NZVA Feb-March 2021 by NZ Farmlife Media

The offi c i a l m a ga z i n e o f t h e N ew Zea l a n d Veterina ry A ssoc ia t ion • Februa ry/ Ma rch 2021

February/March 2021 • The official magazine of the New Zealand Veterinary Association • What is a veterinary business? Facing the future in 2021 and beyond • PLUS: The latest in pathology, research and CPD opportunities •

What is a veterinary business? Facing the future in 2021 and beyond

Skin deep Pathologists investigate what’s ailing a lumpy alpaca

Body issues Can we do more to protect patients from breed health problems?

Priority number one What’s being done to alleviate the shortage of veterinarians

PLUS: The latest research and CPD opportunities

VetScript February/March 2021

REGISTRATIONS OPEN 1 MARCH 2021

REGISTRATIONS OPEN 2 AUGUST 2021

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Contents 16 Editorial

In the workplace

Mirjam Guesgen, VetScript Editor

Supporting leaders in leadership

News and views

Kevin Bryant, NZVA CEO

Breakroom brain-buster

In short

Massey research update

Animal welfare and ethics update

NZVJ preview

Seton Butler, VCNZ

The phenotypic vice Features

Greater than the sum of its parts

40 42

Start the year off right In the lab

Catch your breath

The case of the lumpy lamoid

Five steps to help become facial eczema free VetLearn

Take a look at the exciting opportunities for professional development Classifieds

Jobs on offer and things for sale

The next business evolution

Up in the air

VetScript February/March 2021

News and views Editorial

www.nzva.org.nz

VetScript February/March 2021 • vol 34 • no 1 ISSN 1170-280X Cover image Veterinary buiness 2021 and beyond (IMAGE: ISTOCKPHOTO.COM )

VetScript is published bi-monthly by the New Zealand Veterinary Association (NZVA) as a service to its members. Publisher Tony Leggett T: 06 280 3162 M: 027 4746 093 E: tony.leggett@nzfarmlife.co.nz Editor Mirjam Guesgen M: 022 099 7734 E: vetscript@vets.org.nz Advertising Manager Tony Leggett T: 06 280 3162 M: 027 4746 093 E: tony.leggett@nzfarmlife.co.nz Classifieds Administrator E: classifieds@vets.org.nz Art Director Amanda Trayes M: 027 4746 093 NZVA office Level 2, 44 Victoria Street Wellington Central PO Box 11212, Manners Street Wellington 6142, New Zealand T: 04 471 0484 F: 04 471 0494 E: nzva@vets.org.nz www.nzva.org.nz NZVA Board Independent Chair: Flora Gilkison President: Grant McCullough Members: Peter Blaikie, Mark Bryan, Kate Hill, Cath Watson Disclaimer VetScript is published by the New Zealand Veterinary Association Incorporated (NZVA). The views expressed in the articles and letters do not necessarily represent those of the NZVA or the editor and neither the NZVA nor the editor endorses any products or services advertised. The NZVA is not the source of the information reproduced in this publication and has not independently verified the truth of the information. It does not accept legal responsibility for the truth or accuracy of the information contained herein. Neither the NZVA nor the editor accepts any liability whatsoever for the contents of this publication or for any consequences that may result from the use of any information contained herein or advice given herein. This provision is intended to exclude the NZVA, the editor and its staff from all liability whatsoever, including liability for negligence in the publication or reproduction of the material set out herein. The entire content of VetScript is copyrighted by the NZVA. VetScript is produced for NZVA members and approved subscribers only. No material from this publication may be reproduced in any form, or quoted from either directly or indirectly in other media, without the permission of the editor.

VetScript February/March 2021

Planning ahead – not just for fish By Mirjam Guesgen

nimals have a way of surprising us. The unassuming or overlooked can become the interesting and investigated through a single observation. For example, in the spring of 2018 scientists observed a fish doing something unusual. On the shores of a tiny island in the south central Red Sea, a titan triggerfish was hovering in shallow water. Every now and again they would rush into the shallows and attempt to nab a crab – and despite the serious risk of a beaching, that persistence paid off. The snack was caught. It was pure luck that a fish enthusiast happened to be strolling along the shore at the time and recorded the event on his phone camera. Then through careful study, researchers concluded that what they’d seen was a clever hunting strategy. The video reinvigorated interest in the species – interest that had waned since a series of experiments by a German ichthyologist in the 1970s (who, by the way, fondly named his study subjects Odonus, Flip and Berta). The 2018 observation led researchers to believe that triggerfish were among other species who were capable of planning and problemsolving. The German ichthyologist had thought as much too, showing that triggerfish could use their bodies to lift or flip containers out of the way when they were obscuring food items. With planning and problem-solving you can get to that bit of food when others can’t, and you won’t end up beached on the shores of an island. It will give you an advantage over those who rely solely on resources coming their way. And hey, if fish can do it, surely so can we. In the first big feature of this refreshed VetScript, journalist Owen Poland considers the veterinary businesses of 2021 and how they can plan for the years and decades ahead. Business leaders from throughout the veterinary profession offer their perspectives and ideas, with hopes of inspiring veterinarians to think creatively about business resilience. The magazine also includes a column from VCNZ’s Seton Butler, who shares how a bit of preparation and delegating tasks to other veterinary professionals can save veterinarians from undue stress. He explains the procedures that veterinary nurses, veterinary technicians and other allied veterinary professionals can undertake, and how to navigate consent, competency and accountability. Welcome to 2021, and let’s plan for a positive year ahead! Mirjam Guesgen, Editor, VetScript

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News and views Priority number one

Stopping the gap

We are also ensuring that exemptions can be secured for the whole profession, including production, companion and equine veterinarians, and for those in education roles. Other initiatives to address the shortage include:

NZVA CEO Kevin Bryant says alleviating the shortage of veterinarians is the organisation’s number one priority.

Â creating a dedicated section on our website that targets overseas veterinarians Â working closely with VCNZ to develop an online expression of interest form that can match the needs of potential employers with suitable veterinarians

he NZVA is concerned for the wellbeing of veterinarians, who are under ongoing and increasing pressure – in part due to the veterinary shortage that has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 border restrictions. Veterinarians in all parts of the profession are impacted by the stressful year that was 2020. Adding to the load is that the public’s understanding of this pressure varies. We are also concerned about the impacts that compromised veterinary wellbeing may have on animal welfare, food safety and biosecurity if veterinarians are not available to respond to client needs, and the general demands of the job.

VetScript February/March 2021

Â advertising in countries with veterinary qualifications that enable rapid VCNZ registration Â profiling New Zealand as a safe and healthy destination, offering a great lifestyle Â providing a comprehensive briefing for, and lobbying communication to, the incoming Minister and Associate Minister of Agriculture Â continuing to lobby officials and work with stakeholders to help advocate on our behalf.

We know that some veterinarians have moved away from the profession for their own and their families’ wellbeing. While we wholeheartedly support them in making this choice, we also want to do everything we can to support them to stay in this critically important profession. With this in mind the NZVA has made addressing the shortage its number one priority. This has included redoubling efforts to bring more veterinarians into the country. We are working hard to secure additional entry exemptions from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, the Ministry for Primary Industries and Immigration New Zealand, while at the same time advocating for a simpler and more efficient visa application process.

Â asking veterinary businesses to provide us with solid data on current vacancies, including type of vacancy (eg, small animal), their physical location, experience required of applicants and the remuneration offered

We are hopeful that these efforts will bear fruit early in 2021. Kevin Bryant, NZVA CEO • kevin.bryant@vets.org.nz

Shortages SHORTAGES for all types of veterinarians – LARGE ANIMAL, EQUINE, MIXED, COMPANION

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from 63 clinics Implications LOOMING animal welfare CRISIS

Veterinarian and farmer MENTAL AND PHYSICAL HEALTH compromised

REDUCTION in productivity in the primary sector impacting NEW ZEALAND’S ECONOMY

More exemptions essential For more information: EXEMPTIONS CURRENTLY GRANTED

New Zealand Veterinary Association ESTIMATED NEED including those granted

nzva@vets.org.nz

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In short On the move Support given

New job, new appreciation

Welfare well done

Cristin Dwyer joins the NZVA as the new Veterinary Manager (Large Animal).

After seven years as a practising veterinarian, Steve Oehley has joined Virbac as its Technical Product Manager for Companion Animal and Equine.

Virginia Williams retired from the veterinary profession in January 2021. As well as skilfully writing columns for VetScript every month, she was Veterinary Adviser (Animal Welfare) for the Ministry for Primary Industries and ran her own consultancy company. She advised on many different issues relating to animal welfare, including ensuring that institutions complied with the regulations around using animals for research, testing and teaching and acting as an ad hoc consultant for the Association for Assessment and Accreditation for Laboratory Animal Care International.

Originally from the US, Cristin arrived in New Zealand in 2005 with a Bachelor of Science in animal science and a dream of being a veterinarian. She has worked at a rural mixed practice and a larger dairy practice in the South Island and, most recently, as the Senior Practising Veterinarian at Massey University’s Farm Services Clinic, where she developed the dairy cattle curriculum for Massey’s BVSc programme with help from Farm Services Clinic staff. Cristin says she’s excited about her new role as it links directly with her passion for supporting veterinarians. Cristin can be reached at cristin.dwyer@vets.org.nz.

The role is wide ranging, with duties that include providing technical advice to veterinarians, marketing existing Virbac products and working with the team to introduce new products to the market. Steve says the role has given him a new appreciation of the work involved in everything from manufacturing a medication to delivering it to clinic doorsteps. Steve’s clinical experience runs the gamut of rural mixed practice, dairy and companion animal practice – private, club and corporate – both in New Zealand and overseas. He’s looking forward to meeting veterinarians and support staff. Steve can be contacted at steve.oehley@virbac.co.nz or 021 820 840. n

Breakroom brain-buster

Who founded the first veterinary school in Lyon, France in 1761?

The term ‘veterinary’ comes from the Latin word ‘veterinae’, meaning what?

VetScript February/March 2021

3. 4. 5.

Name one mammalian pollinator other than bats.

A newborn koala is the size of a ____ and is called a ____.

Who may be regarded as the founder of modern veterinary research?

A group of ferrets is called a _____.

Prior to that, Virginia was the chair of the National Animal Ethics Advisory Committee and a member (then later deputy chair) of the National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee from 2009–2015. She also chaired the Animal Behaviour and Welfare Consultative Committee from 2000 to 2014. Virginia has made a substantial contribution to animal welfare in New Zealand and overseas. n

According to city council registrations, what is the second most popular dog breed in New Zealand? How many species of wētā are there in New Zealand? <10, 10–50, 50–100, >100

Answers are on the facing page. Send your questions for a brainbusting quiz to the Editor at vetscript@vets.org.nz. n

IMAGERY: ISTOCKPHOTO.COM , SUPPLIED, AMANDA TRAYES

Learning boosts learning Congratulations go to Lotte Cantley – the NZVA’s CPD Academic Director – who recently completed a Postgraduate Certificate in Veterinary Education through the Royal Veterinary College, University of London. The course was offered as a distance learning opportunity through the Lifelong, Independent Veterinary Education (LIVE) Centre – a Centre for Excellence in Teaching and Learning at the college. Through this experience Lotte gained clear insights into the key principles that underpin professional education and how they can be applied practically in continuing veterinary and para-veterinary education. The qualification is a great fit for her NZVA role and supports her belief that embracing lifelong learning is critical to the future of the veterinary profession. Lotte now plans to use her new skills and knowledge, which span many areas of veterinary education, to promote both technical and non-technical CPD to the veterinary profession. Her focus will be on maintaining evidence-based professional practice and supporting the development of reflective practice (the ability to reflect on one’s actions to engage in a process of continual learning). To complete the certificate Lotte had to meet the requirements of the UK Professional Standards Framework and achieve a Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy. Congratulations, Lotte! n

DEADLINES FOR APRIL 2021 ISSUE Editorial copy 18 February Display and classified advertising 1 March Late classified advertising 20 March Contact the editor at: vetscript@vets.org.nz

Answers: 1. Claude Bourgelat, 2. Working animals or beasts of burden, 3. Lemurs, elephant shrew, honey possums (the only entirely nectarivorous mammal that isn’t a bat), 4. Jellybean, joey, 5. John McFadyean, 6. Business, 7. Border Collie, 8. >100.

VetScript

Inaugural research scholarship awarded Animal science and zoology student Breanna Jackson is the inaugural recipient of the $5,000 David Mellor Summer Research Scholarship – a prize that enables students with interests in animal welfare to pursue projects related to the topic. Breanna was awarded the scholarship at a research forum hosted by Massey University’s Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre (AWSBC) on 4 December. She will use the funds to support her research on the efficacy of pain relief following calf disbudding. Originally hailing from New Zealand’s Far North, Breanna spent her formative years in Australia, where she worked with animals at Shoalhaven Zoo and a dairy goat farm in New South Wales, as well as at veterinary clinics across the country. She also rescued, rehabilitated and rehomed animals on the lifestyle blocks where she lived, and volunteered for RSPCA Australia. It was Breanna’s dedication to continual learning and finding ways to improve the lives of animals that won her the award, says AWSBC codirector and co-manager Ngaio Beausoleil. She says Breanna was the inspiration for starting the scholarship in the first place. “We were so impressed with Breanna’s initiative in asking us about summer research, and her excellent academic record and passion for welfare, that we decided to create a scholarship for her. We plan to offer the scholarship each year.” Breanna says she’s unsure whether she’ll pursue a degree in veterinary science or a master’s, but anticipates it may be both. n (From left to right): AWSBC Co-Director Craig Johnson, student Breanna Jackson, foundation director David Mellor, Co-Director Ngaio Beausoleil.

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VetScript February/March 2021

News and views

Eco initiatives

In short

Wiping away waste In 2019 Zoetis New Zealand identified that its nylon teat wipes, used before inserting dry-cow-therapy products, were contributing to New Zealand’s waste problem. However there were limited alternatives available in the animal sector. It learned that Auckland District Health Board had been using bamboo disinfecting wipes in its hospitals, and thought they could also be used for animal applications. The wipes were home or farm compostable and marine biodegradable. Zoetis worked with the district health board to source the wipes and applied for AsureQuality approval for their use in animals. It then went one step further – cutting the number of plastic wipe containers by sourcing the wipes as refill packs. During the 2020 Teatseal campaign, this change led to a saving of 12 million nylon wipes and 50,000 plastic canisters. The compostable wipes are now being used in some clinics instead of swabs during surgical preparation, and are then being commercially composted. n

Shopping for success The NZVA has partnered with Kiwi e-commerce platform Storbie to help members launch and maintain their practice websites – and offer online shopping to their clients too.

VetScript February/March 2021

Update on the Green Team A little more than a year ago CeeJay Spiller, an anaesthetic technician at Massey Vets (formerly the Massey University Veterinary Teaching Hospital), launched the sustainability initiative Massey Vets Green Team to implement eco-friendly changes in the hospital (see the December 2019 VetScript issue). So far the team has implemented battery recycling (and switched to rechargeable batteries) and swapped out plastic dog-poop bags with compostable ones. They have also installed green bins that collect organic waste; this goes to the Palmerston North City council’s anaerobic digester, where it’s broken down into biofuel. The team just completed an energy audit to identify where the hospital is using the most energy, so they can set reduction targets. Next up they plan to conduct a waste audit, which will involve sampling rubbish bins to learn what they’re throwing out. In another initiative the Massey School of Veterinary Science will, starting this year, include sustainability in practice as part of the curriculum for veterinary science students. CeeJay believes veterinarians are wonderfully placed as links between animal health and human health, as per the One Health model. “Whether you’re an industry veterinarian who can help your company innovate or reduce waste, or a clinical veterinarian who can encourage change in your team, everyone has a role to play and every bit makes a difference,” she says. CeeJay herself is part of the newly formed Veterinary Sustainability Group. She says the group provides a platform for people to learn more about sustainability in practice, share their tips and ideas and get support to encourage sustainable change within their own spheres. Veterinarians and veterinary nurses wanting more information can contact group leader Liza Schneider at liza@holisticvets.co.nz.

The ‘website builder’ can be tailored to individual veterinary practices and offers features such as an easy-to-setup online store, the ability to upload articles, search engine optimisation and integration with PayPal and Xero.

“The reality is that not all businesses are equal when it comes to digital channels,” he says. “Our focus is on reducing barriers to help businesses use smart technology tailored to the needs of specific industries.”

Storbie Chief Executive and founder Shane Bartle says the initiative will help clinics give their customers a complete and convenient service.

Members who are interested in learning more can contact Storbie at hello@storbie.com. Remember to mention you’re an NZVA member! n

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Help needed to select future veterinarians Massey University is looking for raters to help conduct ‘multiple mini interviews’, part of veterinary students’ non-academic performance assessment. The interviews will take place on the weekend of 15–16 May 2021. Raters don’t need to be veterinarians! People from a variety of backgrounds, including veterinary technicians, veterinary nurses, receptionists, business owners, teachers and librarians are all welcome. You simply need to have good communication and active listening skills, be able to follow instructions, be open minded and inclusive, and be interested in who the veterinary school selects into the veterinary profession. Around 350 veterinary student applicants each have eight short interviews with eight different raters. The raters stay in one spot and students come to them – a bit like ‘interview speed dating’!

Volunteers can choose to attend one or two, morning or afternoon, sessions. Drinks and snacks a-plenty will be available and raters who do both the morning and afternoon sessions will be provided with lunch. If you’re interested in volunteering as a rater, visit www. surveymonkey.com/r/ 2021MMIRaterVolunteer and enter your details and availability. If you have any questions, please email Sue Gribbin at s.j.gribbin@massey.ac.nz. This is an excellent opportunity to help select the veterinarians of tomorrow, and all help is invaluable and appreciated. n

Congratulations Vetora Hamilton The clinic has passed its first BESTPRACTICE audit and become BESTPRACTICE accredited. The Hamilton clinic joins four other accredited Vetora practices. n

You’re in good company with MAS.

