VetScript October 2020

nzva.org.nz

PETS AND OWNERS – status report

MAKING A DIFFERENCE in uncertain times

NEWS AND VIEWS

NICOLA WICHTEL The mixed animal veterinarian giving kiwi a helping hand

T H E O F F I C I A L M AG A Z I N E O F T H E N E W Z E A L A N D V E T E R I N A RY A S S O C I AT I O N • O C TO B E R 2 02 0

Cooperating on

CATARACTS The benefits of working collaboratively with colleagues

VetScript October 2020 – i

Companion Animal

Complementary Veterinary Medicine

Dairy Cattle

Deer

Equine

Food Safety, Animal Welfare and Biosecurity

Sheep and Beef Cattle

Veterinary Business and Industry

Companion Animal Veterinary Nursing

Equine Veterinary Nursing New Zealand Veterinary Association (NZVA) Conference

New Zealand Veterinary Nursing Association (NZVNA) Conference

Date and location to be advised – due to unforeseen venue unavailability.

Date and location to be advised – due to unforeseen venue unavailability.

Veterinary Business

Wellbeing Wildlife Epidemiology and Animal Health Management

NZVA workshops will be offered post-conference.

For more information: www.nzva.org.nz T +64 4 471 0484 E vetlearn@vets.org.nz

NEWS CONTENTS AND VIEWS

EDITORIAL 2 Mirjam Guesgen, VetScript Editor NEWS AND VIEWS 4 Grant McCullough, NZVA President 6 News 10 Feedback on your feedback 12 Get puzzling with a crossword 13 Global lab – check out what’s happening in veterinary schools around the world 14 Massey research update 16 Animal welfare and ethics update 18 Seton Butler, VCNZ

20

PROFILE 20 Meet kiwi-loving, mixed animal veterinarian Nicola Wichtel OUT THERE VETTING 24 Making a difference in uncertain times IN THE CLINIC 28 Pets and owners – status report

CASE STUDY

IN THE LAB

34 Cooperating on cataracts

52 When can I check for…?

ONE HEALTH 40 A groundbreaking system for all IN THE WORKPLACE 46 Make your own success

54 Liver enzymes and bile acids – what do they tell us?

VETLEARN 56 Take a look at the exciting opportunities for professional development

50 What if the worst were to happen?

60 CLASSIFIEDS

14

24

40

VetScript October 2020 – 1

EDITORIAL

www.nzva.org.nz

VetScript OCTOBER 2020 • VOL 33 • NO 9 ISSN 1170-280X COVER IMAGE Cooperating on cataracts (IMAGE: NICK AND KIRSTY MIDDLETON )

VetScript is published monthly (except January) by the New Zealand Veterinary Association (NZVA) as a service to its members.

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Bette Flagler M: 021 956 122 E: bette.flagler@vets.org.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 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.

2 – VetScript October 2020

Decisions, decisions VetScript Editor Mirjam Guesgen discusses new arrivals and new directions, and decision-making inbetween.

IF NOTHING ELSE, 2020 has been a lesson in taking things as they come.

Focusing on the day-to-day.

There was a time in late March, early April, when I was trying to get my fiancé to New Zealand as our borders were slowly closing. We booked flights. Cancelled them. Called Immigration New Zealand. Waited. Put flights on hold again. Let the hold fall through. It was a daily mental exercise in crystal-ball gazing. We tried not to get our hopes up but inevitably did, only to have them dashed.

Slowly, as the Government developed systems for processing exemption applications, we made progress. He’s here now, on the work permit he was granted in the ‘before times’, and thankful to be in a country where daily life is closer to what we’re used to than it is almost anywhere else in the world.

It wasn’t until we made the conscious decision not to do anything that our plans worked out. A certain amount of faith comes with that, but there’s also a realisation that you can only make decisions based on the information you have available at the time.

The COVID-19 pandemic has certainly shown the importance of information in decision-making, as well as the need to change the way you do things based on the most up-to-date information. Until recently we thought masks weren’t necessary; now they’re mandatory on public transport. We didn’t think young people could be as affected by the virus as the elderly; now we’re seeing ‘long-haulers’ – people who live for months with relentless waves of COVID-19 symptoms. There were murmurings that the disease was a oneand-done infection; now we’ve seen the first cases of reinfection.

Evidence-based approaches don’t just apply to science and pandemics.

They’re also a concept the VetScript editorial team applies to what and how we publish the magazine. In June you had the chance to review the magazine and let us know what you love and what you’d rather do without. Thanks for the feedback! You can see how your views fit with those of other readers on page 10. The information will help shape the VetScript of the future.

Also this month you’ll meet Nicola Wichtel, a mixed animal veterinarian who’s discovered a love for helping kiwi (the birds, not the people). Her daily commute through three scenic reserves, home to some 200-odd North Island brown kiwi, got her thinking about ways to support local predator-trapping and kiwi-monitoring efforts. She’s now in the process of upskilling on kiwi handling, health checks and treatment in preparation for a role as the ‘go-to’ person for injured birds in her area.

Also in this issue, Naomi Arnold shares the journey of New Zealand company Techion, which is taking its parasite diagnostic tool from our farms to underdeveloped countries around the world. The tool was originally intended to count parasites in animal samples, but the company is now discovering its value to human health.

Thanks for reading.

Mirjam Guesgen, Editor, VetScript

NEWS AND VIEWS

Letter A MOVE FOR THE BETTER? I am not sure if anyone is left of my age and membership of 70 years but I would like to take you back as current members to 1975–84, during my time as a member of the NZVA council.

The NZVA was well served in those days by a secretary, LJ (Tommy) Thompson, an accountant in Hamilton. Some of us on council put our necks out and suggested a shift to Wellington so that the NZVA could be noticed by Government. This was unpopular with members but we persisted and achieved our goal in 1980. The whole object of the exercise was to get the NZVA more in tune with Government.

I am on the outside now and cannot know if we achieved our objective but, at this distance, it seems like the press refers to SPCA and the Government refers in-house, rather than to the NZVA, when consulting and forming opinions.

