians to further develop their theoretical knowledge and practical expertise, through continuing professional education opportunities.
Overview of Methodology: Initially through veterinary training workshops in collaboration with Beijing General Station of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services (Beijing Agricultural Bureau) and Capital Animal Welfare Association. As the training programme expands to other areas, it is anticipated that local veterinary bodies will become involved. A typical workshop schedule is as follows: Day 1. Seminar: theory, demonstrations, Q&A session. Participants i.e. veterinarians; veterinary assistants; government officials; representatives of local animal protection groups. Days 2-3. Practical spay/neutering sessions – numbers of vets for training are restricted depending on facilities for surgical procedures. However, additional days can be added if more vets apply for the training in each respective city. A parallel 2 day session is held for volunteers of local animal protection groups, covering the same subjects but at a basic level. Also discussion on planning a public education programme to promote spay/neutering and responsible pet ownership. Day 4. Q&A session to clarify and reinforce key points. Content taught through both practical and theoretical training is: • Pre-Surgery Briefing • Animal Handling Principles • Anaesthesia • Surgical Preparation • Surgery Procedure • Essential Procedures • Recovery
Achievements 2009-15:
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• To date, 792 vets have been trained in theoretical spay/neuter techniques and 181vets trained in practical techniques. Please see Table below for more detailed information. • At each session, potential trainers were identified with specific training arranged. • Publication of the Trainer Vet Guidelines in Chinese - a document providing guidelines and a structure for trainers certified by VBB to deliver comprehensive training sessions to other vets. • Publication of the Trainee Vet Manual in Chinese (250+pages) - a compilation of veterinary reference materials, charts and procedures related to the skills and welfare standards required to conduct successful spay/neuter operations in a clinical setting. It also provides other useful resources that are related to general practice. •Creation and dubbing of audio/visual materials such as online videos to facilitate veterinary knowledge. •Additional veterinary information materials have been translated and distributed. The Beijing Veterinary Association expressed interest in using the materials as standard protocol for their members. •From 2013 the Chinese trainers led the workshops without attendance from VBB personnel. •All China Trainers are now using internationally accepted anaesthesia methods. •All China Trainers now have a much shorter post-op recovery period (reduced from 1 week to 2 days) •All China Trainers now do not dress recovering animals in full gowning during the post-op period. •All China Trainers can sterilise at approx. 8 weeks of age (previously 6 months +) •During 2009-2011, cat neutering in Shenzhen increased by 60% and cooperative relationships between veterinarians and animal protection organisations strengthened. • During 2013-14, the China Vet Team took initiative and continued training sessions without direct participation from VBB or ACTAsia.
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VBB Theory 2009 Shenzhen 2009 Beijing 2010 Shenzhen 2010 Beijing 2011 Dalian 2012 Guangzhou 2012 Beijing 2012 Dalian 2013 Nanning 2014 Dongguan 2014 Shanghai 2014 Beijing 2015 Shenzhen 2015 Xi’an Sub Totals Total vets trained btw 2009-2015 Total Trained
China Trainers Theory Practical
Practical 51
40
32
16
110
0
69
36
50
0
90
8
50
12
40 492
30
6
50
10
50
16
70
14
60
11
40
12
300
69
0 112 492
300 792
Quotes from Trainers and Trainees: 2009: Qin Xiao Na, Director of CAWA said, “This news is fantastic. It is an essential step for us and other animal protection organisations in Beijing that are carrying out TNR. In the past, every time when we asked for use of absorbable sutures, which can help shorten recovery time to stitch the wound, we had to pay extra fees. Therefore, we are grateful to ACTAsia for organising this workshop which contributes to promoting Beijing government’s decisions on offering free sutures. It is not only good for animals but is helpful for us to cut down on the costs. ” 2013: Dr. Yin Zhijuan: ‘I have participated in ACTAsia veterinary training programs three times and I have learnt a lot. Through this activity, I know how VBB vets pay constant attention to animal welfare and treat animals correctly during the treatment. I felt moved by their attitudes to animals. After joining the VBB Chinese team, I’ve been wishing to bring this program to my hometown so that more animals can enjoy the welfare and we can keep up with the rest of the world.’ 2014: Jia Fangkuo: ‘This training is essential because it rectifies many basic improper practices which were ignored before.’ Zhao Kechun: ‘I am even worse than their assistants. At school there were many things teachers didn’t tell us. This is a really good opportunity. After I return, I will share with other colleagues every detail and step learnt. I totally agree with the idea of TNR. I hope that later, I can find some stray cats every week and help them to be neutered.’ Fu Qiang: ‘This session showing the latest developments makes me see how far we fall behind. What we lack are standards, standards in both operation techniques and disinfection and sterilisation. Also, I have learned the importance of teamwork and cooperation between physicians and assistants. A successful operation comprises good mindset, correct practice and teamwork.’