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Experience MAS today at mas.co.nz VetScript February/March 2021 9

News and views In short

Lord of the seals An international team of biologists has discovered a new species of extinct monk seal from the Southern Hemisphere. They say the discovery radically changes scientists’ understanding of how seal species evolved around the world. The discovery came after the researchers examined seven preserved fossil specimens found by local fossil hunters on south Taranaki beaches in New Zealand between 2009 and 2016. The new species is named Eomonachus belegaerensis, meaning ‘dawn monk seal from Belegaer’ after the sea of Belegaer, which lies west of Middle Earth in The Lord of the Rings. The seal was around 2.5 metres in length and weighed 200–250 kilograms. Scientists estimate that the seal lived in the waters around New Zealand some three million years ago. It was previously thought that all true seals originated in the North Atlantic, with some later crossing the equator to live as far south as Antarctica. E. belegaerensis has shown that many ancient seals, including the ancestors of today’s monk, elephant and Antarctic seals, actually evolved in the Southern Hemisphere. All the fossils used to make the discovery were found by members of the public.

(Clockwise from top left) Palaeontologist and Monash University PhD student James Rule with the complete skull of Eomonachus belegaerensis. An artist’s impression of E. belegaerensis. Pieces of the fossil specimens discovered. Scale illustration. The extinct E. belegaerensis is thought to have resembled the Hawaiian monk seal.

REFERENCE: Rule JP, Adams JW, Marx FG, Evans AR, Tennyson AJD, Scofield RP, Fitzgerald EMG. First monk seal from the Southern Hemisphere rewrites the evolutionary history of true seals. Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences 287(1938), 28720202318, 2020

Felix Marx, Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa’s curator of marine mammals and study collaborator, says the discovery was a triumph for citizen science. New Zealanders have only scratched the surface when it comes to fossil discoveries, he says, with many more out there waiting to be found. n

VetScript February/March 2021

ILLUSTRATIONS: JAIME BRAN FOR TE PAPA, HUGO CAFASSO

Ancient ailments Scientists in Brazil have for the first time documented a severe bone inflammation in a dinosaur.

Ulcerations reconstructed based on pathologies in the 85.2-millionyear-old titanosaur’s fibula.

Researchers discovered abnormalities in a fossilised titanosaur leg bone, and when they examined thin slices of the bone under magnification they found fossilised remains of around 70 parasitic worm-like creatures infecting the channels where blood vessels would have been. They concluded that the lesions on the bone were caused or facilitated by the parasites. The authors say this may be the earliest known occurrence of infectious bone disease associated with parasites. Exactly what the parasite was, however, is currently unclear, but it has a similar shape to the prehistoric parasite Paleoleishmania. REFERENCE: Aureliano T, Nascimento C, Fernandes MA, Ricardi-Branco F, Ghilardi AM. Blood parasites and acute osteomyelitis in a non-avian dinosaur (Sauropoda, Titanosauria) from the Upper Cretaceous Adamantina Formation, Bauru Basin, Southeast Brazil. Cretaceous Research 118, 104672, 2021

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VetScript February/March 2021

News and views Massey research update

One tool to assess them all By Sujan Sapkota

Although New Zealand’s dairy sector is generally seen as welfare friendly, there’s no industry-recognised, nationwide mechanism for assessing dairy animal welfare. That may all be about to change.

hile there are many welfare assessment protocols for housed cattle around the globe (such as Welfare Quality), they don’t fit well with New Zealand’s particular pasturebased farming conditions (Laven and Fabian, 2016). Therefore we need a quick, practical, feasible and science-based welfare assessment protocol for New Zealand’s dairy conditions. From a pool of more than 80 assessment methods – taken from six welfare assessment protocols, four studies of dairy cattle welfare and the New Zealand Dairy Cattle Code of Welfare – my research team and I identified 32 that would work for such a welfare assessment protocol.

How it works Our protocol is founded on the Five Domains Model (Mellor, 2017). It covers animal nutrition, environment, health and behaviour, with the fifth domain (mental state) measured by proxy through the other four elements.

About two hours before milking, a principal assessor starts assessing record-, resources- and managementbased measures. The assessment begins with a short questionnaire interview with the farm manager focused mainly on record- and management-based measures, and is followed by an assessment of infrastructures. Animal behavioural measures (agonistic and affiliative behaviour) are observed for 30 minutes in the paddock before milking. All other animal-based measures are then assessed during milking – at the entry to the milking parlour, inside the parlour, immediately as soon as cows exit the parlour or outside the milking parlour. A second assessor is responsible for scoring the cows’ locomotion (the lameness assessment) when they’ve been released from the parlour to the paddock. The protocol covers most of the feasible assessment measures simply and quickly. On further refinement it could also be used routinely to identify lagging welfare areas on farm and compare changes since

TABLE 1. The final proposed assessment protocol for assessing the welfare of pasture-based dairy cattle on New Zealand farms (Sapkota et al., 2020) Nutrition

Body condition score, rumen fill score, distance to water points, trough cleanliness

Health Pain relief, lameness, broken tail, coughing, skin injury, ingrown horn, bling eye, vaccination record, lameness per year, mastitis per year, cow mortality per year, replacement heifer death before calving per year

VetScript February/March 2021

Environment Cow cleanliness, shelter availability, maximum waiting time in the yard, noise level, mixing of cows, handling aids, handling during milking, farthest paddock distance, track condition, head position, handling on the track, yard space per cow, backing gate speed

Behaviour

Agonistic behaviour, positive behaviour (affiliative), fear behaviour

IMAGERY: ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

suggested interventions. It could also be included in training programmes to encourage farmers to selfassess and evaluate their farms.

How we got there To arrive at the final 32 assessment methods, we began by pre-screening all the assessment measures to ensure that: Â they were relevant to pasture-based dairy farming systems Â they had practical application in those systems Â assessments could be completed in one day by two people in a single milking or one person in two milkings. We then tested the screened measures on two dairy farms (one with a rotary parlour and the other with a herringbone parlour) to assess their feasibility, time to complete and ease of scoring. The feasibility test checked that we could be fairly sure the assessment tool would work in New Zealand conditions and it would be practical to implement in real-life scenarios. We modified some measures so that they met our criteria. For example, we decided only to record welfare-compromised animals (with locomotion scores ≥2, rumen fill scores ≤2 and body condition scores ≤3) to make assessments simple and quick. Similarly, instead of assessing a cow’s body condition score in the parlour in a herringbone system, we measured it as the cow exited the parlour so that we could view all cows (half are obstructed from view inside a herringbone parlour). All the measures were distributed among the four relevant functional domains of the Five Domains Model to structure our welfare assessment protocol (see Table 1). Although an animal’s mental state (the fifth domain) can’t be directly measured, the protocol uses the first four domains as evidence of compromise or enhancement to predict the overall welfare status.

However its feasibility should be tested on more farms, because every farm is unique. We have since trialled the protocol on 23 other dairy farms (16 in Waikato and seven in Manawatū) and the initial results look positive. A few further adjustments may be required to make the protocol simpler and more practicable and feasible. Its repeatability and reliability (inter- and intra-observer) also need to be assessed. We’re currently developing a way to categorise farms as green, yellow or red status (for good, marginal or poor welfare) based on the outcomes of their assessments. This requires us to set thresholds for each category, such as the percentage of cows who have low body condition scores.

Although an animal’s mental state (the fifth domain) can’t be directly measured, the protocol uses the first four domains as evidence of compromise or enhancement to predict the overall welfare status.

We believe we’ve succeeded in creating a protocol with good coverage of four of the five domains, and one that will identify key areas of welfare concern on farm. It will be useful in benchmarking and providing transparency on the welfare of dairy cows on New Zealand farms. It may be possible in future to include measures specific to cows’ mental states, but we feel the other measures provide a sufficient proxy in the meantime. Sujan Sapkota is a PhD student in Massey University’s School of Veterinary Science. He’s part of a team with Richard Laven, Kristina Müller and Nikki Kells working to develop an efficient welfare assessment protocol for pasture-based dairy cows.

REFERENCES:

Of the 32 assessment measures included in the final protocol, 13 are animal based, nine relate to infrastructure/resources, two are management based, two are associated with stockmanship measures and six are record-based measures.

Where to now The protocol is the outcome of three feasibility trials on two pasture-based dairy farms in Manawatū.

Laven R, Fabian J. Applying animal-based welfare assessments on New Zealand dairy farms: Feasibility and a comparison with United Kingdom data. New Zealand Veterinary Journal 64(4), 212–7, 2016 Mellor DJ. Operational details of the Five Domains Model and its key applications to the assessment and management of animal welfare. Animals 7(8), 60, 2017 Sapkota S, Laven R, Müller K, Kells N. Animal welfare assessment: Can we develop a practical, time-limited assessment protocol for pasture-based dairy cows in New Zealand? Animals 10, 1918, 2020

VetScript February/March 2021

News and views Animal welfare update

Whips, welfare and fanfare By Virginia Williams

Studies worldwide suggest there’s still much to be done to protect animals’ health and welfare, while elsewhere awards are being won and fascinating research results are being revealed.

At the time of writing, New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (NZTR) had recently launched a consultation process looking at:

Thicker skin no protection from the sting of the whip

Â a general proposition that the use of the whip be further restricted with effect from mid to late 2021

Anatomical research published at the end of 2020 compared postmortem gluteal skin samples of horses with those of humans (Tong et al., 2020). The results revealed no significant difference between humans and horses in either the concentration of nerve endings in the epidermis or the thickness of this layer. And while the collagenous dermis of horse skin – thicker than that of human dermis – may afford some resilience against mechanical trauma, it has no pain-detecting nerve endings and is not considered protective from external cutaneous pain. The authors concluded that, although horse skin is thicker overall than human skin, the part of the skin that is thicker does not insulate horses from the pain that is generated during a whip strike, and that humans and horses have the equivalent basic anatomic structures to detect pain in the skin.

Â a proposition that in three to five years whip use be again restricted to a point where it can only be carried for the purposes of ‘safety and control’.

VetScript February/March 2021

Martin Burns, NZTR General Manager – Welfare and Sustainability, has said that there are several points to consider when making further changes to whip design and use. These include the number of times a whip may be used, the technique and the penalties. He said NZTR is seeking the views of racing participants and other interested parties and is keeping a close watch on possible changes in Australia. REFERENCE: Tong L, Stewart M, Johnson I, Appleyard R, Wilson B, James O, Johnson C, McGreevy P. A Comparative neuro-histological assessment of gluteal skin thickness and cutaneous nociceptor distribution in horses and humans. Animals 10(11), 2094, 2020

Women in slaughter industry have more positive animal welfare attitudes A Bristol Veterinary School study examined the attitudes of slaughter industry workers to animal welfare – both in general and in their work. More than 200 personnel responded to a questionnaire and, while most respondents had positive attitudes to animal welfare, those who were female, worked routinely with animals, had been in the industry for a long period and had attended training courses had significantly more positive attitudes towards both animals and working in the industry. Conversely, those working with birds and in enforcement and stockperson roles had more negative responses. REFERENCE: Wigham EE, Grist A, Mullan S, Wotton S, Butterworth A. Gender and job characteristics of slaughter industry personnel influence their attitudes to welfare. Animal Welfare 29, 313–22, 2020

Feedlot cattle welfare compromised An Australian study has looked at risks to the welfare of beef cattle in feedlots, as an increasing number are held in such facilities (Salvin et al., 2020). According to the study, beef cattle in feedlots are unable to respond effectively to environmental extremes, are unable to express their full range of natural behaviours such as grazing, and are exposed to unsuitable temperaments. In addition, poor management can result in:

Equine welfare advocate awarded top welfare honour The winners of the 2020 Global Animal Welfare Awards, sponsored by the World Veterinary Association and Ceva Animal Health, were announced at the end of October 2020. Closest to home was The University of Sydney’s Professor Paul McGreevy, who works closely with RSPCA Australia and has long advocated a ban on whips in Australian horse racing. He was also awarded the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons’ Impact Award in 2019 for showing how the training of veterinary surgeons can lead to improvements in animal welfare internationally. Other award winners included the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, Edinburgh, which won the Veterinary School of the Year Award. The award recognised its investment in teaching and training in animal welfare at undergraduate and postgraduate levels through its Jeanne Marchig International Centre for Animal Welfare Education.

Virginia Williams is a retired veterinarian and consultant with a wide range of experience in animal welfare.

Â a lack of stockperson skills when identifying morbidities Â a lack of comfortable surfaces for cattle to lie on Â poor stock-handling methods and yard design Â poor identification and management of pregnant cows Â a mixing of unfamiliar cattle. The authors suggest a need for a better understanding of cattle temperament types and coping styles – that allow the animals to adapt best to the feedlot environment with minimal adverse physical and psychological consequences – to maximise cattle welfare in feedlot enterprises. REFERENCE: Salvin HE, Lees AM, Cafe LM, Colditz IG, Lee C. Welfare of beef cattle in Australian feedlots: a review of the risks and measures. Animal Production Science 60(13), 1569–90, 2020

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News and views NZVJ preview

Prevelent pathogens and new faces

By combining the gross and histological scoring of livers in a Bayesian latent class analysis, Emma Cuttance and colleagues investigated whether scoring gross liver pathology could be used to estimate the prevalence of facial eczema in dairy cows at slaughter. This was based on the fact that sporidesmin, the toxin that causes facial eczema, concentrates in the bile, which leads to obliteration of bile ducts and results in obstructive cholangiohepatopathy and ultimately photosensitisation due to an accumulation of chlorophyll breakdown products normally excreted in the bile. Grossly the liver becomes discoloured, thickened and rounded.

Sarah Fowler, NZVJ Editor in Chief, previews the March issue. It’s one for the production animal veterinarians among us.

Emma and colleagues reported that the sensitivity and specificity of gross liver scoring for detecting liver damage were 0.84 and 0.93 respectively. They suggested that, after appropriate calibration, such scoring could be used to monitor the impacts of facial eczema at country and regional levels.

he upcoming issue features articles on bovine viral diarrhoea in dairy cattle, facial eczema in sheep and dairy cattle, and leptospirosis in beef cattle, sheep and deer. There are also case reports of mange in a herd of alpacas, photosensitisation due to Lotus pedunculatus in lamb flocks, and the successful treatment of an oral hamartoma in a calf. Lastly, there is a report on a survey of graduates of Massey University’s BVetTech degree regarding their experiences and opinions of their education and subsequent employment.

Volume 60 | Issue 1 | January 2021 | ISSN 0048–0169

In this issue » Review: Wildlife diseases: an update and future challenges » Prevalence and risk factors for subclinical hypocalcaemia in dairy cows » Effect of Ca treatment after calving in dairy cows » Unexpected nematode parasites in calves » Use of a vaccine for Yersinia pseudotuberculosis in sheep » Oxygen supplementation in dogs » Ophthalmic complications after dental surgery in cats

Six Leptospira spp. serovars have been isolated from various domestic and wildlife species in New Zealand. Historically, serovars Hardjo and Pomona were the most commonly reported causes of leptospirosis in humans. However, recent evidence suggests serovars Ballum and Tarrasovi are increasing in prevalence. Following their study of the seroprevalence of Hardjo and Pomona in beef cattle, sheep and deer in New Zealand (published in the NZVJ in 2018), Peter Wilson and colleagues report on the seroprevalence of serovars Ballum, Tarassovi and Copenhageni in the same livestock species. Their results show that seropositivity to these serovars is common in beef cattle, sheep and deer in New Zealand and most, if not all, farms have one or more livestock species seropositive for at least one Leptospira serovar.

After four years at the helm, Boyd Jones stepped down as Chair of the NZVJ Editorial Board at the end of 2020. Boyd adeptly led the editorial board in its tasks of guiding the journal’s development and supporting the editors, particularly with difficult decisions. He was a steadfast advocate of and cheerleader for the journal. Boyd is remaining on the board during 2021 to continue sharing his expertise in companion animal medicine, but has indicated that after more than 12 years on the board he will retire at the end of this year. In his place, Ngaio Beausoleil has agreed to take on the chairship of the editorial board. Ngaio is an Associate Professor of Applied Ethology and Animal Welfare Science and Co-Director of the Animal Welfare Science and Bioethics Centre in the School of Veterinary Science at Massey University. Ngaio’s research uses behavioural and physiological techniques to assess the welfare of both domestic and wild animal species, and she has a particular interest in the ethical, cultural and welfare implications of wildlife management. Ngaio says she is excited about the new opportunity, and that the NZVJ “provides a unique vehicle for New Zealand’s veterinary, animal and wildlife scientists to showcase their research to the world”.

Members of the NZVA can access any articles published in the NZVJ by logging in to SciQuest(www.sciquest.org.nz). More information about the NZVJ can be found at www.vetjournal.org.nz. You can contact the editors at nzvj@vets.org.nz.