Two cases stand out. One is the debate on shock dog collars, which SPCA refused to answer. Animal welfare is a function of the NZVA yet it was not called on by the media. The second is the outbreak of Listeria in the Bay of Plenty, which was undoubtedly caused by unpasteurised milk in cheeses. This was answered by Agriculture Minister Damien O’Connor – no consultation with the NZVA. Such issues should go straight to our President, who, if they can’t answer, would nominate someone who will. I believe our annual conference should always invite the Minister of Agriculture for a short visit, as we used to (see page 139 of my book Vets on the Go). This after all was our vision when shifting from Hamilton to Wellington in 1980.

I hope I am not correct in the possibility that we have not really achieved today what we started in 1980.

Graham Wallace, Auckland Response from the NZVA: Thank you for taking the time to write to the association regarding our advocacy and media relations work.

Unfortunately some of the incredible work that goes on is largely invisible to members. This is because advocacy is a long game that involves many hours spent in meetings with a range of stakeholders, including but not limited to the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), DairyNZ, Beef + Lamb New Zealand, Federated Farmers, VCNZ, SPCA, Companion Animals New Zealand, the New Zealand Companion Animal Trust, Dogs NZ, and the Greyhound and rodeo animal welfare committees.

It also involves letters to and meetings with ministers of the Crown and meetings with a range of government officials and other non-governmental organisation personnel. Having the association based in Wellington has made it much easier for relationship-building purposes and cost effectiveness. To give you a flavour of the work underway, here are three examples of the NZVA stepping in on behalf of members: TAIL DOCKING IN DOGS Our input helped to map a pathway to legislation that made this practice illegal and removed any ethical discomfort for veterinarians when approached to perform the procedure.

CRITICAL SHORTAGE OF OVERSEAS VETERINARIANS The NZVA has picked up the role of advocating jointly with MPI, VCNZ and Massey University to the Minister of Agriculture and government officials on the issue of streamlining and speeding up the process of bringing veterinarians into the country in the face of the chronic veterinary shortages exacerbated by the current border restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

MEDIA RELATIONS The NZVA is frequently asked to comment on issues concerning animals, animal welfare and primary production. During the COVID-19 lockdown we answered five to 10 media enquiries each day. The NZVA Chief Veterinary Officer and CEO have recently done some high profile television interviews regarding live exports and the shortage of veterinarians due to border restrictions.

Kevin Bryant, NZVA CEO

DAYS OF NOTE 5 OCTOBER WORLD HABITAT DAY 10 OCTOBER WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY 15 OCTOBER INTERNATIONAL DAY OF RURAL WOMEN 23 OCTOBER HAWKE’S BAY ANNIVERSARY DAY 26 OCTOBER LABOUR DAY

CORRECTION On page 51 of the September issue we incorrectly stated that “The other four PI calves tested positive for serum antibodyELISA on day 100, and three of the four also tested positive for antibody by antigen-ELISA at this time...”. This should read: “The other four PI calves tested positive for serum antigen-ELISA on day 100, and three of the four also tested positive for antibody by antibody-ELISA at this time...”.

We apologise for the error.

VetScript Deadlines for December 2020 issue EDITORIAL COPY 20 October DISPLAY AND CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING 1 November LATE CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING 20 November Contact the editor at: vetscript@vets.org.nz

VetScript October 2020 – 3

NEWS AND VIEWS

Progress on the AMR issue NZVA President Grant McCullough reports on progress in reducing the use of antimicrobial drugs in the veterinary profession.

IN THE PAST decade the use of antimicrobial drugs has continued to rise around the world, and the threat of widespread antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has been increasingly highlighted in critical reports, including one by economist Jim O’Neill, who forecasts more than 10 million deaths and more than $100 trillion global cost by 2050 if we all continue on the same trajectory.

Internationally there’s been an intense focus on ensuring the prudent use of antimicrobials.

Unsurprisingly, this has generated some concern that the privilege of having access to a wide variety of antimicrobials could be altered or restricted.

In June 2015 the NZVA took a leadership position and issued a statement that “by 2030, New Zealand Inc will not need antibiotics for the maintenance of animal health and wellness”. When we issued it, New Zealand as a country was the world’s third-lowest user of antimicrobials in animals (Hillerton et al., 2017).

We believe our 2015 statement has helped create a change in the way veterinarians use antimicrobials.

The NZVA’s Antimicrobial Resistance Committee (AMRC) has noted that antimicrobial use stopped rising annually after that, and currently unpublished data indicates its use has been relatively flat for the past four years.

The NZVA, via the AMRC, has been active on the issue, and there have been other developments too: » We’ve worked with a range of organisations (the Ministry of Health, the Ministry for Primary Industries [MPI], industry, levy groups and NZVA special interest branches) to reduce antimicrobial use in animals. This is helping, but it’s not an easy process. » We’ve created a traffic-light classification system for antimicrobials (available from www.nzva. org.nz/general/custom.asp?page=amr) and also recently made some adjustments to clarify its message. As is the case for all other antimicrobials, the use of red light antimicrobials should be carefully considered and justified. This may mean they’re still a veterinarian’s first choice, which is in some instances appropriate.

4 – VetScript October 2020

» We’re seeing positive behaviour changes in the dairy cow industry, with veterinarians and farmers moving away from a blanket use of dry-cow antimicrobial therapy towards a more targeted use, and a wider use of teat-sealant products (see www. nzva.org.nz/resource/resmgr/docs/policies_ and_guidelines/guide_dairy.pdf). » We’re working with appropriate groups in the poultry industry to help decrease the metaphylactic use of antimicrobials, particularly zinc bacitracin. » The wider industry now has a greater focus on research and development geared towards preventive products and vaccines. » MPI’s Agricultural Compounds and Veterinary Medicines group has included a ‘no advertising to end users’ condition on all antimicrobials. » We’re actively communicating with the public on antimicrobial use in animals, in line with our AMRC strategy. As part of this, we publicly promote World Antibiotic Awareness Week every year. » We’ve developed educational material for the public (see www.nzva.org.nz/page/ amrresource) to help veterinarians’ clients understand the problems of over-using antimicrobials in animals.

The NZVA’s aspirational goal for 2030 is not geared towards zero use of antimicrobial drugs. We acknowledge that we can reduce use, but equally we want to develop a sustainable position where our ability to use appropriate antibiotics for treatment is not curtailed by either resistance or regulation.

We ask all practising veterinarians to help us reduce the use of antimicrobials. Reduced use will benefit us all.