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Whilst ACTAsia and VBB are encouraged and feel positive about the progress of the programme, it is recognised that the Chinese trainers need further monitoring and motivating to meet high standards for example in the provision of pre/post operative care for the animals; suitable cages in quiet secure areas; approved drugs and materials available is often overlooked. Sometimes when operating, either important steps are left out of the process or a flippant attitude prevails. Generally the attitude to animal welfare is of less interest to the Chinese trainers than the technical aspects, so we accept that widespread positive change with regard to welfare is likely to be a slow process.
2015 Assessment Visit: As a result of the above, in 2015 an assessment visit was made by Dr. Elaine Ong and her veterinary nurse to the trainers’ clinics in China, to establish whether the veterinarians have incorporated what they have learned into their regular clinical practices. From 28 August - 8 September, 6 of the VBB approved trainers and their clinic facilities were assessed. A short seminar was held for approx 40 vets in Shenzhen who help NGOs by offering low cost or free neutering services. A Q&A session followed the seminar.
Why this is a Pioneer Project: Comments from vets trained by ACTAsia/VBB and personnel from Beijing Small Animal Association expressed frustrations and concerns with foreign training programme contents as generally the content is pitched way above their understanding. They request a structured training programme which needs a solid foundation as at present they have limited knowledge and lack the necessary skills on which to build. They do of course know of advances in e.g. neurology, orthopaedics, cardiology etc. but such information is currently of no use to them, as there are large gaps in their knowledge, understanding and practice through the ‘missing steps’ in their veterinary education. ACTAsia/VBB’s vet training course serves to fill the ‘missing steps’ and to provide the necessary foundations for progress.
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Conclusion: It is not possible in this short paper to highlight the enormous social challenges facing China at the present time and it is difficult for those of us living in other countries to understand the complexities which affect the lives of individuals. Therefore it is not surprising that so many well intentioned international human, animal and environmental programmes exported to China, fail to justify the efforts and finance applied. ACTAsia’s aim is not to judge or condemn, but to work in harmony and co-operation with the veterinary profession in China. We are working to provide a base for vets in China, on which they can build their knowledge and expertise, and therefore benefit from other international opportunities. Currently through our research and pioneering work with Dr. Elaine Ong, we consider this approach will enable our combined efforts to be sustainable in the long-term.