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News and views Team spirit

The team approach VCNZ’s Seton Butler asks, if a veterinarian’s time is best spent diagnosing, authorising and ‘surgicating’, what can they delegate?

ven before there was a shortage of veterinarians, there has been a significant opportunity to harness the skills of competent veterinary staff such as veterinary nurses and veterinary technicians. But now it is more important than ever. From May 2021 competent non-veterinarians will legally be able to perform a number of surgical procedures, assuming that they are experienced with, or have received training in, the correct use of the method being applied and are “able to recognise early signs of significant distress, injury, or illhealth so that the person can take prompt remedial action or seek advice”. The procedures that the law will allow non-veterinarians to perform without the need to give pain relief to the animal will include supernumerary teat removals (age and species specific), freeze branding, rectal examinations of animals (including equids for non-surgical reproductive procedures only), pregnancy scanning, treating uterine and vaginal prolapses in sheep, urinary catheterisation and cystocentesis. If non-veterinarians are to undertake procedures that require them to administer registered veterinary medicines (RVMs) for pain relief, the Code of Professional Conduct for Veterinarians expects veterinarians to be confident that they are not only competent to administer the RVM but also competent to carry out the procedures, identify adverse events and manage emergencies (ie, the “agreed course of action can proceed as planned”). These procedures may include disbudding and dehorning, castrating, supernumerary teat removals (age and species specific), deer velveting, vaginal prolapse replacements in cattle, administering epidurals (except in equids) and nonsurgical tissue sampling for laboratory analysis. Competent staff members may also perform, and have already been performing, certain procedures with veterinarians providing support and oversight, on the premises or in the room. These procedures include anaesthesia induction and monitoring, positioning a patient and taking radiographs, dentistry scaling and polishing (excluding sub-gingival

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procedures and extractions), and some equine dentistry procedures. Vaccination programmes designed by authorising veterinarians may be performed by trained staff. Suitably trained staff will also be able to triage and administer first aid for emergencies, obtaining veterinary advice where needed. This may include administering pain relief as per the previous point on RVMs. An appropriately trained individual can also be a first attender to, and assist with, an uncomplicated calving and administering an epidural in advance of a veterinarian arriving. Veterinarians will need to turn their minds to training, assessing competence, accountability and the consenting process when delegating these roles. For starters, they could check that the individuals to whom they wish to delegate tasks have qualifications that establish levels of competence. They’ll also need to check that those individuals have experience with, or have received training in, the correct use of the relevant methods. Veterinary clinic employment agreements should already have foundations of accountability and trustworthiness, but this can be greatly enhanced if the veterinary nurses, veterinary technicians or other allied veterinary professionals are overseen by an independent body such as the Allied Veterinary Professional Regulatory Council of New Zealand.

Veterinarians will need to turn their minds to training, assessing competence, accountability and the consenting process when delegating these roles. Then there is the consent component – what would an owner reasonably expect of a veterinarian when giving their consent? It may be helpful to include a statement in the client consent form such as, “Our trained and qualified veterinary team, which includes veterinary technicians and veterinary nurses, will be performing the procedure on your pet today”. Ultimately, the responsibility for an event that has complications will sit with the veterinarian. I suspect that if a case were put before the Complaints Assessment Committee, it would consider the veterinarian’s assessment of the staff member’s qualifications and experience, the owner’s consent, the training the non-veterinarian received from the clinic, the complexity of the specific case, the support provided and the availability of the veterinarian if an adverse event were to occur. Seton Butler • seton@vetcouncil.org.nz

News and views Opinion

The phenotypic vice By Chris Welland

Patients struggling with breed-associated health issues impacts not only on the welfare of the animal but also on the family as a whole.

recently saw a case of a young French Bulldog presenting with severe thoracolumbar back pain. An X-ray revealed a marked spinal deformity.

French Bulldogs are prone to disorders that can lead to both pain (hemivertebrae) and distress (brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome – BOAS). Yet owners love them for their temperament and personality. I feel for owners, who are often unaware of breed health problems, or are torn between wanting particular personality traits but not the physical problems that come along with them. As the veterinary representative on the Animal Ethics Committee in Nelson, I regularly review studies involving animals. That got me thinking about the different ethical standards we seem to apply to animals in research and the animals who are part of our families. The definition of ‘manipulation’ under the Animal Welfare Act 1999 includes the breeding or production of an animal using any breeding technique (including genetic modification) that may result in the birth or production of an animal who is at greater risk of pain or distress during their life. Recent changes have increased the range of animals and activities that require approval and oversight by animal ethics committees (for research, testing and teaching). From an ethical standpoint, ‘manipulation’ seems to apply as much to companion animal breeding as it does to animal research, even if this is not the legal use of the word. Further, the ‘care of animals’ under the Animal Welfare Act requires owners of animals, and persons in charge of animals, to take all reasonable steps to ensure that the physical, health and behavioural needs of the animals are met in accordance with both (i) good practice and (ii) scientific knowledge.

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I believe that ‘scientific knowledge’ encompasses the broad range of genetic and diagnostic tests that identify breed-related disorders. Breeders arguing that they were not aware of a problem (and subsequently not testing for it) cannot be an excuse for welfare compromise. Dogs New Zealand (Dogs NZ) has attempted to address breed health issues through having an Accredited Breeders Scheme (ABS) but, unfortunately, the system is inadequate in protecting the dogs and the public who purchase them. Registered breeders who are not ABS members are not compelled to meet the requirements of the

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scheme. There are special conditions for registration in certain breeds but these are not as thorough as those of the ABS. For example, hemivertebrae testing is among the mandatory tests required for French Bulldogs to meet the ABS requirements. Up until recently BOAS has not been under optional tests, relegated instead to ‘other diseases to be aware of’. Fortunately Dogs NZ has announced it will operate the Kennel Club/University of Cambridge Respiratory Function Grading Scheme. The grading scheme will be a mandatory test for the three breeds (Bulldogs, French Bulldogs and Pugs) under the ABS. However, there are currently no accredited breeders of French Bulldogs listed on the Dogs NZ website. Of course, some registered breeders may be voluntarily testing their dogs. There is an ethical obligation for all dog breeders, whether they are registered with Dogs NZ or not, to understand their responsibilities. In fact, the majority of breeders fall outside Dogs NZ’s mandate. Deliberately breeding a dog for phenotypic appearance, without exercising due diligence in reducing the risk of the offspring suffering distress or pain, is at the very least ethically indefensible. We as a country can do more to protect companion animals from breed-related phenotypic issues. My suggestions are:

The ABS needs revision. The tests for breed disorders that can cause pain or distress, where available, should all be mandatory.

All Dogs NZ dog breeders should have to meet the requirements of the ABS in relation to disorders that could cause pain or distress.

Animal ethics committees could outsource health testing to licensed veterinarians to make sure there are no conflicts of interest.

The National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (NAWAC) with the Ministry for Primary Industries should look to regulate dog breeding, including independent breeders, to make sure all breeders adhere to the intentions of the Animal Welfare Act.

Information on corrective surgeries on entire purebred animals should be lodged on a

Breeders arguing that they were not aware of a problem (and subsequently not testing for it) cannot be an excuse for welfare compromise.

central database. This should be undertaken to avoid breeders presenting animals for testing that have, unknowingly, previously undergone corrective procedures such as soft palate surgery for heritable disorders.

An overseas French Bulldog site mentioned obtaining a breeder’s warranty. A breeder’s warranty is essentially a guarantee that the puppy will not have health issues that the breeder could have prevented.

There are excellent breeders in New Zealand – conscientious, caring and wanting to produce healthy, socialised puppies. But in lieu of not having a thorough, compulsory scheme, the present system relies too heavily on breeder altruism and owner due diligence. As a profession we are required to be an advocate for animal welfare and we are ethically obligated to be more proactive in this area. The veterinary profession has helped to put the tail back on the dog. In relation to welfare advoacy, I think we can assist by being the ‘tail wagging Dogs NZ’. The excellent work that Becky Murphy has already undertaken with the organisation needs our full backing. Dogs NZ is endeavouring to represent the best in breeding principles from an animal welfare perspective. It should become our first recommended contact when people enquire about getting a purebred dog. There is an opportunity to truly and collaboratively work together for the betterment of companion animal health. Chris Welland is a veterinarian at Halifax Veterinary Centre in Nelson.

IN THE NEXT ISSUE... Dogs NZ and NAWAC respond.

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featured

A small, independent practice learns itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s greater than the sum of itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s parts.

What will veterinary businesses look like in 2021 and beyond?

A precious pooch struggles for breath. A closer inspection reveals a large bullous lesion.

Work life Animal Medical Centre

Cover story The next business evolution

Case study Up in the air

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Feature Work life

There’s more than one way to spay a cat. Veterinarians across the country are using their skills in all sorts of ways. In this new section, we explore the many ways in which veterinarians work. From in practice to on pasture, from inside offices to out the back of a van –veterinary life looks different to everyone.

Greater than the sum of its parts

Tucked away behind a busy street in the Wellington suburb of Johnsonville, sits a veterinary practice with deep community roots. For co-owner Antoinette Benfell it’s presented opportunities to adapt, while keeping the things that make the practice a favourite in the neighbourhood. By Mirjam Guesgen

VetScript February/March 2021

hat was your journey to becoming a practice owner? Mike, my husband, and I never set out to buy a practice together. We met at Massey University – he was studying veterinary science and I was studying business. He was about three years into practising and the opportunity arose to buy Animal Medical Centre. We felt it wasn’t the kind of thing that would pop up every day; so we took the plunge a few weeks before our first child was born. We figured that Mike would take care

of the veterinary side and I’d take care of the business. That way we could both pursue what we were good at.

And is it that way in reality? It is! Sometimes I’m surprised at how well it works! Mike can keep his head in that animal space. I know a few practices where veterinarians do everything themselves, and I think that must be massively challenging to give your all in both aspects. Although we work in the same building, we have separate roles.

IMAGERY: JO MOORE

Clockwise from top left: (left to right) veterinary nurse Kristina Churchill, practice co-owner and manager Antoinette Benfell, head veterinary nurse Sarah Barker, head veterinarian and practice co-owner Mike Benfell and veterinary nurse Sam Clark; Coco â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;assistsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Antoinette with the business side of things; Kristina and Mike prepare a patient for sugery.

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Feature Work life

There’s a lot of respect for each other there. We’re quite yin and yang – he’s the introvert, I’m the extrovert – so we balance each other.

How was it in the beginning when you essentially had two babies (your new practice and your first child) at the same time? I think the first six months were probably the honeymoon period. It was really easy and we thought, “This is great!”. But it starts to become challenging when sleep deprivation from taking care of young kids starts to kick in and you have a couple of quiet business months. It was hard to not be stressed! Generally though, my role fits easily with family life. Having that balance and putting family first is really important to us. It’s one of the reasons we bought the practice in the first place. When things have been really tough, we’ve looked at the real nuts and bolts of what the future would look like if, say, I went back into a corporate job and Mike worked for another practice, and it’s a real reality check. I love that the future is in our hands – we’re not waiting for someone else to give us permission to see the kids, get a pay rise or take a holiday.

Key statistics Practice: Animal Medical Centre Practice location: Johnsonville, Wellington Owners: Antoinette and Mike Benfell Owners since: 2005 Practice manager: Antoinette Veterinarians: One full-time, one locum Veterinary nurses: Two, one student Serves: Johnsonville, Newlands and Churton Park, with some clients coming from Miramar, Stokes Valley and Paraparaumu.

What were your plans for the practice when you took it over, compared to now? What we saw was a clinic that was well loved in the community. It had a real family feel about it. That’s what we wanted to replicate and that’s what

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Animal Medical Centre has seen some of their clients through multiple pets. “They get that continuity of care when they come back to us,” says practice co-owner Antoinette.

we’ve achieved. A lot of our clients have been with us since we started. We’ve seen them through, in some cases, many pets. When someone comes in with a new puppy after having had to say goodbye to a pet, we feel immense gratitude for them. They must really value our service if they can walk back in the door with sad memories attached. Mike has thrived in his role as head veterinarian and continues to grow his skills. He’s currently studying towards his Master of Veterinary Medicine and is considering a double major in medicine and surgery. We don’t have plans to make the place huge but, in saying that, we have taken on two new veterinary nurses so, in the future, who knows?

What was your experience, coming from a business background, in taking on a veterinary business? I had no experience of running a veterinary business before we bought the clinic. I was very young and very naïve. It was a very steep learning curve, but I liked that I came into it with fresh eyes. I think we grabbed a lot of opportunities because I knew they worked in other business settings. I just adapted them to make them work here. The advantage of being independent is that you can see an opportunity and change really quickly. For example, we offer a pet taxi service, where

I pick up clients and patients from their homes and drop them off again afterwards. It started with one of our clients ringing to say she couldn’t make her appointment because her driver wasn’t available. I offered to pick her up and it grew from there. With many of our clients being less than five minutes’ drive away, it’s really not much time out of my day. It seemed a silly thing not to do. The same goes for our online shop. We never thought of it as a way to take on the ‘Amazons’ of the pet world – those that are warehouses in the middle of nowhere with no overheads. We started our online shop to enrich the service we provide to our clients. It’s amazing for client loyalty. A lot of these ideas come about just from talking to people. We spend a lot of time at reception or on the phone talking to clients.

People drop little things into conversations that you can work from. But it takes time and building relationships with people. You need to really hear what people are saying and it’s never time wasted. My advice for anyone considering diversifying their business is just do it. If the pet taxi service hadn’t worked, it wouldn’t have cost us anything. It was just an opportunity we could explore.

What’s a typical day at the clinic like? We all work well together as a team, with each of us working to our strengths. We’re really lucky to have the team we do – well qualified and with varying backgrounds. Everyone brings a different set of knowledge and skills. Our days are really varied. We are usually fully booked with consultations and two to three surgeries

a day. The routine cases keep us pretty busy but Mike is kept on his toes with a range of complex cases and the odd emergency. We also do a fair number of housecalls too, which our clients really appreciate.

What events does the practice run? Last year proved challenging, so we didn’t run as many events as we would have liked. This year we’re looking forward to getting out in the community again. We are a regular feature in the Johnsonville Christmas parade. A client’s child said that he really looks forward to it because we gave out the most lollies! We also get out and about supporting local schools and groups where we can. It’s nice to be able to give back to the community that supports us so well.

What do you see as the future of veterinary practices? When clinics started being bought out by corporates, that was a really scary place to be. We were really worried about our future. We thought that they had so much to offer that we couldn’t, but we quickly began to see that there’s an incredibly strong place for independent practices. We have a lot of clients who don’t like the corporate model. They like that they can come here and the same staff will take the time to chat with them. People are really perceptive. I’m really excited for the future because we’ve realised there’s a strong place for us in the market. Now we ask, “What can we do next to add another string to our bow?” As to what that is exactly, I’m not sure at this stage. I do wonder how far we’ll go down the technology path.

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Cover story Down to business

Cover story

The next business evolution

The year thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been was one of upheaval, struggle and watertreading for many veterinary practices. We asked five veterinary business leaders for their views on what lies ahead â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and how to prepare for it.

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IMAGERY: ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

eidi Ward-McGrath has just experienced what she describes as “a stonking year”. Now the Vetcare founder and veterinary director is fizzing with ideas for the future. “I’m always looking for a challenge, because that’s where opportunity lies.” She’s not the only one. Leaders in veterinary businesses throughout Australasia are thinking of ways to keep their businesses fresh, relevant and flourishing in 2021 and beyond. They may have different approaches to preparing for the future, but they all agree that a bit of thoughtful planning goes a long way.

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Cover story Down to business

make time to create H

eidi Ward-McGrath, who was dubbed Young Entrepreneur of the Year by Ernst & Young in 2003, has a relentless drive to innovate and raise professional standards, despite the stresses imposed by COVID-19. She comments that having a defined strategy and communicating well are crucial to success. “You have to know your destination,” she says. You also need to show your team your vision, what you expect from them and measure the results because, as she points out, what gets measured gets done. Diversification has been a key part of Heidi’s success since she established her first business – a beachside community clinic offering house calls – almost two decades ago. Her later ventures included a puppy preschool – “a business bonding exercise” – dog grooming, dermatitis treatments and an extensive range of natural animal products, such as Pet Putty, to treat and soothe the skin. Heidi wishes she had more hours in the day to explore creative opportunities, whether they be developing new products like her Doggy Daily superfood powder or inventing orthopaedic implants and hydrotherapy tanks that help with the rehabilitation of hips and knees. “Innovation keeps me engaged,” she says. While Heidi acknowledges that many veterinarians are “busy being busy”, she says staying in a comfort zone has inherent risks if the bubble bursts and an income stream disappears. She says that being aware of patients’ and clients’ changing needs ensures that you’re more likely to continue in business than if you just “put the shutters down and hope for the best”. She sees every client who walks through the door as an opportunity to meet a new person and to learn

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about (and maybe look at solving!) a new pet problem. Her advice is to deal with problems that people find hard to solve. “I like doing things that everybody else doesn’t want to do.” Collaborating with like-minded entrepreneurs outside the sector also helps fuel Heidi’s creative mind. For example, her partnership with fashion designer Annah Stretton in Olive’s Kitchen – the company behind Doggy Daily – has involved learning from someone she considers an incredibly talented entrepreneur, who is always ahead of the trend as a dealmaker, who is a good communicator and an accountant. “In everything she does she has her eyes on cost, and that’s an important lesson for veterinarians,” says Heidi. “She’s quick to pull the plug when it becomes obvious that values don’t align or a new venture isn’t going to be worth her time.” Looking ahead, Heidi believes resilience is one of the biggest challenges for veterinary practices, and the industry needs to invest in leadership and resilience training. Another option is to tap in to the experience of industry veterans who’ve weathered the storm of financial stresses and relationship problems in the past few decades. “Resilience for me is very much a process of adapting well in the face of adversity. It doesn’t matter if it’s trauma or tragedy or a significant source of stress, I choose on a daily basis to be resilient – it’s a choice.”