Grant McCullough, NZVA President grant.mccullough@vets.org.nz REFERENCE: Hillerton JE, Irvine CR, Bryan MA, Scott D, Merchant SC. Use of antimicrobials for animals in New Zealand, and in comparison with other countries. New Zealand Veterinary Journal 65(2), 2017

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NEWS AND VIEWS

NZVA IN ACTION

STAY VIGILANT

The NZVA represented the membership in the following ways this past month.

A reminder that clinics can reduce the risk of COVID-19 by:

» The NZVA President, CEO and Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO) attended a workshop on COVID-19 and veterinary capacity, to brainstorm short- and longterm solutions to the shortage of veterinary professionals. The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), Massey University and VCNZ also attended.

» increasing vigilance in cleaning, disinfecting and hand-washing

» The NZVA Veterinary Manager (Companion Animals), CVO, CEO and Communications Manager met to plan the next steps in developing a communications strategy for restricted veterinary medicines. » The NZVA CVO attended the COVID-19/Drought Operation Governance Working Group meeting to discuss issues arising from COVID-19 and this year’s drought. This is an MPI-led cross-industry group. » The monthly catch-up between the NZVA CEO and CVO and VCNZ took place so that the organisations could share information. » The NZVA President, CEO and CVO met with other members of the NZVA, MPI, VCNZ and Massey University as part of their monthly meetings to share information. » The NZVA CVO attended the Animal Behaviour and Welfare Consultative Committee meeting, at which new topics in animal welfare and behaviour were discussed. This is an NZVA-chaired, cross-sector committee. » The NZVA CVO and other stakeholders, including practising veterinarians, continue to review the VCNZ Code of Professional Conduct (the animal welfare section) as part of the VCNZ’s Professional Standards Committee. n

» wearing face masks and encouraging your clients to do so as well » limiting the number of people accompanying an animal into a clinic to one healthy adult » ensuring you can contact-trace everyone who enters the clinic (for example using the COVID-19 QR code) » keeping staff who can work from home, or are in a high-risk category, at home » adjusting the clinic layout to encourage physical distancing as much as possible » using contactless payment methods » delaying non-essential meetings and conducting essential meetings via teleconference.

The key message for Alert Level 2 is that the full range of veterinary services can be offered, with increased scrutiny of cleaning and disinfection, and communication with clients about the national public health expectations.

Wearing face masks is only one part of the strategy for reducing the spread of COVID-19. The NZVA’s recommendation for people under Alert Level 2 is that you and your clients wear masks when maintaining physical distancing is difficult, for example in the consultation room.

You can find more information on the NZVA’s COVID-19 page at www.nzva.org.nz/page/covid.

For general COVID-19 information, visit covid19.govt.nz. n

6 – VetScript October 2020

NEWS AND VIEWS

THINK GREEN, ACT GREEN VetScript is launching a new mini-section in the news pages, called Eco Initiative. It’s a chance for practices and veterinary organisations to share the practical things they’re doing to minimise waste or help the environment. You might remember we ran a feature on sustainable veterinary practices in the December 2019 issue, but we think eco-friendly work should be celebrated year-round! Let us know what you’re up to by contacting the Editor at vetscript@vets.org.nz.

ECO INITIATIVE

DOUBLE ONEHEALTH WIN ZOETIS, TOGETHER WITH Predator Free New Zealand and humane trapping company Goodnature, is encouraging Kiwi farmers to implement predator control plans – not only to protect New Zealand’s native taonga but also to prevent the spread of pest-borne diseases such as leptospirosis.

In 2019 they made more than 300 predator control packs for farmers, each containing: rodent detector cards (which

help define the best places to trap and which pests are present); an A2-sized best-practice-vaccination calendar; an informational booklet on zoonotic diseases; and a high-quality personal protective apron that the farmer can use in the shed to minimise leptospirosis exposure. The packs were dispersed to veterinary clinics around the country.

The project has continued this year, with Zoetis and Goodnature working with selected farmers and veterinarians

to set up a comprehensive on-farm trapping network as a part of a broader leptospirosis risk management plan.

With the support of veterinarians and farmers, Zoetis and Goodnature hope to make a real, positive contribution towards achieving Predator Free New Zealand’s goal of eradicating all marsupial and mammalian introduced predators from New Zealand by 2050, as well as help stop the spread of New Zealand’s number one occupational disease, leptospirosis. n

LAST CHANCE FOR THE VIRTUAL CONGRESS! IT’S NOT TOO late to view more than 100 hours of recorded CPD from more than 50 speakers around the world!

Presentations from this year’s World Veterinary Association virtual congress are available online, covering everything from companion animals, dairy and beef cattle, deer, equine and sheep to veterinary business and veterinary public health.

In addition, the Global One Health Summit, Welfare of Equine and Donkeys panel and COVID-19 panel sessions are all available free to veterinary professionals.

NZVA members who registered for the World Veterinary Association virtual congress can watch the recordings from the event until 25 October. It’s also not too late to register! n

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To view, visit www.thewebinarvet. com/course/wvac-2020-veterinaryprofessionals-of-the-world-unite.

To register, go to https://wvac2020. thewebinarvet.com/tickets.

VetScript October 2020 – 7

NEWS AND VIEWS

APPLICATIONS FOR PET PROJECTS CLOSING SOON HEALTHY PETS NEW Zealand has a number of grants available to veterinarians as well as veterinary science and social science researchers seeking to undertake studies to help advance companion animal health and welfare in New Zealand. Applications close on 1 November.

Healthy Pets New Zealand is a charity supported by the NZVA. Its objectives are to: » increase the scientific body of knowledge to support improved care, and new diagnostic investigation and treatment options for pets in New Zealand » support research into the value of pets to society, including the human-pet bond » communicate its important findings to the public.

The Research in Practice Grant provides funding for companion animal practice professionals including (but not limited to) veterinarians, veterinary nurses and technicians for projects that meet the organisation’s objectives. Successful applicants may carry out their projects either inside or outside a clinical setting. Project design and supervision is available.

The Human-Pet Bond Grant is open to suitably qualified applicants who wish to research the human-animal bond.

Projects that tackle significant issues facing New Zealand companion animals will be viewed favourably. These include the benefits of companion animals to families, the management of companion animals when family circumstances change and the management of companion cats.

The Discretionary Grant is for projects that meet Healthy Pets New Zealand’s objectives but don’t meet the criteria of the other two grants.