Acknowledgements Organisers: ACTAsia, VBB, SZCat, CAWA, BJSAVA, Diagnosis and treatment society, subsidiary to Dongguan Association of Animal & Veterinary Sciences, THINKING ADOPTION, Diagnosis and treatment society, subsidiary to Shanghai Association of Animal & Veterinary Sciences, TACN, Vets for Compassion. Co-Organisers: Shenzhen pet hospital, President of the Federation, Guangdong Pet Industry Association, Xijiao Animal Clinic, Ruipeng Pet Hospital, Shenzhen Helida Agricultural Science & Technology Co., Ltd, BJSAVA, The western suburbs of Beijing Animal Hospital, Shenzhen Rui Peng pet medical service agency, Dalian World Forum, Capital Animal Welfare Association (CAWA), Dalian pet forum www.pet100.cn, Guangzhou Small Animal Veterinary Association www.gzcat.org, Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Station of Beijing Municipal Bureau of Agriculture (www.bjxsh.com), Beijing Animal Hospital, Beijing Long An Animal Hospital, Dalian Dog Management Office, Guangxi Pet Veterinary Association, Nanning Mi Bao Animal Hospital, Shenzhen Cat Net, Dongguan Stray Cat Salvation Volunteer Team, Xi’an Small Animal Diagnosis and Treatment Industry Association, Clinical teaching hospital of Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Xi’an Bangtai Animal Hospital, Xi’an PET Animal Hospital Sponsors: Naturewatch, Humane Society International, ACTAsia, VBB, Animal husbandry and veterinary station of Beijing Municipal Bureau of Agriculture, CAWA, HSI, One Voice for Animals, International Fund for Cat Welfare(IFCW) www.ifcw.net, Diamond Valley Veterinary Hospital, Box Hill Veterinary Hospital, Ms Julian Chen, International Fund for Cat Welfare (IFCW), www.ifcw.net, Humane Society International, www.hsus.org/his, La Fondation Brigitte Bardot, www.fondationbrigittebardot.fr, Shenzhen Ka Aite Public Cultural Transmission Institute, Guangzhou Hongtailang Bioscience Corporation, Dongguan Kubailai Pet Investment and Development Company Ltd, Bai’er (Sichuan) animal care Co. Ltd, Shuoteng (Shanghai) animal care Co.Ltd, Shanghai Gangrui pet Co.Ltd, Shanghai Yulan pet Co.Ltd, School of agriculture, SJTU, Shanghai Songjiang Agricultural College, Zhumengyuan, Shanghai Beikang pet hospital, Beijing Zhonglian Animal Co. Ltd, Lan (Hong Kong) Science and Technology Co. Ltd, The Liang Family Trust of Melbourne, Xiuzheng Pharmaceutical Group, Xi’an Merlot Trading Company, Shanghai Hanwei Biological Pharmaceutical Science and Technology Co.Ltd, China Combine Animal Care Co.Ltd, Zoetis (Shanghai) Enterprise Management Co.Ltd, Xi’an Ying Xi Biological Co.Ltd, Misha Foundation from The Cat Clinic in Australia and Mrs. Julian Chen from Shenzhen, Dr Chinny Krishna from Blue Cross of India, Weihai Wego Fusen Medical Co.Ltd, Dr Shauna O’ Meara (Pet-Informed), Dr Ingwersen (WSAVA), all volunteers and translators. Participants: Candor Pet Hospital, Lucky Cats, Cool Pet, SZCat, Shenzhen stray dog shelter, Beautiful new world, AAC China, Beijing Meilian Zhonghe Puppytown Animal Hospital, Beijing Meilian Zhonghe Banlv Animal Hospital, Beijing Long An Animal Hospital, Beijing Jun Jie Animal Hospital, Dalian Bo Ai Animal Hospital, Shenzhen Ruipeng Pet Hospital, Guangzhou Haizhu Ruipeng Pet Hospital, Nanning Feral Cat BBS, TNRing team, Beijing Rongan animal clinic, Bei11
jing Chongzeyuan animal clinic, Beijing Wanmei animal clinic, Beijing Tangmulong animal clinic, Beijing Ming’anxing animal clinic, Long An Animal Clinic, Lucky Dogs & Cats Pet Clinic, Liuzhou Xiao Li Pet Hospital, Nanning A Rong Pet Hospital, Shenzhen Ren He Pet Hospital, Shenzhen Huanan Pet Hospital, Shenzhen Pet Medical Association, Xi’an Red Pomegranate Lecturers: Dr. Elaine Ong, Dr. Beth McGennisken, Ms Ann Letch, Ms Robyn Ireland, Dr. Chris Barton, Dr. Richard Gowan, Dr. Charmaine Tham, Ms Carolyn Maguire, Mr Jimmy Pa, Ms Elaine Dion, Ms Ann Rekin, Dr. Wang Ruoying, Dr. Wu Zhongheng, Dr. Zhang Zicong.
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