IMAGERY: SUPPLIED

become techsavvy O

ne thing is certain according to Pet Doctors group co-founder Steve Merchant: technology will have a big impact on veterinary practices. As an early adopter he’s excited about the opportunities, but warns that disruption from outside the market is also likely. “We can be sure that technology will evolve, but we can’t be sure how it will evolve. We just need to be nimble,” he says, adding that “practices need to decide where they sit on the scale, whether they’re early adopters or fast followers”. Not adopting isn’t an option for businesses that want to remain in the market, he says. At the end of the day practices have to try to make everything count towards their future viability. Interestingly, Steve says the technology deployed during COVID-19, which forced people online, wasn’t new. Instead, the pandemic led people to explore ways to leverage existing technologies. For example telemedicine gave veterinarians an opportunity to charge for something they’d previously given away. Steve seized the opportunity of the lockdown to accelerate the launch of a virtual veterinary nurse he developed in partnership with artificial intelligence company Ambit. Designed as a first point of contact for client enquiries, and costing 20–30 cents an hour, the chatbot was a logical solution to what were repetitive administrative tasks and allowed veterinary nurses and veterinarians to concentrate on more high-value conversations. Steve says that while the technology is still in its infancy, it has boundless possibilities – from being used to educate clients to giving nutritional advice and offering financial services such as insurance. Oh, and he insists it won’t replace jobs.

Steve believes the demands and stresses of 2020 mean veterinarians may “not be in the head space” to be innovative right now. Instead, they should focus on looking after team wellbeing – for example by delegating some tasks to the virtual veterinary nurse. Strong teams may be the hinge point for the profession’s future sustainability and resilience. Steve comments that connecting and collaborating with other veterinarians, and not trying to do everything on your own, is better than 400 separate small businesses chasing their tails. “There’s a sweet spot in the middle, where technology can assist in staff wellbeing, efficiencies, practice profitability and what clients are actually after.”

“There’s a sweet spot in the middle, where technology can assist in staff wellbeing, efficiencies, practice profitability and what clients are actually after.”

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Cover story Down to business

Foster diversity of people and ideas H

aving probably walked into more than 500 veterinary practices in Australasia, veterinary physician and entrepreneur Glen Richards says he can feel straight away “whether there’s mojo there”. He can tell whether clients and staff are engaged and happy, and agrees with Steve that investing in a veterinary team is an investment in a veterinary business. Glen, who founded the nationwide group of Greencross Vets practices, has assembled a diverse team for his latest venture. He’s Chair of the human healthcare group Healthia – a network of multidisciplinary clinics across Australia that includes physiotherapists, podiatrists, optometrists, occupational therapists and psychologists. The former Shark Tank judge says the number one requirement for anyone in a business is recognising that you don’t know everything

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– and that a diverse team working in an office environment that’s open to new ideas helps to “robustly debate the best way forward to stay relevant”. He adds that validating and resetting a business model every 90 days is another way to stay fresh and innovative. Looking at the veterinary industry from an employment viewpoint, Glen says the entrepreneur’s role is to create a workplace that, through providing education, facilities and equipment, enables people to be their best. Bigger teams also allow flexibility in rostering to meet the demands of pet owners wanting extended hours. “Clinicians want to deliver high-quality medical and surgical services, and that means having access to good equipment and good facilities. As time goes on, some of that will be found in larger premises with larger teams.” It’s perhaps no surprise then that Glen advocates, and founded a business based on, a corporate model. While other veterinary business owners would disagree, Glen sees the trouble with small business ownership as that it’s “damn hard when you’re one clinic to get scale”. That said, others like Steve Merchant say the advantage or power of independent clinics is the ability to be true to yourself and your values. Glen has challenged the veterinary industry to use its scale – whether through corporatisation or collaboration – to create a collective model that supports a smoother transition from university to the workplace. He sees that transition as the starting point for fostering strong teams. To be successful, he says, veterinarians need to stay on the front foot and be willing to change to avoid being left behind. Most importantly, they need to have authentic conversations with employees and pet owners “to make sure they evolve their workplaces and their practices around what the market wants and not what they think the market wants.”

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Say no to stale W

hile COVID-19 has introduced a lot of uncertainty, Cornwall Strategic management consultant Steve McCrone says businesses have to accept that times are always uncertain. “You’re either in a state of flux or you’re potentially going to be in one next week.” Steve advocates a flexible or ‘adaptive approach’ – always understanding your core business but experimenting around the edges. He says a business that accepts uncertainty and goes with it is better off than a business that shifts, or is forced to shift, its core value proposition. He says one way to do this is to look at ways to create value within the business, which may not necessarily involve purely veterinary services (a concept the diverse-minded Heidi likely agrees with!). “The idea is to try multiple small experiments to see where you can add value; as you start to see the co-creation of value you lean into it.” For example, he says, farmers in a rural network might have other animal management needs or require services for pets. Steve cautions that small veterinary businesses can be too one-dimensional and therefore vulnerable to the interests of large network businesses. He advises owners to talk to people in their networks to identify and explore opportunities. “It’s through that constant exploration that you get resilience, and that doesn’t mean surviving unchanged. Resilience means you’re able to survive with your identity intact.” Options include forming partnerships with other players to expand a geographic network, or introducing specific product lines. “You’re not changing your core value proposition; you’re insulating yourself against the likelihood of change,” says Steve. He cautions that, while harnessing a diverse range of ideas is essential, it can be uncomfortable at times. “You have to go out and find people who’ll challenge your perspective, challenge the assumptions you’re making and challenge your world view.” Steve’s key advice for 2021 and beyond is, “Don’t go back”. “Stale and one-dimensional businesses won’t cut it. Keep up the momentum, keep up the exploration, keep up the kind of vibrancy we’ve seen in the past few months. It hasn’t been fun at times, but successful businesses will be the ones that can harness uncertainty as a creative force.” Owen Poland is a freelance business journalist and broadcaster, and the proud owner of two 11-year-old torties, Pickle and Poppy.

VetScript February/March 2021

News and views Feature In short easy Breathe

C UP IN THE AIR

ase presentation

The case of Prada the Pomeranian demonstrates that spontaneous pneumothorax should be considered in situations of acute respiratory distress â&#x20AC;&#x201C; even in small dogs and cats. By Richard Jerram

VetScript February/March 2021

Prada, a fiveyear-old desexed female Pomeranian dog, presented to one of our emergency centres for an evaluation of acute respiratory distress. The dog had been for a walk and had seemed a little lethargic. Two hours later the owners noticed her having trouble breathing. An initial examination revealed respiratory distress, and oxygen therapy was immediately instituted. The dog was transferred to the specialist services at Veterinary Specialists Auckland (VSA), where an examination revealed she was significantly more

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Figures 1 and 2: Orthogonal preoperative radiographs, demonstrating the pneumothorax and the bullous lesion in the right lung.

comfortable but with a mild increase in respiratory effort. On thoracic auscultation, there were muffled heart sounds and pulmonary sounds were only evident dorsally. The dog was lightly sedated and orthogonalview thoracic radiographs were taken. These revealed a pneumothorax, with a suspected bullous lesion measuring 3 x 4 centimetres in the right middle lung lobe. A diagnosis of spontaneous pneumothorax due to leakage from the pulmonary bulla was made. As the dogâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s clinical condition was stable, it was suspected that the leakage site had sealed. The dog was maintained in an oxygen cage and monitored pending discussions with the owner. Surgical treatment with thoracotomy and lung lobectomy was recommended.

Treatment The following day the dog was placed under general anaesthesia and a right lateral thoracotomy approach to the right hemi-thorax was performed. A large bullous

lesion was noted in the right middle lung lobe. The affected lung lobe was exteriorised and the lung lobectomy was performed using a surgical stapling device. A thoracostomy tube was placed for postoperative thoracic drainage. Prior to the thoracic wall closure, the thorax was filled with warmed sterile saline solution to confirm no further pulmonary air leakage. The dog recovered well from anaesthesia and was treated with a continuous-rate infusion of

fentanyl for pain relief and intranasal oxygen therapy. Within 48 hours she was comfortable with no further thoracic drainage necessary. The thoracostomy tube was removed and the dog was discharged with instructions for three weeks of limited activity. A follow-up evaluation was performed at 14 days and three months after surgery. The owners reported normal behaviour and no respiratory problems. Repeat thoracic radiographs were declined and the dog was discharged from our care.

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Feature Breathe easy

Figure 3: Intra-operative photograph of the exteriorised right middle lung lobe, demonstrating the large bullous lesion.

Figure 4: Postoperative radiographs confirming the placement of the thoracostomy tube.

Discussion Spontaneous pneumothorax is defined as the development of air within the pleural space in the absence of trauma or iatrogenic causes. Spontaneous pneumothorax has been described in veterinary

VetScript February/March 2021

patients secondary to bullous emphysema, parasitism, bacterial and viral pneumonia, neoplasia and pulmonary abscess formation. The most common cause of spontaneous pneumothorax is reported to be the rupture of pulmonary blebs or bullae. Pulmonary blebs occur when air escapes from the lung parenchyma and becomes trapped between the layers of the visceral pleura. Clinically these appear as

small, blister-like lesions on the surface of the lung, commonly at the lung apices. Pulmonary bullae are generally large, air-filled spaces within the lung parenchyma that occur when a number of adjacent alveolar have been destroyed. Pulmonary bullae may not be visible clinically on the surface of the lung. In humans, spontaneous pneumothorax is reported most commonly in adolescent, tall and ectomorphic males. There is also an association with an increased incidence of spontaneous pneumothorax in cigarette smokers, divers and pilots. Theoretically, it is assumed that small airway obstruction results in the formation of pulmonary bullae or blebs, and that a change in atmospheric pressure or mild trauma results in the rupture of the air-filled structure. The subsequent development of a tension pneumothorax becomes an emergency situation that, if not aggressively treated, can be fatal. It is not known whether the pathophysiology of canine spontaneous pneumothorax

Figure 5: A pulmonary bleb.

Figure 6: A pulmonary bulla.

mimics that of humans; however, the urgency of treatment required is no different. The classical clinical sign of spontaneous pneumothorax in dogs is respiratory distress that may be acute in onset. Tachypnea, increased respiratory effort, tachycardia and anxiety are common presenting features. Radiographs of the thorax typically reveal bilateral pneumothorax (an air-filled

pleural space, partial pulmonary collapse, retraction of lung margins from the chest wall, and elevation of the heart shadow off the sternum in the lateral radiographic view). However, unilateral pneumothorax has also been reported. Pulmonary bullae are occasionally evident radiographically. Initial emergency clinical treatment should consist of thoracocentesis and/or thoracostomy tube drainage.

However, tube drainage is not reported to be effective in resolving pneumothorax in dogs with pulmonary blebs or bullae. The recurrence rate reported is greater than 70%. The definitive treatment for dogs with spontaneous pneumothorax due to pulmonary blebs or bullae should involve surgical resection with partial or complete lung lobectomy. A median sternotomy approach is recommended; however, a lateral thoracotomy may be appropriate when an individual bulla is evident on radiographs or computed tomography (CT) imaging. As pulmonary blebs or bullae may be present on more than one lung lobe, a careful exploration of the thoracic cavity should be performed, and the use of automatic stapling devices for partial lung lobectomy is recommended. Pleurodesis, the production of adhesions between the parietal and visceral pleurae, has been advocated as treatment for spontaneous pneumothorax in humans by using mechanical abrasion or chemical sclerosis. This was the topic of my research project during my surgery residency at Texas A&M University, where mechanical abrasion and talc slurry failed to produce satisfactory adhesions in normal dogs. Further research would be necessary to determine whether pleurodesis is effective in dogs with pulmonary blebs or bullae.

VetScript February/March 2021

News and views Feature In short easy Breathe

FURTHER READING: Â Au J, Weisman D, Stefanacci J, Palmisano M. Use of computed tomography for evaluation of lung lesions associated with spontaneous pneumothorax in dogs: 12 cases (1999–2002). Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 228(5), 733–7, 2006 Â Holtsinger R, Beale B, Bellah J, King R. Spontaneous pneumothorax in the dog: A retrospective analysis of 21 cases. Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association 29(3), 195–210, 1993 Â Holtsinger R, Ellison G. Spontaneous pneumothorax. Compendium on Continuing Education for the Practising Veterinarian 17(2), 197–211, 1995 Â Jerram RM, Fossum TW, Berridge BR, Steinheimer DN, Slater MR. The efficacy of mechanical abrasion and talc slurry as methods of pleurodesis in normal dogs. Veterinary Surgery 28(5), 322–32, 1999 Â Lipscomb V, Hardie R, Dubielzig R. Spontaneous pneumothorax caused by pulmonary blebs and bullae in 12 dogs. Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association 39(5), 435–45, 2003 Â Liu D, Silverstein D. Feline secondary spontaneous pneumothorax: A retrospective study of 16 cases (2000–2012). Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care 24(3), 316–25, 2014 Â Maritato, KC, Colón JA, Kergosien DH. Pneumothorax. Compendium on Continuing Education for the Practising Veterinarian 31(5), 232–42, 2009 Â Milne ME, McCowan C, Landon B. Spontaneous feline pneumothorax caused by ruptured pulmonary bullae associated with possible bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association 46(2), 138–42, 2010 Â Pawloski DR, Broaddus KD. Pneumothorax: A review. Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association 46(6), 385–97, 2010 Â Puerto D, Brockman D, Lindquist C, Drobatz K. Surgical and nonsurgical management of and selected risk factors for spontaneous pneumothorax in dogs: 64 cases (1986–1999). Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 220(11), 1670–4, 2002 Â Reetz J, Caceres A, Suran J, Oura T, Zwingenberger A, Mai W. Sensitivity, positive predictive value, and interobserver variability of computed tomography in the diagnosis of bullae associated with spontaneous pneumothorax in dogs: 19 cases (2003–2012). Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 243(2), 244–51, 2013 Â Valentine A, Smeak D, Allen D, Mauterer J, Minihan A. Spontaneous pneumothorax in dogs. Compendium on Continuing Education for the Practising Veterinarian 18(1), 53–62, 1996 Â Yoshioka M. Management of spontaneous pneumothorax in twelve dogs. Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association 18(1), 57–62, 1982

VetScript February/March 2021

The definitive treatment for dogs with spontaneous pneumothorax due to pulmonary blebs or bullae should involve surgical resection with partial or complete lung lobectomy.

In Prada’s case, the spontaneous pneumothorax appeared to result from a single, large bullous lesion in the right middle lobe – therefore a lateral thoracotomy was chosen as the surgical approach of choice. Surgical treatment consisted of complete lung lobectomy using an automatic stapling device. Postoperative care consisted of intermittent chest drainage, oxygen therapy and a continuousrate infusion of fentanyl for postoperative analgesia. The dog made an excellent recovery from surgery and was essentially normal at the final examination. Histopathology of the resected lung confirmed a diagnosis of bronchiectasis and bullous pulmonary disease with no obvious underlying cause identified. The underlying reason for the development of the large bullous lesion in this dog’s lung lobe was undetermined. The possibility of spontaneous pneumothorax should be considered in any case of acute respiratory distress, even in small breed dogs such as Prada. The condition has also been reported in cats. Richard Jerram is a veterinarian and partner at Veterinary Specialists Auckland. He is a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons and a registered specialist in small animal surgery.

The Veterinary Dental Company

In the workplace Take the lead

Supporting leaders in leadership By the NZVA Education team

New courses for veterinary practice managers and owners boost skills in leadership and management.

eterinary practice managers and owners often find themselves in situations that require leadership and management expertise. They could be dealing with client disputes, wanting to galvanise their teams when clinics are packed, or seeking to set good examples for their staff of the values they want to foster. Often, too, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not just those running the practices who require these skills, but also people on the ground, such as lead veterinarians and veterinary nurses, who are responsible for managing other staff. A clinic may take on a new graduate, who needs the support of the entire team while they find their feet, or a veterinarian may be ready to strike out on their own and start a clinic.

What does the Diploma of Leadership and Management (BSB51918) involve? The diploma comprises 12 units (10 set units and two electives). Each unit includes access to support, training videos, four one-on-one sessions with an allocated coach, and unlimited support access via online chat, email or phone calls. As well as using learning guides and workbooks, participants are provided with a recommended reading list that complements the learning focus.

What participants will get

Access to the Animal Industries Resource Centre online portal. Access to a community Facebook page to network with other students. An allocated coach to support you through your learning. Resources and tools to support your learning as well as your career growth. A qualification that is nationally recognised in Australia. The Animal Industries Resource Centre is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO Code 31424).

When is it?

The course offers rolling intakes, so participants can start at any time.

How do I register?

To learn more, or to register, visit www.nzva.org.nz/professionals/ edhub/business.

However, many leaders have never been taught skills in leadership and management. Learning on the job and picking things up along the way might have helped them get by, but they can find the gaps in their skills frustrating when it comes to dealing with the challenges of everyday clinic life.

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This year the NZVA and Crampton Consulting Group’s Animal Industries Resource Centre are joining forces to offer both a Diploma of Leadership and Management and a shorter support programme to help address these skill shortages. One of the big takeaways is, ‘there’s more to leadership than just managing people’. Sue Crampton is a veterinary nurse and business manager and is acknowledged as a leadership trainer across Australasia. She manages the team that developed the courses. Sue says if she’s learned one thing from her many years in practice, coaching leaders in the veterinary industry and university, it’s that one of the biggest challenges in any role is understanding what’s expected of you. “Job descriptions can only tell you so much. You really need to understand the parameters, boundaries and operating guidelines in which you work,” she says, adding that understanding the limits of their roles, as well as their personal limits, can help leaders make sound decisions and know when to delegate and when to complete tasks themselves.

What does the Leadership Intelligence Development and Support Programme involve?

The course comprises six online modules to help people develop leadership skills. They include learning guides, videos and activities. The modules also include a rolling coaching programme to give participants additional support that aligns with the topics of the online programme.

What participants will get

Access to the online course component. Downloadable tools and resources. Enrolment in a rolling coaching programme that workshops participants’ development points and ensures they can implement the learning outcomes in their working lives.