To find out more, visit www.healthypets.org.nz/ research/apply. n

To report suspected exotic land, freshwater and marine pests, or exotic diseases in plants or animals, call:

0800 80 99 66

Wings to the rescue Researchers are developing new antibacterial surfaces based on the microscopic patterns found on cicada and dragonfly wings. A review published in Nature Reviews Microbiology outlines how those patterns destroy bacteria.

CICADA AND DRAGONFLY wings are covered in nanopillars (tiny, column-like structures) that physically damage bacteria that fall on them by stretching, slicing or tearing the bacteria apart. This physical strain ruptures the bacteria’s cell membranes and eventually kills them. The review goes into more detail about the mechanical forces needed to rupture the cell.

This information will help scientists to understand the best (that is, the most lethal) nanopattern shapes and sizes.

“Bacterial resistance to antibiotics is one of the greatest threats to global health, and routine treatments of infection are becoming increasingly difficult,” says one of the study’s authors, Elena Ivanova.

“Our ultimate goal is to develop low-cost and scalable antibacterial surfaces for use in implants and in hospitals, to deliver powerful new weapons in the fight against deadly superbugs.”

Watch the video about the discovery at https://youtu.be/CyIrF5Jbrs8. n

REFERENCE: Linklater DP, Baulin VA, Juodkazis S, Crawford RJ, Stoodley P, Ivanova EP. Mechano-bactericidal actions of nanostructured surfaces. Nature Reviews Microbiology doi: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41579-020-0414-z, 2020

8 – VetScript October 2020

IMAGERY: ISTOCKPHOTO.COM, AMANDA TRAYES, CHRISTOPHER JOHNSON, ALEJANDRO SANTILLANA

NEWS AND VIEWS

TESTING MAMMALS FOR VIRUS HOSTS MORE THAN 100 mammals, including Old World primates, deer, whales and dolphins, are potentially susceptible to infection by the virus responsible for COVID-19 (the SARS-CoV-2 virus).

Researchers have analysed more than 400 vertebrates’ ability to produce the ACE2 protein – a protein on the surface of many types of cells that the SARS-CoV-2 virus can bind to.

More than 100 mammals will have ACE2 proteins and are therefore susceptible. Of those, around 40% of species are classified as ‘threatened’ by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, and may be especially vulnerable to human-to-animal transmission, according to the authors.

The researchers hope that this work will help identify intermediate hosts for SARS-CoV-2 and therefore reduce the opportunity for a future outbreak of COVID-19. n REFERENCE: Damas J, Hughes GM, Keough KC, Painter CA, Persky NS, Corbo M, Hiller M, Koepfli KP, Pfenning AR, Zhao H, et al. Broad host range of SARS-CoV-2 predicted by comparative and structural analysis of ACE2 in vertebrates. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 202010146, 2020

AN UPDATE ON BORDER EXCEPTIONS THE NZVA IS continuing to work with VCNZ, Massey

University, the Ministry for Primary Industries and through the Minister of Immigration, Kris Faafoi, to advocate for allowing a greater number of veterinarians to enter New Zealand amid current border restrictions. This includes making parties aware that the veterinary shortage is a long-term issue. Some exemptions are being made for specialist veterinarians to enter the country. There has been significant media attention regarding this issue in previous weeks and the NZVA is continuing to seek a resolution to this issue. n

PERSONALITY IS A PUSH A study published in PLOS ONE suggests that the popularity of flat-faced (brachycephalic) dogs may remain high as owners develop breed loyalty – and may normalise the breeds’ health problems.

IN A SURVEY of 2,168 owners of brachycephalic breeds (Pugs, French Bulldogs and Bulldogs), 93% were highly likely to want to own their breeds again in the future and 65.5% would recommend their breeds to other owners.

Owners who recommended their breeds mentioned their positive behavioural attributes as companion dogs, that the breeds were suited to sedentary lifestyles with limited space, and the breeds’ suitability for households with children.

Owners who did not recommend their breeds mentioned the high prevalence of health problems, the expense of ownership, the ethical and welfare issues associated with breeding brachycephalic dogs, the negative effects on owner lifestyles and negative behavioural attributes.

In an accompanying press release, the authors state that the results of their study are of “real concern as they indicate that this ‘brachy boom’ is here to stay”.

The authors say understanding how breed loyalty develops will be key to controlling the current boom in the number of brachycephalic dogs. n REFERENCE: Packer RMA, O’Neill DG, Fletcher F, Farnworth MJ. Come for the looks, stay for the personality? A mixed methods investigation of reacquisition and owner recommendation of Bulldogs, French Bulldogs and Pugs. PLOS ONE 15(8), e0237276, 2020

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NEWS AND VIEWS

Feedback on your feedback In June 2020, NZVA members responded to a survey about VetScript. We asked what you thought of it, what you loved and what could be improved. Here’s what you said!

A NOTE FROM NZVA CEO KEVIN BRYANT Thank you to all members who took the time to respond to our VetScript survey. The 15% response rate is considered high for research like this, and we really appreciated all the feedback we received.

Some clear themes emerged that will help the national office make key decisions for the future. For example, we were considering a more inclusive publishing approach that would bring together all our publications. This would have meant that our special interest branch (SIB) publications would have been incorporated into VetScript.

However, following consultation with our Member Advisory Group and the SIBs, we decided to maintain the status quo.

That is, SIB publications will continue to be stand-alone.

A key finding of the survey was that members are open to the NZVA finding ways to save on the costs associated with VetScript. We’ll pick up this and other ideas in our planning for 2021.

You had some great story ideas “A biosecurity section.

‘Did you know?’ with bullet points on notifiable diseases for each species.”

“Technical articles.”

“More clinical case studies.”

“More on veterinary nurses and the educational sector of the profession.”

10 – VetScript October 2020

62% of you see VetScript as very or extremely valuable

It’s a split decision!

50%

of you would like more technical articles and

50%

think we have the balance between technical and general stories just right

73% of you supported having six issues a year instead of

11

You really enjoy some topics… n “Production animal case

studies.”

n

“Anything about veterinary business, clinicians and in-thefield experience or cases.”

n “Scientific articles, what is

happening in the profession, clinic success stories...”

… and others not so much n “The opinion pieces at the start,

news and views, industry stuff.”

n

“The animal welfare section is often too wordy and not very eye-catching.”

n “Articles on minor species…

[There is] too much [of a] focus on wellbeing.”