When is it?

The course offers rolling intakes, so participants can start at any time.

How do I register?

To learn more, or to register, visit www.nzva.org.nz/professionals/ edhub/business.

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A framework of systems and processes provides the foundation of leadership and management, Sue explains. From there, it all comes down to understanding how to deliver messages effectively. Those intricacies of how to manage people are what many managers and supervisors find either extremely rewarding or extremely challenging, according to Sue. “Leadership involves an ability to communicate, to persuade and to encourage people to take meaningful and productive actions,” she says. “It’s an ongoing learning process, so owners, managers and team leaders should approach their roles with a mindset of wanting to continually improve.” Adopting such a mindset, and fostering management skills, can have real, tangible benefits for a business, according to Lotte Cantley, the NZVA’s CPD Academic Director and a key player in developing the courses. She sees leadership as one of those fundamental skills that can make or break a business. “Leadership is critical to the survival and sustainability of the veterinary profession,” she says. Lotte believes good leadership is part of a positive clinic culture and that positive work environments ultimately increase retention in the veterinary profession. “We want to help foster happier, more sustainable veterinary workplaces and improve personal job satisfaction,” she says. That’s why the 18-month-long diploma includes – through a blend of online and coaching support – a focus on defining leadership in terms of commitment, consistency, challenge, collaboration, choices and curiosity. It also covers governance, people systems, human resource compliance, marketing, finances and operational systems. Coaching and mentoring are offered to help participants implement what they learn in their own practices. As an alternative to the 18-month diploma course, Crampton Consulting Group’s Leadership Intelligence Development and Support Programme offers online training in a six-month course. The programme focuses on continual career evolution and progression and covers essential communication, team development, project management and conflict management skills. Like the diploma, it combines e-learning and a coaching programme, where participants workshop their ideas. Lotte says leadership is something everyone can embrace. “Every one of us is a leader, whether we lead an entire veterinary business, a small team, a group of friends or just ourselves… we’re all leaders in some form.”

VetScript February/March 2021

News In the and workplace views In short thinking Strategic

Start the year off right By Shaun Phelan

To build and grow a successful veterinary practice, you need more than just a team of great veterinarians.

aving a strategic plan for your practice is not only important in guarding against catastrophic events like global pandemics and major earthquakes. It’s also relevant if, for example, a number of your staff are approaching retirement, your infrastructure is letting you down, or a new practice has opened nearby and is luring your customers with lower prices. It’s a good idea to think regularly about your goals for the practice – but if you’ve never thought about your practice’s future, or it’s been a while since you last reviewed your strategy, this new year is as good a time as any for some planning sessions.

What is strategic planning? In its simplest form, strategic planning involves looking at how your practice is going and thinking about what the future might hold for you, the practice and the profession more generally.

Different practices have different goals. Some owners have ambitious goals for growth, whether it’s in the revenue they generate, the services they provide or the number of clients they serve. Others want to keep things ticking along as they are, and still others may be looking to exit their practices and do something entirely different. Bear in mind that the long-term vision for your practice – such as what it will look like in 2031 – probably won’t be achievable unless you set some short-term goals. For example, you might want to double your revenue by the end of the decade, but to do that you’ll need to hire more staff, you may need to do some advertising and you’ll need to make sure your building, equipment and IT systems can handle the extra load. None of that happens overnight, so you’ll need to work out what needs to be achieved next year, in two years’ time, and in five or six years’ time.

What sorts of question do you need to ask? The precise questions you ask will depend on what you want to achieve. In general terms you can categorise them under three major headings:

What do your customers want or need? How well do you understand your clients right now, and how well are you addressing their needs?

You and your team may be providing your clients with excellent service when they bring in their pets or you visit their properties, but they may be unhappy about long waiting times for consultations or a timeconsuming and frustrating billing process. The more you understand your clients – perhaps through regular surveys – the easier you’ll find it to work out what else you need to do to keep them happy.

What do your staff want or need? What makes your staff tick, and what else might they need to make your practice successful?

Start with your staffing levels. Do you have enough people to meet current demand or to grow your practice? Do you have the right mix of people for the future of the practice? If you’re likely to be recruiting soon, do you have the recruitment and induction processes required to attract good candidates – and will your culture help you to retain staff after they’ve joined? It’s important to consider how well your practice supports your staff. Do you need to upgrade the premises to make it a more pleasant place to work? Is your customer record-keeping system fit for purpose, or do your staff spend more time than necessary dealing with its quirks?

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Bear in mind that the long-term vision for your practice – such as what it will look like in 2031 – probably won’t be achievable unless you set some short-term goals.

What’s going on outside your practice that you need to be aware of and plan for?

Are you complying with current legislation, and is there anything coming up that might require you to do things differently? Are trends in the veterinary profession influencing your plans for growth? And will your business continuity plans be effective in a natural disaster, cyberattack or future COVID-19 lockdowns? No matter what you plan for your practice in 2021 and beyond, you may need specialist business support. MAS can help. As part of our HealthyPractice service we have information to help with strategic and succession planning, including a DIY strategic planning pack.

The NZVA

Elbow Dysplasia

Shaun Phelan is a Business Advisory Manager with MAS. He leads the team that developed HealthyPractice – an online business support service for medical, dental and veterinary practices. This article is of a general nature and is not a substitute for professional and individually tailored business or legal advice. © Medical Assurance Society New Zealand Limited 2021.

Get a helping hand MAS’s HealthyPractice online business support service has been designed especially for those who manage veterinary practices. It provides information and templates on all areas of business ownership, employment and management – all backed by MAS’s business-hour helpdesk support. Visit the HealthyPractice website at www.healthypractice.co.nz to find out more or call the HealthyPractice team on 0800 800 627 for a free trial and website tutorial.

Sub m case it your s on l now ine

Scheme

New ONLINE SUBMISSIONS and faster turnaround times

For resources and information visit nzva.org.nz/resource/ companion-animal/ dysplasia VetScript February/March 2021

News In the and lab views In short equines Asthmatic

Catch your breath By Sandy Weltan

Equine asthma is surprisingly similar to human asthma, but pathologists still have a way to go in understanding its diagnosis and treatment.

espiratory disease is a common cause of decreased performance in horses. Until recently, equine respiratory disease was divided into two syndromes, inflammatory airway disease (IAD) and recurrent airway obstruction (RAO). IAD was regarded as a disease of young racehorses, while RAO related to older horses. In reality, however, there is a considerable overlap and both syndromes now fall under the term moderate to severe equine asthma.

non-T2 asthma. The former are more allergic and have higher immunoglobulin G levels, with large numbers of eosinophils in the sputum and peripheral eosinophilia. However, they are responsive to treatment with corticosteroids. Non-T2 asthma is clinically less severe but less responsive to corticosteroid treatment. T-cells that express interleukin 17 have been associated with severe neutrophilic asthma. There is also a subset of innate lymphocytes (without common lymphocyte markers) that are also not corticosteroid sensitive. Severe equine asthma is predominantly neutrophilic, and although T2 cytokines and interleukin 17 have been identified, there is a good response to corticosteroid treatment. The troubling finding in both human and equine asthma is that structural remodelling of the airways takes place as a result of inflammation. It is partially reversed by the removal of the inciting cause.

The disease Human asthma and equine asthma have a number of similarities. Two cell subsets have been identified in the allergic response in both humans and horses: asthma associated with T-helper-2 cytokines and

VetScript February/March 2021

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Equine asthma varies from mild to severe, with clinical signs that are common in all cases. These include chronic cough, sometimes with nasal discharge, excess mucus and poor performance. However, there are variations in cause, severity and pathological lesions. Mild and moderate cases demonstrate subclinical disease characterised only by poor performance. Severe cases have typical signs with dyspnoea, coughing and nasal discharge.

Possible causes of equine asthma include: Â genetic susceptibility to particular bacterial lowerairway infections. No specific genetic risk factors or useful genetic markers have yet been identified Â seasonal factors such as pollen or mouldy feed due to warm, damp conditions

The troubling finding in both human and equine asthma is that structural remodelling of the airways takes place as a result of inflammation. Â persistent environmental conditions such as stable dust or organic dust.

Â Lung function testing. This is the gold standard in human asthma testing but is not readily available for horses.

Â Airway secretions. This is a primary diagnostic tool for horses. Using bronchoalveolar lavage is more invasive but it is possible to get a better diagnostic sample. It is recommended that at least 250 millilitres of saline be used and at least 500 cells be counted (Couëtil et al., 2020). A trans-tracheal wash is easier to perform in the field, but mucus can interfere with accurate differential counts.

Â Endoscopy is useful both for ruling out upper airway obstruction as a cause of the symptoms and because it allows for mucus grading. Tracheal mucus correlates well with racing performance (Holcombe et al., 2006). Note that bronchial biopsies and radiography or ultrasound are currently not considered part of the minimum database for practitioners. Comparisons between human asthma and equine asthma have allowed a better understanding of the pathogenesis of equine asthma, but it still needs further defining. Future research will aim at optimising diagnosis (including developing non-invasive field diagnostic techniques and identifying biomarkers of disease) and the treatment of the disease (including finding alternatives to corticosteroids as well as new therapies).

Bacteria and viruses (including Actinobacillus spp. and equine influenza) may also play a role in the development of equine asthma. However, this remains poorly understood.

Sandy Weltan is a clinical pathologist with Gribbles Veterinary.

Diagnosis

Couëtil LL, Cardwell JM, Gerber V, Lavole J-P, Léguillette R, Richard EA. ACVIM Consensus Statement – Inflammatory airway Disease of Horses – Revised Consensus Statement. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine 30, 503–15, 2016

A 2020 paper proposed a minimum database for practitioners and researchers to use in diagnosing equine asthma (Couëtil et al., 2020). It suggested collecting the following information:

Â The history of the animal. This can often lead to a tentative diagnosis. It is important to ask about the risk factors outlined above, such as type of feed and heat.

Â Clinical presentation via a clinical scoring measure such as the Improved clinically Detectable Equine Asthma Scoring System (IDEASS). This particular modified 23-point scoring system has been shown to discriminate mild to severe disease (Lavoie et al., 2019). However, it is more difficult to distinguish mild cases from healthy horses or horses who are in remission.

REFERENCES AND FURTHER READING:

Couëtil L, Cardwell JM, Léguillette R, Mazan M, Richard E, Bienzle D, Bullone M, Gerber V, Ivester K, Lavoie J-P et al. Equine asthma: Current understanding and future directions. Frontiers in Veterinary Science 7, 450, 2020 Fraipont A, Van Erck E, Ramery E, Richard E, Denoix J-P, Lekeux P, Art T. Subclinical diseases underlying poor performance in endurance horses: Diagnostic methods and predictive tests. Veterinary Record 169, 154, 2011 Holcombe SJ, Robinson NE, Derksen FJ, Bertold B, Genovese R, Miller R, de Feiter Rupp H, Carr EA, Eberhart SW, Boruta D, Kaneene JB. Effect of tracheal mucus and tracheal cytology on racing performance in Thoroughbred racehorses. Equine Veterinary Journal 38, 300–4, 2006 Lavoie J-P, Bullone M, Rodrigues N, Germim P, Albrecht B, von Salis-Soglio M. Effect of different doses of inhaled ciclesonide on lung function, clinical signs related to airflow limitation and serum cortisol levels in horses with experimentally induced mild to severe airway obstruction. Equine Veterinary Journal 51, 779–86, 2019

VetScript February/March 2021

In the lab Skin deep

The case of the lumpy lamoid By Lisa Schmidt

Pathologists help determine the cause of lumps covering the body of a young alpaca. History A six-year-old male alpaca was covered in lumps that ranged from 0.5 centimetres to 5 centimetres in diameter (Figure 1). Centrally, the lesions contained black, waxy material. Over time the lesions became indurate, formed a serocellular crust and resolved, leaving scars over the body and neck.

FIGURE 1: The alpacaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s neck (a) and flank (b) showing the lumps that varied in size and contained black, waxy material. Over time the lesions would rupture, resolve and result in fibrosis (scars) on the neck and body. (Images credit: Don Moore, Bay Vets)

Cytology To investigate the lesions, some of the black, waxy material from the centre of a cystic lesion was submitted for cytology and culture. Cytologically, the smears had numerous angular, blue, anuclear, mature keratinocytes (Figure 2). Regularly, keratinocytes had variable amounts of black pigment (melanin presumed). Differential diagnoses of the lesions based on cytology included follicular cysts, cystic follicular tumours and dilated hair follicles/ comedones. Culture was unrewarding.

Histopathology To further investigate the lesion, two 8-millimetrediameter punch biopsies from the lesions were submitted in fixative. The biopsies contained portions

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FIGURE 2: Cytology of alpaca skin nodules. The lesions contained mostly mature, anuclear, angular keratinocytes with variable amounts of black pigment (melanin).

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of cystic hair follicles that expanded the dermis and deep dermis (Figure 3). The cysts were lined with squamous epithelium. The epithelium recapitulated various aspects of the hair follicles and had gradual and abrupt keratinisation; some areas had a granular cell layer and others did not; and infrequently, a focus of epithelial cells had trichohyalin granules. Regularly, basal cells were pigmented. Centrally, the cysts contained lamellar eosinophilic keratin and ghost cells with melanin, which was consistent with cytology. A previous biopsy, which consisted of only a serocellular crust, was unrewarding.

Final diagnosis Multiple follicular cysts.

FIGURE 3: Histology of alpaca skin nodules. (a) Part of a follicular cyst present in the dermis with central keratin and pigmented ghost cells. (bâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;d) Features of the follicular cyst walls. (b) Stratified squamous epithelium without a granular cell layer (isthmus-type epithelium). (c) Stratified squamous epithelium with a granular cell layer (infundibular-type epithelium). (d) Stratified squamous epithelium with a focus of cells that contain trichohyalin granules (*inner-root sheath differentiation).

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In the lab Skin deep

TABLE 1. Common skin diseases in alpacas (adapted from Scott et al., 2011) BACTERIAL DISEASES Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis

• Solitary or multiple subcutaneous nodules or abscesses • Head, submandibular and ventral cervical regions are commonly affected • Pyogranulomatous inflammation

Tooth root abscesses

• Mandibular swellings (more common) with or without draining tracts • Actinomyces and various anaerobes are common isolates

Dermatophilus congolensis

• Usually present as thick crusts on the pinnae

Bacterial folliculitis

• Erythematous papules, pustules, brown-to-yellow crusts, epidermal collarettes and annular areas of alopecia and scaling • Muzzle, back, ventrum and distal hindlegs are commonly affected

Intertrigo (skin-fold dermatitis)

• Typically has secondary bacterial infections • Cytology: degenerate neutrophils and phagocytosed cocci

Botryomycosis

• Staphylococcus aureus • Multiple abscesses and granulomas 0.5-4cm diameter on the medial thigh • Diagnosis is based on culture and histology

FUNGAL DISEASE Dermatophytosis

• Anecdotal reports

VIRAL DISEASE Contagious viral pustular dermatitis (‘orf’ or ‘contagious ecthyma’)

• Affects cria 2–4 months of age • Crusts on lips and nostrils, and teats of dams • Zoonotic

ECTOPARASITIC DISEASES Mange, mites and lice (see Table 2 for more information)

• A common cause of skin diseases of alpacas • Sarcoptes scabiei • Psoroptic and chorioptic mange • Lice (eg, Bovicola breviceps) • Miscellaneous • Fleas, Demodex (Hill et al., 2008), mosquitos, black flies, ticks etc

NEOPLASIA AND NON-NEOPLASTIC TUMOURS Fibropapillomas or fibromas Mucocutaneous fibropapillomas

• Caused by camelid papillomavirus

Trichoepitheliomas

• 1–4cm diameter on the neck, thorax and rump

Hybrid follicular cysts

• 1–3cm, spontaneous caseous black discharge

Collagenous hamartomas

• Most common on the eyelid, neck and feet

ENVIRONMENTAL DISEASES Traumatic wounds

• From fencing, dog bites etc

Contact dermatitis MISCELLANEOUS DISEASES Non-inflammatory alopecia

• Shedding can be patchy and mistaken for disease in some animals

Immunologic diseases

• • • •

Congenital diseases

• Ichthyosis • Bilateral aural haematomas and chondritis

Zinc-responsive dermatitis Focal sterile eosinophilic and neutrophilic folliculitis and furunculosis Idiopathic nasal/perioral hyperkeratosis dermatosis

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Pemphigus-like diseases (anecdotal reports) Drug reactions (vasculitis) Insect bite hypersensitivity reactions Idiopathic urticaria

TABLE 2. Ectoparasitic diseases of alpacas (adapted from Scott et al., 2011) DISEASE

CLINICAL PRESENTATION

Sarcoptic mange

• • • • • • •

Alopecia and severe pruritus Early lesions: erythema, papules and yellow-to-grey crusts Chronic changes: lichenification and hyperpigmentation Begins on the ventral abdomen and chest, axilla and groin, with gradual extension to the medial thighs, prepuce, perineum, legs, interdigital spaces, face and pinnae Secondary bacterial infection can complicate the situation Potentially zoonotic Skin scrapings (negative scrapings do not rule out disease)

Psoroptic mange

• • • •

Psoroptes cuniculi reported to infect new world camelids (Anon., 2002) Only the ear canals are affected +/- purulent discharge due to secondary bacterial infection Lesions include papules, crusts, exudation, alopecia and pruritus Skin scrapings

Chorioptic mange

• • • •

Most common mite infestation of alpacas Scale, crusts and alopecia on the ventral tail, perineal region, ventral abdomen and medial thighs. Lesions then spread to the axillae, tips and lateral surface of the pinnae, interdigital spaces and distal limbs up to the fetlocks Skin scrapings Histology: eosinophilic epidermal microabscesses and pustules

Pediculosis (lice)

• Heavy infestations cause biting, rubbing, and kicking that leads to traumatic alopecia, excoriation and secondary bacterial infections • Diagnose by looking at skin for lice and at fibre for attached nits

Multiple follicular cysts are a cause of nodular skin disease in the alpaca and may be more common than suggested in the literature (Newkirk and Frank, 2011).