Some of you want to see the back of… n “NZVA, President and CEO

pages, unless it is very important information.”

n

“Species-specific articles, particularly focused on disease management – these should be covered by the [SIBs].”

n “None I can think of, as

different [sections] appeal to different segments [of the membership].”

NEWS AND VIEWS

Some sections were more popular than others.

More than 80% of you value the veterinary team column

WE SENT ELECTRONIC COPIES OF VETSCRIPT VIA ISSUU DURING THE COVID-19 LOCKDOWN. 60% OF YOU SAID YOU DIDN’T READ THEM

Did read the Issuu versions

President’s column

Didn’t read the Issuu versions Other

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CEO column

Veterinary team column

NEARLY HALF OF YOU SAID IT WOULD BE FINE WITH YOU IF WE MADE VETSCRIPT ELECTRONIC ONLY

Yes! Produce a digital-only VetScript

VetLearn Update section

No, I want the option of a print version Other

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Wellbeing stories 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

1 – low value 3 – medium value 5 – high value

2 – low/medium value 4 – medium/high value

MORE THAN HALF OF YOU (58%) SAID IT WOULD BE FINE TO SEND THREE COPIES TO MEMBER CLINICS, RATHER THAN ONE TO EACH MEMBER.

WE ASKED WHAT YOU THOUGHT ABOUT GETTING VETSCRIPT FREE ONLINE, AND PAYING EXTRA FOR A HARD COPY (IF YOU OPTED FOR THIS)

Yes, great idea No, don’t do it Other

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VetScript October 2020 – 11

AND VIEWS VetScriptNEWS 20.ccw

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1

A pattern of unpigmented patches on a ackground of pigmented hair, feathers or cales. (4)

he secretary stomach in ruminants which acilitates the acid hydrolysis of microbial nd dietary protein. (8)

PUZZLING WORDS ong snouted small mammal that's tricky

Marine mammal of noted intelligence. (7)

3

4

5

6 7

8

9

10 11

12

14

13

15

16

o tame. (5) Here’s another crossword puzzle

to test your knowledge.

Designed A common descriptor for the shape of by UK veterinarian Alan Holford.

Demodex species. (5)

2

17

20

18

19

21

You can find the answers at he largest and most biodiverse tropical www.nzva.org.nz/crossword.

ainforest. (6)

22

23

arge billed colourful bird family of entral and south america. (6)

Across

A vet's dangling tie perhaps. (6)

6 A disorder in dogs in which muscle 11 A region of repetitive nucleotide sequences at spasms are prominent, also known as he force exerted on an object by gravity. the end of each limb of a 6) 17 The force exerted on an hyperkinesia. (6) chromosome. (8) 1 A pattern of unpigmented patches on a background of pigmented hair, feathers or scales. (4)

14 A veterinarian’s dangling tie perhaps. (6)

object by gravity. (6) 11 A region of repetitive nucleotide A subject2 that may often feel 13 Inflammation of the middle The people secretary stomach in 19 A subject that people sequences at the end of each limb ofeyeball a that layer in the facilitates nhibited to ruminants discussthat e.g. addiction, mental may often feel inhibited to consists of the iris, ciliary acid hydrolysis of Down (8) ealth. Thethe profession is striving discuss, to such as addictionchromosome. body and choroid.

(7) microbial and dietary 1 A cell in Bowman’s or mental health.

The educe suchprotein. difficulties.

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(8) when on land and ‘raft’ intelligence.

(7) body and choroid.

(7) etermined by finding the highest dilution 20 The concentration of an when in water. (6) 3 A type of tiger and breed t which it8 isLong-snouted, still ablesmall to cause antibody, as determined 15 Animals described by the collective noun domestic cat. (6) 16 Drooping of the upper thatantigen. is tricky gglutinationmammal of the (5) by finding the highest 'bevy' ofwhen on land and 'raft'eyelid. when (6) in dilution at which it can still to tame. (5) 4 A genus of fly. (5) cause agglutination of thewater. (6) A transmissible spongiform 18 An aquatic bird order that, 9 A common descriptor for antigen. (5) 5 The cells primarily ncephalopathy.

(7)of Demodex instead the shape 16 Drooping of the upper eyelid.

(6) of flying, dives species. (5)

ut up medication. (8)

21 A transmissible spongiform encephalopathy. (7)

responsible for nourishing germ cells as they form spermatozoa. (7)

in response to danger.

can reduce 18 An aquatic bird order which,They instead of their 10 The largest and most buoyancy by pressing flying, dives in response to danger.

They Name the species penguin in the biodiverseof tropical the feathers on their 6 A disorder in dogs in pressing thetheir 22 Put up medication. (8) can reduce their buoyancy by hotograph.rainforest.

(4) (6) undersides against which muscle spasms are bodies, which is why they feathers on their underside against their prominent, also known as 23 The species of penguin in 12 Large-billed, colourful are often seen which is (6) why they are often seenswimming the following photo. (4) body, hyperkinesia. bird family of Central and low in the water. (5) South America. (6) swimming low in the water. (5) he Cell in the Bowman's capsule that wraps around the glomerular capillaries.

12 – VetScript October 2020 8)

NEWS AND VIEWS

GLOBAL LAB Mirjam Guesgen showcases research being conducted at veterinary schools around the world.

ROYAL (DICK) SCHOOL OF VETERINARY STUDIES Researchers at the University of Edinburgh’s Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies created a line of canine mammary cancer cells resistant to radiotherapy and used it to help uncover the mechanisms of that resistance. Radioresistant cells were better at invading and migrating to other cells and transitioning from epithelial to mesenchymal forms (thereby enabling metastasis). The authors also describe similarities in gene expression between the canine radioresistant cell line and the human breast-cancer radioresistant cell lines. They note that the canine model could therefore be used to study human radioresistant mammary cancers and that human treatments may be applicable to veterinary patients. www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2020.00439/full

UNIVERSITY OF NEW SOUTH WALES SYDNEY Culling dingoes through baiting has been linked with an increase in the average size of the canines. A study published in the Biological Journal of the Linnean Society compared the skull size (as a proxy for body size) of dingoes found in baited regions of Australia to those in unbaited regions. After the introduction of 1080 poison, females’ skull size increased by 4.49 millimetres and males’ by 3.6 millimetres, which relates to an increase in body size of 1.02 and 0.86 kilograms respectively. The study’s authors hypothesise that 1080 is selecting for animals with larger body sizes or that a reduced number of dingoes in baited areas may remove constraints on growth from competition for prey. https://academic. oup.com/biolinnean/ article/131/1/220/5879439

ROYAL VETERINARY COLLEGE MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY Researchers investigated the presence and progression of the epizootic epitheliotropic disease virus (EEDV or salmonid herpesvirus-3) introduced into a population of naïve juvenile lake trout. The paper, published in Veterinary Pathology, characterised the tissues that supported EEDV growth and the associated pathologic features. The earliest viral targets included the skin and fins. Early gross lesions included exophthalmia, ocular haemorrhage and fin congestion. The epidermis and spleen showed cellular degeneration.