Discussion Differential diagnoses for skin nodules in alpacas include fibromas, fibropapillomas, melanocytomas, trichoepitheliomas, lymphomas, and collagenous and hair follicle hamartomas (Newkirk and Frank, 2011). Other common skin lesions seen in alpacas are listed in Table 1, with ectoparasitic diseases described in Table 2. In this case the lesions were consistent with multiple follicular cysts. These are non-neoplastic skin masses that are lined with follicular epithelium, which recapitulate different aspects of hair follicle epithelium (Gross et al., 2006; Newkirk and Frank, 2011). Cysts can be further classified by the type of epithelium lining the cyst walls. Multiple follicular cysts are common in sheep and occur sporadically in dogs, horses and humans. The pathogenesis of multiple follicular cysts is unclear. However, some have suggested that fibre type or repeated shearing

may contribute to the development of these lesions. In Merino sheep there may be a genetic predisposition to develop follicular cysts (Newkirk and Frank, 2011). Multiple follicular cysts are a cause of nodular skin disease in the alpaca and may be more common than suggested in the literature (Newkirk and Frank, 2011). While this lesion is common in alpacas, biopsies should be performed to confirm the diagnosis. Lisa Schmidt is a pathologist with SVS Laboratories. REFERENCES: Anonymous. Recently introduced exotic animals and their parasites: What risk to New Zealand’s biosecurity? Surveillance 29(4), 15–7, 2002 Gross TL, Ihrke PJ, Walder EJ, Affolter VK. Follicular tumors. Skin Diseases of the Dog and Cat: Clinical and Histopathologic Diagnosis. 2nd Edtn. Pp 604–40. Blackwell Science, Oxford, UK, 2006 Hill FI, McKenna PB, Miram CH. Demodex spp. infestation and suspected demodicosis of alpacas (Vicugna pacos) in New Zealand. New Zealand Veterinary Journal 56(3), 148, 2008 Newkirk KM, Frank LA. Multiple follicular cysts in four alpacas (Vicugna pacos). Veterinary Dermatology 22(3), 275–8, 2011 Scott DW, Vogel JW, Fleis RI, Miller WH Jr, Smith MC. Skin diseases in the alpaca (Vicugna pacos): A literature review and retrospective analysis of 68 cases (Cornell University 1997–2006). Veterinary Dermatology 22(1), 2–16, 2011

VetScript February/March 2021

In the lab Facial eczema

Five steps to help become facial eczema free By Andrew MacPherson

Knowing how to control facial eczema and mitigate it is crucial after several warmer, more humid summer months.

acial eczema is an issue for sheep and cattle throughout New Zealand – particularly in the North Island and areas such as Tasman, Marlborough and the West Coast. It’s prevalent wherever conditions are suited to growing the disease-causing Pithomyces chartarum fungus. The National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA) Taihoro Nukurangi predicts that the start of 2021 is going to be wet, humid and warm owing to an incoming La Niña weather pattern (NIWA Taihoro Nukurangi, 2020). That means now is an excellent time to consider the steps required to mitigate the effects of facial eczema on stock.

Step one: Get a handle on risk When regional spore counts reach ≥20,000 spores per gram (g) of pasture, it’s a good idea to make localised spore counts on individual properties. Regional spore counts are posted on the AsureQuality website, and most veterinary clinics and reference laboratories supply pasture and faecal spore-counting services. Bear in mind that spore counts can vary between paddocks, depending on aspect and shelter on individual farms. Some areas of farms will regularly provide higher counts, and when this happens it’s important to consider grazing management. Multiple pasture samples (at least 10 but more is better) should be collected on a transect diagonally across a paddock, and mixed thoroughly before several small subsamples are selected and bulked to send for spore counting. Faecal spore counting is another measure of the number of spores animals are ingesting. This is because the spores pass through the animals’ digestive systems intact and are eliminated in the faeces. In sheep: Â a count of 600,000–1 million spores/g dry weight, from a pooled faecal sample of 10 animals, equates to a moderate risk

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The relationship between pasture and faecal counts depends on the grazing pressure. At low grazing pressures faecal counts (on dry weight faeces) are typically five or six times the pasture counts, but this increases to 10 times the pasture counts at high grazing pressures.

Â a count of >1 million spores/g equates to a high risk of facial eczema. It’s important that farmers and veterinarians anticipate risk by starting facial eczema prevention measures when the spore count is trending towards 100,000g dry weight of faeces (or 30,000g if the counts are based on wet weight). The disadvantage of faecal spore counts is the time required to get results. The faeces must first pass through the animal, and then are dispatched, processed and counted and the results sent back. This means faecal spore counts are best used to monitor risk early in the season (when the spore count is low) and pasture counts when the numbers begin to rise. The relationship between pasture and faecal counts depends on the grazing pressure. At low grazing pressures faecal counts (on dry weight faeces) are typically five or six times the pasture counts, but this increases to 10 times the pasture counts at high grazing pressures.

Step two: Consider zinc treatment If pasture spore counts are static, it’s appropriate to stay in monitoring mode. If they trend upwards to ≥30,000 spores/g of pasture (20,000 if the weather is warm and humid and forecast to stay that way), farmers need to begin prophylactic zinc treatment of potentially susceptible stock.

Water troughs need to be primed with the zincsupplemented water in anticipation of rising spore counts to avoid any delay in stock receiving the correct dose. The stock should also not have access to (un)supplemented water sources, as this will reduce the amount of zinc they should receive. Other factors that limit zinc ingestion and therefore animals’ ability to receive therapeutic levels include: Â having troughs only in paddocks, and no treated water in yards Â climatic conditions Â palatability Â an animal’s dominance in the herd/flock Â the level of milk production for cattle. In addition, zinc sludge can collect at the bottom of a trough, leading to potential over-ingestion and subsequent toxicity. If pastures are being treated with fungicides as an additional means of control, this should be done when spore counts are low (Cuttance et al., 2016).

Important: Do not supplement the zinc supplementation period with copper, as copper exacerbates sporidesmin toxicity and reduces zinc’s efficacy.

This can be via various methods: delivering zinc oxide in feed, via slow-release bolus, or via individual drenching; and adding zinc sulphate to water troughs.

Step three: Keep an eye on animals’ zinc levels

Individual drenching provides the best reassurance of protection as long as the dosage is correct – and for this reason accurate weighing is critical to avoid the risks of zinc toxicity or underdosing.

Farmers should check animals’ zinc concentration levels by getting blood (serum) testing done on 10 sheep or cattle – at a range of ages, sizes and production levels – two or three weeks after commencing zinc treatment.

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In the lab Facial eczema

Â If the serum zinc concentration is <20µmol/L, it’s recommended that the zinc supplementation be adjusted to achieve a serum zinc concentration of above 20µmol/L. Â If the serum zinc concentration is 20–35µmol/L, the supplementation programme can be maintained as is.

Zinc toxicity: Due to the high doses of zinc required to prevent liver damage and potential photosensitivity, there can be a narrow margin between toxic and therapeutic amounts of zinc. It is therefore prudent to monitor serum zinc levels in treated animals.

Step four: Check on efficacy and side effects After two or three weeks’ exposure to spore counts of 20,000–30,000 spores/g of pasture, it’s worth monitoring at least 10 animals’ serum gammaglutamyl transferase (GGT) concentrations. GGT concentrations provide indicators of the efficiency of control measures that have been in place for the preceding two or three weeks. This is because subclinical liver damage may be occurring while the animals have no visible clinical signs of facial eczema. In general terms an elevated GGT level is consistent with sporidesmin toxicity. More specifically, a serum GGT concentration of >300IU/L is indicative of subclinical facial eczema (Cuttance et al., 2016). Farmers should also consider monitoring serum calcium concentrations, as zinc can interfere with calcium’s absorption. Therefore long-term or excessive zinc supplementation has the potential to lead to hypocalcaemia.

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Step five: Follow up with monitoring Before finishing any zinc supplementation programme, on-farm grass spore counts should be conducted. Â If a count is >10,000 spores/g of pasture, the zinc supplementation programme should continue. Â If a count is <10, 000 spores/g of pasture and trending down over three weeks, the supplementation can be stopped. However, further spore-count monitoring should be considered until the spore count returns to prefacial-eczema-season levels.

Important: Before winter, farmers should get the copper and serum calcium concentrations in the livers of supplemented stock checked, as zinc can both decrease copper absorption and affect calcium metabolism (as above). Andrew MacPherson is a medical affairs veterinarian for IDEXX New Zealand. REFERENCES: Beef + Lamb New Zealand. Facing up to Facial Eczema: Version 3. Beef + Lamb New Zealand, Wellington, New Zealand, 2019 Cuttance EL, Stevenson MA, Laven RA, Mason WA. Facial eczema management protocols used on dairy farms in the North Island of New Zealand and associated concentrations of zinc in serum. New Zealand Veterinary Journal 64(6), 343–50, 2016 D’Amours G. Facial eczema-monitoring that works. VetScript 33(1), 48–51, 2020 DairyNZ. Facial Eczema: Management for New Zealand Dairy Herds. DairyNZ, Hamilton, New Zealand, 2014 McLachlan S. Zinc poisoning in cattle. VetScript 25(11), 36, 2012 National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA) Taihoro Nukurangi. Seasonal climate outlook November - January 2021. https://niwa.co.nz/climate/ seasonal-climate-outlook/seasonal-climate-outlook-novemberjanuary-2021 (accessed 24 November 2020), New Zealand, 2020

Dechra and CAV present: “A week with…”

Appli cation close s 31 Ma rch 2021

Hey CAV member! Want to upgrade your skills in a particular area of veterinary practice? We have two scholarships available to support you spending a week in practice with a specialist, or special interest practitioner. If you are a CAV member with over three years of clinical experience, you can apply to spend time with one of the following host practitioners in 2021: » Dr Debbie Simpson

Specialist veterinary dermatologist The Skin Vet, Auckland » Dr Craig Irving

Specialist veterinary ophthalmologist Eyevet Services, Feilding Dr Petra Price Resident in veterinary ophthalmology Eyevet Services, Feilding » Dr Janine van Dam

Special interest practitioner, veterinary dentistry Pet Dentistry, Christchurch

Each scholarship is for $2,000, to help cover your time away from practice and travel costs. Conditions of scholarship: To benefit all CAV members, we request that you share your experience by writing a report about your week seeing practice, and an article based on a topic of interest, both for publication in Companion Quarterly magazine.

For more information and an application form: Web: www.nzva.org.nz/branches/cav/scholarships/ Email: cav@vets.org.nz. Applications close on 31 March 2021.

ALL VETERINARY PERSONNEL

CONFERENCE

June NZVA and NZVNA conference Featuring equine, sheep, beef cattle and deer, veterinary industry, veterinary business and equine veterinary nursing streams. » Dates: 23–25 June | Location: Air Force Museum of New Zealand, Christchurch » NZVA workshops will be offered on 26 June » Read more information at nzva.org.nz/professionals/edhub/conference

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CONFERENCE

November NZVA and NZVNA conference Featuring dairy cattle, companion animal, wildlife, epidemiology, food safety, animal welfare, biosecurity, complementary medicine, large animal veterinary technicians and companion animal nursing streams. » Dates: 18–20 November | Location: Te Pae Christchurch Convention and Exhibition Centre » Read more information at nzva.org.nz/professionals/edhub/conference

EQUINE VETERINARIANS

Sports horse medicine and orthopaedics WORKSHOP

Increase your confidence in sport medicine and orthopaedics with this comprehensive course. » Lectures: 25 June | Workshop: 26 June » Tutors: Emmanuelle van Erck will be joined by New Zealand experts » Read more information at nzva.org.nz/professionals/edhub/conference

ONLINE | WORKSHOP

SHEEP, BEEF CATTLE AND DEER VETERINARIANS

Animal health planning Develop integrated animal health plans for sheep, beef and deer farming systems. » Online: 1 June | Workshop: 8 and 9 July (location to be confirmed) » Tutors: Kate Flay, Lorna Humm » Watch this space! More information coming soon!

» Check out www.nzva.org.nz/professionals/edhub

VetScript February/March February 2021 2021

CPD Pathway | Eligible for 5 Massey University credits.

COMPANION ANIMAL VETERINARIANS

Veterinary refresher scheme A self-directed course for veterinarians returning to companion animal practice.

ONLINE

» Start now! » Authors: Sandra Forsyth, Kate Hill, Andrew Worth » Read more information and register at nzva.org.nz/professionals/edhub/companion

COMPANION ANIMAL VETERINARIANS

Landmark Purina Institute study webinar: Pivotal step towards reducing cat allergens ONLINE

» Speakers: Craig Ruaux, David Thomas, Ebenezer Satyaraj, Michael Zajac » Webinar recording available at nzva.org.nz/professionals/edhub/companion

COMPANION ANIMAL VETERINARIANS

Pro Plan Veterinary Diets (PPVD) Be the first to hear the latest information on Purina’s PPVD.

LAUNCH

» Date: 25 March, 7pm » Location: Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and online » Read more information and register at nzva.org.nz/professionals/edhub/companion

COMPANION ANIMAL VETERINARIANS

Purina PPVD webinar series Increase your knowledge across a number of topical issues. » Dates: 15 April, 29 April and 13 May, 7pm

ONLINE

» Expert speakers: Holger Volk, Mike Lappin, Linda Fleeman » Read more information and register at nzva.org.nz/professionals/edhub/companion

» Check out www.nzva.org.nz/professionals/edhub

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CRAMPTON

Leadership ProSkills programme Effectively lead your team and manage your practice.

Consulting Group

» Start now!

ONLINE

» Tutors: Sue Crampton, Mark Hardwick, Rosie Overfield, Deb Render » Read more information and register at nzva.org.nz/professionals/edhub/business

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WELLBEING HUB

Professional skills for veterinary teams Learn techniques that promote team and workplace effectiveness, and develop your own workplace wellness plan. » Start now! Free for NZVA members through VetScholar | $400 for non-members » Tutor: Michael Meehan » Read more information at nzva.org.nz/professionals/edhub/business

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WELLBEING HUB

Wellbeing and resilience for veterinary professionals Fundamental skills required to thrive in the complex veterinary environment. » Start now! Free for NZVA members through VetScholar | $100 for non-members » Author: Belinda Noyes » Read more information at nzva.org.nz/professionals/edhub/business

NZVA MEMBERSHIP

ALL VETERINARY PERSONNEL

Don’t forget to renew your NZVA membership! NZVA members receive exclusive membership pricing on all NZVA courses and... » Free CPD courses and resources through the Wellbeing Hub » Access to CPD recordings through MyCPD » Renew your membership now at nzva.org.nz/membership

» Check out www.nzva.org.nz/professionals/edhub

VetScript February/March February 2021 2021

2021 Membership renewals now open! NZVA would like to thank you for your continued support.

ONLINE AND WORKSHOP

Veterinary point-of-care ultrasound Rapid techniques any practitioner can perform. COMPANION ANIMAL VETERINARIANS

Abdominal- and thoracic-focused assessment with sonography is commonly used to rapidly identify underlying conditions and help direct diagnostics and therapy due to their high sensitivity and specificity at detecting things we commonly see in emergencies. Through a series of case-based interactive webinars and practical, hands-on training, participants will learn and practise the basics of ultrasound exams, including normal findings in healthy dogs. Through this course, you will: • • • • •

increase understanding of daily uses of ultrasound improve your point-of-care ultrasound skills learn new five-minute techniques for scanning the thorax, abdomen and heart to diagnose conditions and direct further work-up and therapy increase confidence in ultrasound diagnosis in a variety of conditions, including pleural space disease, abdominal effusion, alveolar interstitial pathology and basic cardiac pathology feel confident in using focused assessment with sonography for trauma (FAST) techniques for the acute abdomen and trauma patients.

DATES Online: 8 March–9 April Webinars: 10, 17 and 25 March Workshop: 10 April

TUTORS Soren Boysen DVM DACVECC Serge Chalhoub DVM DACVIM (SAIM) Ivayla Yozova Dr.med.vet MVM MBA AFHEA DACVECC

PRICE Online only NZVA member: $500 Non-member: $1,000 Full course NZVA member: $1,180 Non-member: $2,360 Prices are in NZD and include 15% GST.

CPD POINTS Up to 10 CPD activity hours.

Register at nzva.org.nz/professionals/edhub/companion For more educational resources and courses visit www.nzva.org.nz/professionals/edhub VetScript February/March 2021

ONLINE

Diploma of Leadership and Management A broad introduction to business management. ALL VETERINARY PERSONNEL

This course is designed to support managers to effectively manage teams, operational plans, performance, customer service and much more. The course rewards and develops the managers of today and identifies potential leaders – fostering their growth to empower them to lead by example through structure, integrity, emotional intelligence and implementation in the workplace. Benefits » Identify your strengths and maximise them. » Identify your challenges and overcome them. » Develop and implement frameworks to ensure that your practice succeeds. » Increase your satisfaction in your role.

DURATION 12–16 months » Set intakes every three months » Students can commence at any cluster over the 12–16 month course

STRUCTURE Each unit will have » Learning (required readings, reference materials, implementation sheet and structured activities) » Assessments (assessment workbooks and questions, third party reports from workplace) Workplace project: The student must select a significant workplace project of their choosing that impacts on productivity, performance and profitability. PRICE NZVA member: $4,410 Non-member: $4,900 Prices are in AUD.

Find out more at nzva.org.nz/professionals/edhub/business For more educational resources and courses visit www.nzva.org.nz/professionals/edhub

VetScript February/March 2021

ONLINE

CRAMPTON

Consulting Group

Leadership Intelligence Development and Support Programme Contemporary and relevant leadership training. ALL VETERINARY PERSONNEL

Leading a team is a challenging part of any veterinary professional’s role. Managing people and processes requires dedication, self-awareness and a commitment to the business. The Leadership Intelligence Programme will help you to develop an

understanding of leadership and provide you with essential skills that will enable you to continually evolve throughout your career. It combines six modules of e-learning full of activities and tips to engage excellent leadership, along with a coaching programme to workshop your development points and support your learning implementation.

DATE Start anytime! » We recommend you complete one module per month so you will have completed all modules in six months. However you will have course access for one full year. » You will also be invited to coaching sessions each month to support your learning.

PRICE NZVA member: $1,385 Non-member: $1,515 Prices are in NZD and include 15% GST.

CPD POINTS Participants can expect to complete up to nine self-directed CPD points.

Register at nzva.org.nz/professionals/edhub/business For more educational resources and courses visit www.nzva.org.nz/professionals/edhub

VetScript February/March 2021

News and views

Advertorial | Alleva Animal Health

In short

How do you define a ‘true triple’? Alleva Animal Health introduces the only triple-active drench that meets New Zealand’s new, stricter registration standards.

magine you treated a sheep with a drench containing one broadspectrum anthelmintic. After doing so you can effectively measure the amount of the anthelmintic in the sheep’s blood as well as the overall efficacy. Now imagine you combined that anthelmintic with another in a combination drench. Can you be confident that the same amount of anthelmintic will be delivered into the animal as when it was administered alone? Will it contribute the same parasite-killing power to the overall combination? Now think of using three anthelmintics in combination. As a farmer or veterinarian you will want to know that the combination is as effective as three individual treatments.

Recent regulatory changes have “Given the significantly increased the widespread degree of testing required worm resistance when registering combination on New Zealand drenches in New Zealand, and the evidence required farms, it’s that the drenches are fit for critical that we purpose and will perform deliver triple as veterinarians and farmers drenches that expect. Alleva Animal Health’s remain effective BOSS triple combination for years to mineralised sheep drench is currently the only triple-active come” drench successfully registered under this framework. Alleva Animal Health General Manager Blair Loveridge explains. “While there are a number of other triple-broad-

VetScript February/March 2021

spectrum combination options on the market, all of them were registered under the old guidelines and have not been required to meet these higher standards. “We’ve undertaken two dose-confirmation studies, two worm-count studies, five fieldefficacy studies and a range of additional studies, at test sites nationwide, to confirm the efficacy of BOSS triple oral drench.” Blair says that, thanks to this stringent testing process, farmers can have confidence that treatment with a single dose of BOSS triple will deliver the three anthelmintics as effectively as administering them in three separate drenches. In other words, Alleva can confidently call BOSS a ‘true triple’ drench. “Given the widespread worm resistance on New Zealand farms, it’s critical that we deliver triple drenches that remain effective for years to come,” Blair says. “Alleva strongly supports the recommendations of the Wormwise national worm management strategy and believes that proven products such as BOSS triple are crucial to effective parasite control.” n

Proudly New Zealand owned, Alleva Animal Health is a growing force in the veterinary supply chain. It targets its innovation at products that represent the next steps in safety and efficacy and designs them specifically for New Zealand’s farming conditions. For more information, visit www.alleva.co.nz.

COMING SOON

At Nestle Purina® PetCare, our vision is to lead the world in enriching the lives of cats and dogs, together with their owners. Ground-breaking discoveries in canine and feline nutrition help us develop innovative new products and make important advances in pet health and well-being. Our advanced, therapeutic nutrition has been established by decades of research involving over 500 scientists globally and is backed by a team of veterinarians, behaviourists and nutritionists. Launching in March 2021, we look forward to supporting vets treating the cats and dogs of New Zealand.

Find out how Purina® Pro Plan® Veterinary Diets can make a difference to your patients, contact ProPlan.VetDiets@nz.nestle.com or call 0800 738 847 Trademarks are owned by Société Des Produits Nestlé S.A. Any other marks are property of their respective owners. VetScript February/March 2021

News and views

Classifieds | BESTPRACTICE

In short

RANGIORA Equine veterinarian About us Our vision is simple: to be the centre of veterinary excellence and innovation. We are seeking a motivated, enthusiastic and driven team player to help us achieve this. Our goals are set around care, community, communication and continuous improvement. We are a proudly independent, private practice and have been serving our North Canterbury community for more than 50 years. With 25 veterinarians and over 50 support staff, we work closely as a team to deliver a wide range of services. We are proud of our purpose-built, state-of-the-art clinic, which includes a wellequipped, purpose-built surgical equine facility, new stable block, client seminar and meeting rooms – all built to BESTPRACTICE hospital standards. Find out more about us at www.rangioravetcentre.co.nz. About you Our values are excellence, empathy and respect, team and community, and innovation. If you share these values and you enjoy developing strong relationships with clients, working in a team environment and have a desire to see your clients succeed in their equine field through training and advisory work, then this is the job for you! In this exciting position we want you to grow and find your own niche of services to excel in. We are seeking applications from all levels of experience. About the position We have a rapidly expanding equine client base, across all disciplines. The position would ideally suit someone who is enthusiastic, self-motivated, has great people skills and strives for high standards in quality veterinary care. The clinic is BESTPRACTICE accredited and well equipped with a new on-site purpose-built surgical facility and specialist surgeon, digital X-ray, equine shockwave therapy, endoscopy, ultrasound, interleukin-1 receptor antagonist protein therapy and in-house laboratory. You will be well supported by a team of veterinarians and a dedicated equine veterinary nursing team. Your input will be sought, valued and respected. We can offer the successful candidate the following: • Competitive remuneration. • In-house and external CPD opportunities including a generous annual allowance for CPD training. • Support and encouragement with your personal career development. The size of the practice allows for special interests to be pursued. • A modern work ute. • A smartphone, laptop or tablet, uniform and wet weather clothing. • Equine-only after-hours on a 1:4 roster with a day in lieu. Rangiora is a great place to live, work and play! This is a fantastic opportunity for you and the rest of the family. Applying for this position could be the best decision you’ve made in a while! To apply or to have a confidential discussion about employment prospects please contact: Craig Perriman Practice Manager Email: craigp@rangvet.co.nz Mobile: 021 034 8383 Applicants for this position should have New Zealand residency or a valid New Zealand work visa.

VetScript February/March 2021

RANGIORA Companion animal veterinarian – surgeon About us Our vision is simple: to be the centre of veterinary excellence and innovation. We are seeking a motivated, enthusiastic and driven team player to help us achieve this. Our goals are set around care, community, communication and continuous improvement. Enhancing lives together is why we come to work every day. We are a proudly independent, private practice and have been serving our North Canterbury community for more than 50 years. With 25 veterinarians and over 50 support staff, we work closely as a team to deliver a wide range of services. We are proud of our purpose-built, state-of-the-art clinic, which includes one of New Zealand’s few 24-hour hospitals with two sterile surgical theatres, a dental suite, six consultation rooms, and for inpatients we have 20 walk-in kennels and a separate cattery – all built to BESTPRACTICE hospital standards. Find out more about us at www.rangioravetcentre.co.nz. About you Our values are excellence, empathy and respect, team and community, and innovation. If you share these values and you enjoy developing strong relationships with clients, working in a team environment and have a desire to see your clients succeed in their equine field through training and advisory work, then this is the job for you! We are looking for someone who is experienced, has a passion for surgery and has a postgraduate qualification or is looking to work towards one in the future. You will be working alongside colleagues with advanced qualifications in dentistry, emergency and critical care, medicine and dermatology. About the position The role could be part- or full-time to suit the successful candidate. You will assist with our rapidly-expanding surgical work for both pets and working dogs. We have a client base of more than 8,000. The established referral surgical case load is supported by SmartFlow patient management software, extensive surgical, anaesthesia and supportive care instrumentation and equipment. Access to CT and MRI is readily available off-site. You will be supported by an experienced and passionate support staff team, including an Academy of Veterinary Technicians anaesthesia technician and a physiotherapy and rehabilitation team on site. We can offer the successful candidate the following: • Excellent eemuneration. • In-house and external CPD opportunities including $3,500 towards CPD training annually. • Support and encouragement with your personal career development. The size of the practice allows for special interests to be pursued. • Only 1:7 late night shifts (until 7:00 pm) and a 1:4 Saturday roster, because of our own 24-hour after-hours. • Wellbeing initiatives including regular wellbeing seminars from external providers, subsidised in-house massages and a complimentary staff fruit bowl. Rangiora is a great place to live, work and play! This is a fantastic opportunity for you and the rest of the family. Applying for this position could be the best decision you’ve made in a while! To apply or to have a confidential discussion about employment prospects please contact: Craig Perriman Practice Manager Email: craigp@rangvet.co.nz Mobile: 021 034 8383 Applicants for this position should have New Zealand residency or a valid New Zealand work visa.

BULLS/MARTON

Experienced small animal veterinarian

Production animal veterinarian – Maternity leave cover

Southern Rangitikei Veterinary Services requires the services of an experienced, committed, small animal veterinarian. One of our team is heading off to work in the UK, which will leave a significant gap that we need to fill. This could provide an exceptional opportunity for you!

Southern Rangitikei Veterinary Services requires the services of an experienced, committed, production animal veterinarian. This is a 12-month, fixedterm position covering for one of our veterinarians away on maternity leave from February/March 2021.

If you: • are confident in all areas of small animal practice • practise high standards in quality of care • are hard working with good time management skills • have demonstrated excellent client relationship skills • have leadership aspirations • have a great sense of humour • enjoy involvement in the local community

If you: • are confident in all areas of production animal practice • practice high standards in quality of care • are hard working with good time management skills • have demonstrated excellent client relationship skills • have leadership aspirations • have a great sense of humour • enjoy involvement in the local community

Then we will: • provide a collegial working environment • provide a team of very well-qualified veterinary nurses • provide all the usual equipment including in-house blood testing • pay salary commensurate with experience and all normal professional fees • enable and foster special interests • strongly support your personal and professional development • schedule Friday happy hours each week.

Southern Rangitikei Veterinary Services veterinarians work in silos as either an equine, production or companion animal veterinarian, with six partners working full-time in the business. Our long-term strategy is to continue as the very family-friendly, independent and fun place that we are at present. We enjoy each other’s company such that we will take any excuse for a social occasion. You could be part of this! Our Bulls/Marton practice area is very close to Palmerston North. This means that we are able to enjoy the benefits of having a big city close by, while still enjoying the fact that we belong to a smaller rural community. Professionally it is great to be close to Massey University and, for recreation, Wellington, New Plymouth, Hawke’s Bay and Ruapehu are all within two hours. Please send applications or any enquiries to Dave Barton at dave.barton@srvs.co.nz or contact him on 027 249 6272.

VETERINARY LOCUM AGENCY

(Veterinarians and veterinary nurses) For locum enquiries and information on permanent positions, please contact: Ms P Currall PO Box 12147 Beckenham Christchurch 8242 Phone: 03 337 1051 Email: paddy.currall@xtra.co.nz www.vetsolutions.co.nz

Classifieds | BESTPRACTICE

BULLS/MARTON

TO FIND OR FILL A JOB IN NEW ZEALAND Contact Kookaburra Veterinary Employment Permanent and locum veterinarians, plus free veterinary nurse service. Email: jobs@kookaburravets.com Phone: +61 266 509090 Fax: +61 266 509091 www.kookaburravets.com More than 15,000 visitors per month.

2021 CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING Deadline The booking and copy deadline is the 1st of the month preceding publication. Enquiries and bookings For enquiries, bookings and to submit copy, please go to www.nzva.org.nz and click on ‘Jobs’ or contact the NZVA office. Phone: 04 471 0484 Email: classifieds@vets.org.nz Fax:

04 471 0494

Post: NZVA Classified Advertising PO Box 11212 Manners Street Wellington 6142

VetScript February/March 2021

News and views

Classifieds | Situations vacant

In short

CHRISTCHURCH

GOLDEN BAY

After Hours Veterinary Centre Full- or part-time veterinarian Are you a proactive veterinarian looking for a change? Or searching for a better quality of life? This could be just what you are looking for. Kick-start your career in emergency medicine! In this role, you will work either full- or part-time in our small animal veterinary emergency clinic based in central Christchurch. The roster is highly attractive and flexible. Full-time comprises 32–35 hours per week on average, giving you approximately four days off per week. This will give you plenty of time to experience all that the Garden City and surrounding areas have to offer: mountain biking, kayaking, skiing, boating, surfing, theatres and hiking. Working alongside a team of experienced emergency clinicians and highly competent qualified nurses, this business is known for its high standards, as well as for a fun, well-structured work environment. We place an emphasis on developing people’s skills through continuing education. To be successful in this role you will: • be confident in your skills and ability in the veterinary field, with the willingness to be proactive and motivated • have an enthusiastic attitude with great interpersonal skills • have the flexibility to work evenings, weekends and public holidays. After Hours Veterinary Centre has a new graduate training programme, so we would consider a new graduate for this role. In return for your skills and dedication you will receive a highly competitive salary and a variety of staff benefits. Do not wait! Make the move to start your career with us and contact Ngaire Dixon at vet@afterhoursvet.co.nz.

CANTERBURY Mixed animal veterinarian

We have an opportunity for a mixed animal veterinarian to join our team in a busy, privately owned practice. All levels of experience will be considered. Excellent remuneration for skill set. Please contact us to discuss this further or send your CV to jonathanc@canvet.co.nz.

HAWKE’S BAY

VetScript February/March 2021

Companion or mixed animal veterinarian Join a team that provides professional satisfaction as well as lifestyle choices in sunny Hawke’s Bay. VetsOne is a mixed animal private practice in Hastings seeking a predominately companion animal veterinarian for a fulltime position. Experience is preferred but not essential, so applicants at all levels are welcome to apply. The right person would be: • available for a Monday to Friday position with a share of after-hours and weekend rostering (split into companion and large animal) • committed to engaging in a team environment (this is essential) and have great communication skills • predominately interested in companion animal medicine • prepared to offer excellence in animal care and client service, with high professional standards and empathy for animals • keen to progress their career through continuing education and peer support • looking for a long-term home within a great team. What we can offer to you: • A large practice with a range of experience and interests to support you in your professional growth. • A new purpose-built clinic with a lot of new “toys” including digital and computer radiographs, dental radiography, in-house chemistry and haematology analysers, a Bionet anaesthetic monitor and capnography. • Gold Standard Cat Friendly Accreditation with Fear Free Handling as a priority. • A positive approach to animal care that develops great veterinarian-client relationships as well as professional satisfaction. • Great working conditions and scaled remuneration. • A chance to live in Hawke’s Bay, so you can enjoy your time away from work too. This position is available immediately but we are willing to wait for the right candidate. Send your CV, along with a cover note as to why you think you would be suited for our team, to: Sharon Marshall Director VetsOne Hastings 500 Maraekakaho Road Hastings 4120 Email: sharon@vetsone.co.nz

Mixed animal veterinarian The Rural Service Centre veterinary clinic is a club practice based in Tākaka, Golden Bay. We see a bit of everything and there is scope to focus on dairy or companion animals, so a mixed veterinarian would be preferred. Other than that we are all about flexibility – work part-time or full-time; you could be a new graduate or experienced. Our farms are mostly family owned and operated. You really get to establish relationships, understand their business and motivations, and watch their kids grow up. While there are still all the usual boring jobs to do, we get to see a lot of cool things as well. Because we are a fair dinkum club practice, our pricing is very competitive. Most clients are willing to let you give things a go if you want to. CPD is encouraged and funded and the pay is competitive (including comprehensive health and income protection insurance. You will be supplied with a smartphone, vehicle and equipment. After-hours is generally 1:4, with a half day Friday the following week. Our practice is nestled in between two national parks, with a diverse community, meaning there is always the opportunity to find something to do or some group to belong to. If this sounds like a position or location that you would be interested in, please get in touch with either our Senior Veterinarian Carl Finnigan at carl.finnigan@rsc.co.nz or our General Manager Dave Egan at dave.egan@rsc.co.nz.

TE ATATŪ AND HAMILTON

Companion animal veterinarian

Veterinarians

Due to one of our veterinarians retiring, a position has become available for someone to join our friendly team. We are a privately owned, companion animal only clinic. You will be joining our four other veterinarians, who share the after-hours roster. For a happy work-life balance, we all work less than full-time hours. The position available is for three to five days per week along with 1:4 weekends. There is the possibility that more days of work per week become available; you may also be able to negotiate working more days. The clinic has digital X-ray, ultrasound, dentistry and in-house blood analysis facilities. The caseload is predominantly cats and dogs, with a small number of natives and exotics. Our ideal candidate will be a competent, confident, selfmotivated team player. Client satisfaction is very important to us. You will have a keen interest in medicine and surgery. A good sense of humour is a must. Outside of work, Rotorua offers numerous recreation activities including fishing, tramping, mountain biking and handy access to fantastic beaches and is close to the Central Plateau ski fields. Applicants of all levels of experience will be considered and remuneration will be commensurate with ability. Please send applications, including your CV, to the Practice Manager at admin@ccvets.co.nz.

Exciting opportunities for veterinarians to join our fantastic teams on a full-time or part-time basis! • Competitive remuneration. • A real focus on personal development – grow your career with us. • Non-corporate family workplace culture – join the CareVets family.