In advanced stages of the disease, researchers detected the virus in endothelial and dendritic cells as well as blood monocytes. https://journals.sagepub. com/doi/10.1177/ 0300985820941268

Research by the UK’s Royal Veterinary College, together with Nottingham Trent University, found that older, heavier dogs and brachycephalic breeds are more likely to suffer heat-related illnesses (HRIs) than their lighter, younger counterparts.

Researchers analysed the clinical records of more than 900,000 UK dogs under veterinary care in 2016. The Chow Chow had the greatest risk of HRI (odds ratio = 16.17). Compared to mesocephalic dogs, brachycephalic dogs had 2.10 times the odds of HRI. Dogs weighing more than 50 kilograms were also at high risk. The authors argue that veterinarians should, when advising people on breed selection, cover the breeds’ resistance to heat (including good respiratory function). www.nature.com/articles/ s41598-020-66015-8

UNIVERSITY OF COPENHAGEN University of Copenhagen scientists, together with researchers from Denmark, investigated the persistence and evolution of swine influenza A viruses in a sow herd over one year.

They found that the viruses were present throughout the year. They were most abundant in one-week-old litters and those litters also had the highest viral loads. The hemagglutinin gene was the main target for genetic drift, with a rate of 7.6×10-3 substitutions/site/ year. The authors conclude that swine influenza A virus infections should be regarded as enzootic with long-term within-herd persistence. They also state that the results highlight the importance of herd management in controlling viral diseases. www.mdpi.com/19994915/12/2/248/htm

VetScript October 2020 – 13

MASSEY

NEWS AND VIEWS

UNIVERSITY

RESEARCH UPDATE

Can cow behaviour influence performance?

Muhammad Wasim Iqbal, a PhD student at Massey University’s School of Agriculture and Environment, is using leading-edge technology to study the variation between individual dairy cows’ behaviour and their contributions to overall herd productivity.

BACKGROUND To ensure the competitiveness of the dairy industry in New Zealand, a consistent focus is required on lifting dairy production by considering it more in terms of quality, not quantity. In terms of value, not volume.

Ultimately, an individual animal’s performance (productivity) has a key role in the overall herd’s performance and the profitability of the farm. Having data on animal performance can help farmers to adjust housing conditions and feed so that their animals produce more,

14 – VetScript October 2020

or better-quality, products. It can also highlight the best- and worst-performing individuals, and aids in decisions on which cows to keep.

An individual’s performance is influenced by several factors including genetics, feeding style, reproductive status, health and the overall management of the farming system, each of which has been widely explored (Bareille et al., 2003; Walker et al., 2004). Dairy farming in New Zealand is founded on grass-based grazing production, in which animal performance is believed to be influenced by the animals’

behaviour, particularly grazing and rumination.

Grazing behaviour refers to grass intake, and it’s influenced by grass type, climatic conditions and the social status of the animals in the herd (Sowell et al., 1999; Beauchemin, 2018). Rumination behaviour indicates an animal’s digestive efficiency and health status and varies depending on grass quality, type and size. Intake and digestive efficiency (ie, grazing and rumination behaviour) affect the animals’ performance substantially.

It’s therefore useful to explore the contribution of animal behaviour to dairy cow performance.

Until now it’s been difficult to measure the effects of individual animals’ behaviour on their performance, owing to a lack of tools to measure their behaviour in a commercial grazing-based system.

PRECISION LIVESTOCK FARMING Precision livestock farming (PLF), also referred to as the ‘per-animal approach’, uses advanced technologies to optimise the contribution of each animal in a herd’s overall herd performance. It can supplement the eyes and ears of the farmer through real-time monitoring of behaviour, milk production, temperature, and whether the animal is in heat. In some cases it can predict the onset of disease (Rutten et al., 2013).

This information can be used by farmers to improve animal performance, welfare, physical health and reproduction and in the overall management of the farming system (Morota et al., 2018).

PHOTOGRAPHY: SUPPLIED

NEWS AND VIEWS

However, while devices that specifically measure behaviour have been tested overseas in indoor, confined dairy systems, there’s little evidence of their accuracy in outdoor grazing systems like those found in New Zealand. This and the system’s cost are barriers to the farming community adopting the technology.

GOALS OF CURRENT STUDY This study primarily aims to validate a behaviour-monitoring collar for dairy cows in a grazing-based system in New Zealand. It involves examining individual animals’ variations in grazing and rumination behaviour throughout the lactation season and evaluating whether behaviour can improve performance prediction in dairy cows.

THE SENSOR-EQUIPPED TOOL The study is using a herd of dairy cows from Massey University’s Dairy 1 farm. The herd comprises three breeds (Holstein-Friesian, Jersey and KiwiCross) in different lactations. We are collecting data on individuals’ hourly/daily grazing times, hourly/daily rumination times, daily live weights, monthly body condition scores and monthly milk production and composition for the whole lactation.

Behaviour data is being collected using an automated device called the Afimilk Silent Herdsman collar. The collar monitors and records daily and hourly

grazing times and rumination times on a real-time basis. The collar is fitted around an animal’s neck, with the sensor positioned on the right side of the neck.

The collar has a triaxial accelerometer sensor capable of identifying specific patterns in different behaviour categories, such as grazing and rumination. Built-in generic algorithms process the collected data and express it as grazing time and rumination time. The collar wirelessly transmits the collected data to a base station when the cow is in the range of ~500 metres, and a wireless internet connection in the farm environment is used to download it.

IMPLICATIONS Data have already been collected for the 2018–19 and 2019–20 lactation seasons. Data for this season (2020–21) are currently being collected, with completion expected by March 2021.

We’ll then undertake statistical modelling to evaluate the variations in grazing and rumination behaviour in different breeds, ages and lactation stages. We’ll also evaluate how variations in pasture quality affect grazing and rumination behaviour.

The study will provide information on the association of grazing and rumination behaviour with animal performance, body weight and body condition score, and the extent to which animal behaviour can predict animal performance. Investigations of intra-

and inter-animal variations in dairy cow behaviour and performance throughout the lactation season will contribute to further studies aimed at selecting more efficient animals. In turn, the selection of alternative, high-yielding dairy cows with appropriate indices will help to meet the future demands for milk volume and quality.

A preliminary analysis of the data already collected has revealed that breed and lactation number don’t affect grazing and rumination time significantly, but generally Jerseys spent more time grazing and less time ruminating compared to Friesians. Time spent grazing appears to decrease with the number of lactations, and the time of the year seems to have significant effects on grazing and rumination behaviour.

The study’s next steps include collecting and analysing the remaining 2020–21 season data. The outcomes of that analysis will help determine any further investigation.

REFERENCES: Bareille N, Beaudeau F, Billon S, Robert A, Faverdin P. Effects of health disorders on feed intake and milk production in dairy cows. Livestock Production Science 83(1), 53–62, 2003 Beauchemin KA. Invited review: Current perspectives on eating and rumination activity in dairy cows. Journal of Dairy Science 101(6), 4762–84, 2018 Morota G, Ventura RV, Silva FF, Koyama M, Fernando SC. Big data analytics and precision animal agriculture symposium: Machine learning and data mining advance predictive big data analysis in precision animal agriculture. Journal of Animal Science 96, 1540–50, 2018 Rutten CJ, Velthuis AGJ, Steeneveld W, Hogeveen H. Invited review: Sensors to support health management on dairy farms. Journal of Dairy Science 96, 1928–52, 2013 Sowell BF, Mosley JC, Bowman JGP. Social behaviour of grazing beef cattle: Implications for management. Proceedings of the American Society of Animal Science 78, 1–6, 1999 Walker GP, Dunshea FR, Doyle PT. Effects of nutrition and management on the production and composition of milk fat and protein: A review. Australian Journal of Agricultural Research 55(10), 1009–28, 2004

PhD candidate Natalie King compiles research projects underway at Massey University.

VetScript October 2020 – 15

NEWS AND VIEWS

Welfare and ethics

UPDATE

Virginia Williams, for MPI and the NZVA, provides an update on welfare and ethics.

DOG TRAINING METHODS A UK study by the Animal Behaviour, Cognition and Welfare Research Group at the University of Lincoln compared three methods of dog training – with and without remote electronic collars and training with positive reinforcement (China et al., 2020). Training with positive reinforcement was found to be more effective in addressing both the target behaviour and general obedience training. The research results led the authors to conclude that “there is no evidence to indicate that E-collar training is necessary, even for its most widely cited indication”. The authors also suggest that using positive reinforcement poses fewer risks to dog welfare and the quality of the human-dog relationship.

REFERENCE: China L, Mills DS, Cooper JJ. Efficacy of dog training with and without remote electronic collars vs. a focus on positive reinforcement.

Frontiers of Veterinary Science 7, 508 https://doi. org/10.3389/fvets.2020.00508, 2020

BROILER BREEDS A study compared the welfare, behaviour, production and meat quality of fastergrowing broilers from three main commercial broiler companies to those of a commercially available, slower-growing breed (Dixon, 2020).

The faster-growing breeds had more breast meat, while the slower-growing breed had more leg meat; however, the latter had better meat-quality scores. Overall, the slower-growing birds had better welfare than the other breeds in terms of activity and welfare measure scores, but took longer to reach slaughter weight and were not as efficient in production measures. Despite this, the author argued that if lower mortality and improved meat quality are taken into account, as well as the premium price paid for these birds, slower-growing broilers may be a viable commercial option.

The National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (NAWAC) is currently reviewing poultry standards, and slow-growing breeds continues to be a topic of interest.

REFERENCE: Dixon LM. Slow and steady wins the race: The behaviour and welfare of commercial faster growing broiler breeds compared to a commercial slower growing breed. PLOS ONE 15(4), 2020

HAPPY RABBITS Following an article in the June issue of VetScript, in which a study (Burn and Shields, 2020) demonstrated that rabbit welfare is better served if the animals are not kept singly, it appears that British rabbits have been living happier and healthier lives as a result of the COVID-19 lockdown. A survey has shown that 88% of rabbit owners have been spending more time playing with their rabbits. In addition, 47% of owners said they had spent more money on toys and “boredom breakers”, while 26% said they had splashed out on improving their rabbits’ accommodation.

REFERENCE: Burn CC, Shields P. Do rabbits need each other? Effects of single versus paired housing on rabbit body temperature and behaviour in a UK shelter. Animal Welfare 29(2), 209–19, 2020

16 – VetScript October 2020

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VetScript October 2020 – 17

NEWS AND VIEWS

Walking on the wild(life) side VCNZ’s Seton Butler introduces a guide to dealing with injured wildlife.

IN CONSULTATION WITH Kate McInnes at the Department of Conservation (DOC), I’ve tried to simplify the complex decision-making process for veterinary teams when they’re faced with injured wildlife in the clinic (see summarised chart below).

Importantly, all wildlife in New Zealand is considered protected unless specifically listed as not protected in the schedules of the Wildlife Act 1953 (it’s not as simple as ‘native animals are protected’).

The schedules include species declared as pests, such as possums and stoats, species that are not

protected, such as exotic passerines, and even native species that can be hunted at certain times of year. Endangered species should absolutely not be released without DOC involvement.

I encourage you to read the Wildlife Act at www.legislation.govt.nz. DOC has a 24/7 hotline if you need advice on managing wildlife cases. Note that marine mammals are managed under the Marine Mammals Protection Act 1978, and you should always contact DOC immediately for advice on treating them.

YOU ARE PRESENTED WITH AN INJURED ANIMAL BY A MEMBER OF THE PUBLIC AND YOU HAVE WELFARE CONCERNS Is the animal “severely injured or sick” and suffering “unreasonable or unnecessary pain or distress” and, in your opinion, won’t respond to reasonable treatment?