NORTHLAND Mixed animal veterinarian YourVet is a rapidly growing, independent, mixed animal practice situated in beautiful Bream Bay – an area renowned for having some of the best coastal locations in New Zealand (and the world) including Langs Beach, Waipū Cove, Ruakākā and One Tree Point. If you want to live a Northland coastal lifestyle while working in a progressive veterinary practice, then this is your opportunity! Come and work in a place that most people only get to visit on holiday. We are only two hours (and decreasing) north of Auckland. You will become the fifth veterinarian in our experienced team. This position requires a motivated person to assist in the continued growth of our practice. This is a mixed role suited to someone interested in working with both farm and companion animals – though any applicant with a small or large animal preference will be considered. Our purpose-built clinic is located on State Highway One, giving us a high profile and giving our clients easy access. We offer a wide range of high-quality services to production, equine and companion animals and their owners. Our clinic houses an excellent range of equipment including digital X-ray, in-house laboratory, full dental cart, orthopaedic equipment including tibial tuberosity advancement, small and large animal ultrasound and a new equine facility. An equipped 4x4 vehicle, laptop and mobile phone will be provided as part of an attractive salary package. To apply contact: Mike Macartney Phone: 027 432 0500 Email: mike@yourvet.co.nz Mark Borich Phone: 021 513 808 Email: mark@yourvet.co.nz

About the roles As a qualified veterinarian you already have a pretty good idea as to the day-to-day requirements of being a great member of the dynamic team behind any great clinic. Here are just a few of the key responsibilities that you will be contributing to together with the rest of our team: • Client consultations. • Hands-on small animal surgery and diagnostics. • Working collaboratively with your colleagues on patient cases. We have current vacancies in particular at our CareVets Te Atatū, Hamilton and Napier clinics; however, we are always on the lookout for talent. These roles are flexible and can be full- or parttime for the right candidates.

Classifieds | Situations vacant

ROTORUA

About you • You genuinely care for pets, your colleagues and our clients. • You work well in a team and independently. • You have a high level of integrity and are interested in continued development. • You hold relevant qualifications and preferably have experience as a practising veterinarian. What’s on offer? • Generous remuneration, commensurate with experience. • Strong focus on personal development with an ongoing focus on your career interests. • Non-corporate family workplace culture – become a member of the CareVets family. • Fantastic locations across the North Island. • Work-life balance is important to us, so hours are geared with this in mind. • Dynamic and supportive clinic team along with a responsive leadership team. • Access to a wide network of like-minded colleagues across the North Island (and the opportunities that come with such a network). About us CareVets is proudly New Zealand owned and operated, providing the best possible care for our clients and their pets. We pride ourselves on being one big family. We have a great, diverse team of veterinarians and veterinary nurses spanning the North Island. We encourage continued training for all our staff, with personal development being a significant focus in all roles across the business. CareVets clinics and staff are all supported by a small leadership team of industryexperienced professionals. At CareVets we care. With the CareVets Foundation we continue to give back. We’re proud to say that 100% of all donations received goes straight back out to our local communities. Learn more by visiting: http://carevets.co.nz/carevetscharitable-foundation-trust. Still here? Great! Whether you are seeking a change, a step up or a relocation we’d love for you to get in touch. Please apply by sending your CV and a cover letter detailing why you believe you are our ideal candidate to Nick Cooper: nick.cooper@carevets.co.nz. Any applicants who are shortlisted will be contacted directly.

VetScript February/March 2021

News and views

Classifieds | Situations vacant

In short

RANFURLY

CROMWELL

AUCKLAND Equine veterinarian

Mixed animal veterinarian

Our Ranfurly clinic is looking for an experienced mixed animal veterinarian with an interest in small animals. Your work will span the range of general practice tasks a small, rural clinic undertakes including consultations, clinical diagnosis, farm service work, surgery and listening. Ranfurly is a friendly, small-town community with a relaxed lifestyle, nestled in the heart of Central Otago. We are a small team with a diverse and loyal client base who span sheep, beef and deer farms, lifestyle, companion animals and small animal work, including working dog orthopaedics. As a team we enjoy pitching in together to go the extra mile for our clients. We are proactive with animal health planning and we are proud of our reputation in the community. Our clients are exceptional. They trust us to do our best for them and their animals and we work hard to support them and each other. Although we are small, we punch above our weight with our clinical resources. We are equipped with a digital X-ray machine, in-house biochemistry and electrolyte analyser, and in-house OssAbility tibial tuberosity advancement surgical equipment. Surrounded by mountains, lakes and rivers, the Maniototo district boasts exceptional fishing, mountain biking, skiing, tramping and water sports. We share after-hours rosters, so our staff can enjoy life off the clock exploring our stunning region and further afield. VetEnt is united by our passion for animal care. Our strength is the array of career advancement opportunities we can provide including training, support, fully funded CPD, clinic exchanges, leadership roles and involvement in subsidiary operations such as StockCare, VetEnt Research and PureMilk. You would have superb mentoring and support at your fingertips from Ranfurly veterinarians David Dodd and Becks Smith, who have more than 40 years’ combined experience, as well as from further afield. What’s not to like? For a confidential conversation call our Lead Veterinarian, Becks Smith, on 027 303 4844, or alternatively email careers@vetent.co.nz.

Our Cromwell clinic is on the hunt for an experienced mixed animal veterinarian who enjoys working with companion animals. You will be comfortable doing all the things you’d expect in a general practice, such as consultations, clinical diagnosis, farm service work and surgery. You will be someone who can look after our clients while taking care of their animals. For the right candidate, this could be a leadership role. It’s definitely a role that will allow you to do your best veterinary work. We are based in Cromwell in the heart of Central Otago, so you’ll be able to make the most of your life off the clock. All the scenery and outdoor sports that the South Island is famous for are outside your door. You’ll also have the opportunity to work with our teams in other Central Otago clinics in Alexandra, Cromwell, Wānaka, Queenstown and Ranfurly. While you can expect some on-call work for emergencies, we’re fair and reasonable about it and we work hard to give our people that all-important work-life balance. In return you’ll find an array of career advancement opportunities including training support, CPD, clinic exchanges and involvement in our subsidiary operations such as FarmCare, VetEnt Research and PureMilk. VetEnt is one of New Zealand’s largest veterinary groups, and we’re all united by our passion for animal care. You will have access to the latest technology in a well-equipped practice. You will benefit from our network of supportive and collaborative veterinarians and support structures across the country, while being supported to grow your own part of the business. If all this sounds like you and you have the skills and experience we are looking for and meet the requirements of VCNZ, then we’d love to hear from you. Has your time come? Our South Island human resources business partner can tell you more about this role. Either call Jane Stumbles on 027 570 1383 or email her at jane.stumbles@ vetent.co.nz, or just leap in and send your CV and covering letter to careers@vetent.co.nz.

VetScript February/March 2021

Vets North has an exceptional opportunity for an experienced equine veterinarian to join the team. The practice is predominantly a first-option ambulatory sport horse practice with the occasional racehorse thrown in. The role offers a great workload and plenty of variety. If you want to work closer to home in a progressive practice with all the toys then this may be the role for you in 2021. Vets North operates clinics in Kumeu, Waimauku, Helensville and Silverdale with a loyal and growing client base. We are focused on building strong teams and ensuring staff are valued and enjoy their work environment. Our team is passionate about helping animals and our community. We offer an extensive range of services and have all the up-to-date equipment you could need including a: • MyLab ultrasound scanner • digital radiography X-ray • video endoscope • gastroscope. This role is full-time. On-call work is shared for weekends and weeknights, with ample time in lieu. We are looking for someone with a: • good range of surgical skills and knowledge • high standard of work and quality of care • confident, calm style who easily forms relationships with colleagues and clients. What’s in it for you Our ideal candidate will offer highquality veterinary care. They should be an excellent communicator who can give clients great service, options and value, while working efficiently as part of our friendly, dedicated team. Salary will be competitive according to experience and there may be an opportunity for succession offered to the right person. We want our veterinarians to follow their passions so CPD and special interest are encouraged and funded. In addition we will pay for all NZVA and VCNZ registrations. Our veterinary team meets regularly and we encourage collegial collaboration. We are accepting applications and are ready to have confidential conversations now. Relocation candidates are encouraged to apply. We will wait for you! Call Tricia on 027 252 2117 for a chat or email tricia@stsgroupnz.com. Apply now to get underway. Full job details are available online at www.livehire.com/job/stsgroup/ E4XCJ.

CHRISTCHURCH

ASHBURTON

Full-time veterinarian Position available from March/April 2021. A full-time position has become available for a veterinarian in our companion animal practices situated in Karori and Island Bay. We are members of the Wellington After Hours Veterinary Clinic. We are seeking applicants with two or more years’ experience who are enthusiastic, self-motivated and dedicated to providing excellent animal care. We are committed to providing a high standard in all areas of our surgical and medical services and take pride in our excellent client service. The clinic offers digital X-ray and ultrasound services, along with dentistry and in-house laboratory equipment. Our clinics offer a friendly, professional environment with a dedicated team of support staff. Please contact: Glenn Armstrong Email: glenn@karorivet.co.nz Phone: 04 476 3555

CHRISTCHURCH Belfast Veterinary Clinic Mixed or companion animal veterinarian A full-time, predominantly companion animal but also mixed position has become available at the Belfast Veterinary Clinic for a new or experienced veterinarian. The Belfast Veterinary Clinic is a small but well-equipped practice on the northern edge of Christchurch. We offer full companion animal medicine and surgical services, with the large animal portion comprising mainly lifestyle block and pleasure horse work. Full backing and clinical support will be available for less experienced applicants. Small animal after-hours is supplied by the Christchurch After Hours Veterinary Centre. The large animal after-hours roster is 1:6. If desired, a part-time position would be considered with hours by negotiation. If you are interested, please contact Steve Lucas on 03 323 7400 or 027 434 7361. Or send your CV to steve@belfastvetclinic.com.

Companion animal veterinarian – Maternity leave cover

Permanent, experienced companion animal veterinarian

A position for an experienced companion animal veterinarian has become available due to maternity leave. The hours are 30+ per week and weekend work is shared. McMaster & Heap Veterinary Practice started in 1999 and employs nine veterinarians and 21 veterinary nurses. We are a very capable, compassionate, hard-working team of veterinarians who collaborate on cases, are proud of our work, respect the work of our colleagues and are driven to help other people and pets. We also offer referral services in ophthalmology, ultrasonography, chemotherapy, endoscopy and surgery (orthopaedic and soft tissue). We see a lot of cases from all over the South Island. We have just built a gorgeous addition to our existing practice, which allows us to see and treat cat and dog patients in separate areas of our hospital – plus a lot more.

Exceptional facilities. Inclusive team. We want to welcome you to our team. We practice to a high standard, we trust and respect each other and we have fun. Work under your own schedule. Choose your own way. Enjoy work-life balance. Embrace the clients and the pets, who can present great clinical challenges that will continually reward you. Enjoy working with the best veterinarians and veterinary nurses ever. Enjoy a positive and inclusive culture. Our clinic is modern and well equipped, with an IDEXX in-house laboratory included. We have a Mindray ultrasound is on its way. We share after-hours so every other week is free. Yes, we work hard, but we also reward and respect that hard work. Ashburton is an hour’s drive from Christchurch and has an international airport. It provides great cosmopolitan dining, entertainment and shopping. It is family-friendly with several great schools and affordable houses. Riverside is a family friendly clinic. Explore and enjoy our ski fields, lakes, rivers and the great outdoors. Settle down and enjoy the lifestyle you deserve. VetEnt is united by our passion for animal care. Our strength is the array of career advancement opportunities we can provide including training, support, fully funded CPD including membership training for the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists, clinic exchanges and leadership roles. You would have support at your fingertips from our Canterbury team, as well as from veterinarians across our national clinics. A four-bedroom furnished home with wi-fi is available for one month after employment begins. Relocation expenses and remuneration can be discussed. What’s not to like? Let us tell you more. Call Ian Hodge anytime on 027 433 9566 for a confidential conversation, or email him at ian.hodge@vetent.co.nz.

We will: • surround you with a supportive, passionate, highly skilled team of veterinarians and veterinary nurses who really care • provide you with a beautiful veterinary environment with all the necessary and high-tech equipment to do an awesome job • care about your physical and emotional wellbeing and job satisfaction • encourage you to upskill in an area of your choice • ensure no after-hours work • not micromanage you • not analyse your sales and financial performance. You will: • have a great work ethic, be motivated and be prepared to do the best for our clients and patients in your care • thrive in a team environment • have excellent people, written and oral communication skills • have a strong customer service ethic • have access to a huge amount of in-house veterinary knowledge and expertise • be a fit and active person • be replacing a colleague who does a lot of dentistry work currently. An interest in dentistry would be helpful but not essential. Please forward any enquiries to Michele McMaster and Steve Heap at s.m.heap@xtra.co.nz. We would encourage you to check out our website for more information on us and what we are doing.

VetScript February/March 2021

Classifieds | Situations vacant

WELLINGTON

News and views

Classifieds | Situations vacant | Marketplace

In short

AUCKLAND Small animal veterinarian Vets North has an exceptional opportunity for an experienced small animal veterinarian to join the team. If you are passionate about helping animals and your community and are looking for career advancement in a progressive practice with all the toys then this may be the role for you in 2021. Vets North operates clinics in Kumeu, Waimauku, Helensville and Silverdale with a loyal and growing client base. We employ 15 veterinarians. We are focused on building strong teams and ensuring staff are valued and enjoy their work environment. Our team is passionate about helping animals and our community. We offer an extensive range of services and have all the up-todate equipment you could need including: • endoscopy • LigaSure • arthroscopy • digital radiography. For the more challenging cases, we work closely with a consultant orthopaedic surgeon and ultrasonographer. Our clinics are equipped with all the best technology and equipment. This role is full-time; however no after-hours work is required. You will contribute to the Saturday roster with a day in lieu given for weekend work to balance work and life. We are looking for someone with a: • good range of surgical skills and knowledge • high standard of work and quality of care • confident, calm style who easily forms relationships with colleagues and clients • number of years’ experience under their belt or a new graduate starting out in their career • great attitude and personality plus • strong team work ability and genuine desire to lead our teams. What’s in it for you Our ideal candidate will offer high-quality veterinary care. They should be an excellent communicator who can give clients great service, options and value, while working efficiently as part of our friendly, dedicated team. Salary will be competitive according to experience and there may be an opportunity for succession offered to the right person. We want our veterinarians to follow their passions so CPD and special interest are encouraged and funded. In addition we will pay for all NZVA and VCNZ registrations. Our veterinary team meets regularly and we encourage collegial collaboration. We are accepting applications and are ready to have confidential conversations now. Relocation candidates are encouraged to apply. We will wait for you! Call Tricia on 027 252 2117 for a chat or email tricia@stsgroupnz.com. Apply now to get underway. Full job details are available online at www.livehire.com/job/ stsgroup/BNFXQ.

MARKETPLACE

VetScript February/March 2021

FOR SALE Fibreglass cages Currently installed in more than 300 practices nationwide, our cages are clean, warm and visually appealing in a range of colours with all stainless steel fittings. Jim Grayson Email: jim.l.grayson@gmail.com www.creaturecomfortcages.co.nz

PRACTICE FOR SALE Christchurch practice for sale We are seeking interest in an impressive practice that is for sale in Christchurch on behalf of our client. The practice has a rich history and the current owner is seeking retirement after more than 37 years in practice. It is proposed to be sold as a going concern and an appropriate transition period is available with the vendor. The present owner has been working reduced hours and supplementing this by hiring more staff. A motivated purchaser may choose to absorb some of these hours themselves or enjoy a more passive income style. The practice is well established and offers a wide variety of services to its mostly family pet clients. Current open days are Monday to Friday and half day Saturday. In terms of key numbers, annual accounts have been prepared and management numbers are available. The vendors appreciate any business’s true value is relative to what a willing purchaser and a willing seller can mutually agree upon. The clinic enjoys a strong Owners Discretionary Cashflow and Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortisation (EBITDA). Plant and equipment has had an independent valuation done approximately a year ago. This can be updated if desired. A full information memorandum will be provided following signing a non-disclosure agreement and a basic validation process discussion. We welcome any general enquiries also. Enquiries should be directed in the first instance to: Martz Witty Shi Martz Chartered Accountants PO Box 13-010 Armagh Christchurch 8141 Phone: 0800 389 0777 Email: martz@martz.co.nz

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THAT WORKS WITH YOUR VET CLINIC As a veterinarian, you’re more than just a business: you’re a core part of your community. You support people and their pets to be happy, healthy and fulﬁlled. Your digital clinic should reﬂect that too. It all starts with a really good website – and we’re just the people to help you out with that. Storbie gives you the head start you need to start selling, connecting and succeeding online. You don’t need big business resources to have a world-class digital presence.

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Storbie Veterinary Clinic Websites for NZVA members

$995 + $125 +

ecommerce solutions for community Vet Clinics. Supplier managed images and descriptions updated

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SECOND CHANCE

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Complete the revers e and place in entry box, or enter online.

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Make sure you participate in our massive nationwide scratch card campaign. Call your Boehringer Ingelheim Territory Manager today for details. This promotion runs while stocks of scratch cards last or to 30 April 2021 if earlier. T&Cs apply, see full T&Cs at www.thebigscratchback.co.nz. Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health New Zealand Limited. Level 3, 2 Osterley Way, Manukau, Auckland, New Zealand. NEXGARD®, NEXGARD SPECTRA®, BROADLINE®, FRONTLINE® are registered trademarks of the Boehringer Ingelheim Group. Registered pursuant to the ACVM Act. 1997 I Nos. A011040, A011184, A010901, A009008, A009009 I ©Copyright 2020 Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health New Zealand Limited. All rights reserved. NZ-PET-0145-2020