No

Is the animal a protected/partially protected or taonga species? (See Wildlife Act 1953)

No or it’s considered a pest

Consider animal welfare obligations and regional pest management plans – consider destruction.

Yes

The Animal Welfare Act, section 138, takes precedence in these situations and allows for prompt euthanasia/destruction* by a veterinarian. The Animal Welfare Act sets an expectation of an attempt to consult the owner.** * ‘Destruction’ applies to killing stray, unsocialised, frightened and distressed animals ** The owner of protected wildlife is DOC acting on behalf of the Crown in partnership with iwi

Yes/don't know

Is the animal in need of immediate care to relieve pain and distress to ensure its welfare?

No Yes

Address the immediate pain and suffering by administering pain relief and first aid. Veterinarians are not expected to perform extensive, costly procedures on wildlife.

The bodies of native animals who die or are killed have multiple possible uses (return to iwi, museum specimens or postmortem examinations) – liaise with DOC before disposing of the bodies or carrying out postmortem examinations.

Identify the species. For threatened (endangered) species, consider referral or seeking advice from experienced wildlife veterinarians.

Not protected

Animal (now) appears stable/healthy.

Establish contact with DOC and liaise on treatment. Consider ongoing medical or welfare needs – has the animal fully recovered?

Release – only if they’re fit for return to the wild; to their original site if it is safe and suitable. Consider involving DOC.

18 – VetScript October 2020

Yes

Poor survival prognosis

No

Transfer care and responsibility to permitted rehabilitation or captivity centre.

NZVA WILDLIFE CONFERENCE 27–29 November, Nelson Conservation medicine Wildlife disease Avian triage

Register now at nzva.org.nz/professionals/edhub/conference

NEWS IN THE ANDWILD VIEWS

20 – VetScript October 2020

IN THE WILD

Fascination

BRINGS OPPORTUNITY Matt Philp talks to Nicola Wichtel – a mixed animal veterinarian with a passion to help New Zealand’s iconic flightless bird.

THE FIRST TIME Nicola Wichtel saw a kiwi in the wild, she experienced two unexpected emotions. Surprise for a start, at just how close the birds can get to human habitation. This kiwi was just 100 metres from houses neighbouring a scenic reserve between Ōhope Beach, where Nicola lives, and Whakatāne, where she works as a mixed animal veterinarian for Bay Veterinary Group.

Her second reaction? “I don’t know if you’d call it a maternal instinct, but I felt I had to do everything I could to protect it,” she says. “Kiwis are such an amazing species, so beautiful and a national icon, but they’re not very good at protecting themselves. You feel obliged to help – especially since we humans have brought most of the threats.”

That first encounter as a newbie volunteer with the Whakatāne Kiwi Trust sparked in Nicola an enduring interest in kiwi. So it’s no surprise that when she applied for a Practitioners Grant from the NZVA’s Wildlife Society special interest branch (see the side bar), she chose kiwis as her subject. “I’m fascinated by them,” she says.

None of this was on the cards when Nicola graduated from Massey University three years ago. She’d grown

PHOTOGRAPHY: SUPPLIED

up in Palmerston North and later Canada, with veterinarian parents who worked for Canadian universities and an older sister who has subsequently followed their lead (see ‘A Family Business’, VetScript, July 2018). At Massey University Nicola focused on equine and production animals, although the goal was always to go into mixed practice. At that stage, kiwis weren’t on her radar. “I wasn’t overly interested in avian medicine going through veterinary school,” she says.

Nicola’s change of heart had its beginnings in her daily commute, a 15-minute drive that passes through three high-profile scenic reserves that are home to 200-odd North Island brown kiwi, a species in serious decline.

Ever since a few of these birds were discovered in Ōhope Scenic Reserve in the late 1990s, a concerted drive

by Bay of Plenty Regional Council, the Department of Conservation, the Whakatāne Kiwi Trust, Whakatāne District Council, iwi and community groups has fostered a self-sustaining kiwi population in the area.

“I decided I ought to be a good neighbour,” Nicola says of becoming a volunteer with the Whakatāne Kiwi Trust,

the community-led charity that’s at the heart of local predator-trapping and kiwimonitoring efforts.

“I was expecting to do trapping work, but they asked if I’d be willing to be trained as a kiwi veterinarian. It didn’t mean I’d become an expert; I’d be someone to whom they could take injured birds for initial assessments, triaging and stabilisation, before sending them to more appropriate facilities such as Wildbase or Kiwi Encounter in Rotorua. I’d be a kind of kiwi paramedic.”

Nicola’s first ‘training gig’ involved a chick with a broken leg, whom she ended up taking to Kiwi Encounter and helped to bandage and stabilise before

VetScript October 2020 – 21

IN THE WILD

GRANT OPPORTUNITIES AWAIT! THE NZVA’S WILDLIFE Society special interest branch is offering two grants to support veterinarians and other researchers in upskilling or undertaking projects related to preserving endangered wildlife.

The Practitioners Grant supports practising veterinarians to undertake CPD in the area of wildlife medicine.

It can be used to fund a wide array of activities, with previous grants having been used for practical placements, online courses and practice-based wildlife disease investigations.

All practising veterinarians are welcome to apply; this year’s Practitioners Grant is valued at $2,200.

Another award, from the Marion Cunningham Memorial Fund, is presented to students undertaking scientific research that is practicable and relevant to current wildlife concerns.

The research should enhance veterinary contributions to the welfare and management of New Zealand’s wildlife, and promote communication among both veterinarians and nonveterinarians with expertise in wildlife management and research. It should also encourage conservation, especially through veterinary contributions to the management of threatened species.

If you have an idea that will either improve your abilities as a wildlife veterinarian or benefit the profession’s knowledge of wildlife disease, please apply. This year’s fund is valued at $2,700.

Applications for both grants close on 31 October 2020. The application forms together with more information are available at www.nzva.org.nz/page/wildlife or send an email to wildlife@vets.org.nz.

It’s easy to apply; just tell the Wildlife Society what you would like to do with the money! n

22 – VetScript October 2020

IN THE WILD

Treating kiwi adds even more diversity to her role as a mixed animal veterinarian where part of her day job is treating sporting and working dogs.

surgery at Wildbase. She’s also helped with annual health checks on kiwi in the bush, which involved assessing their bill lengths, weights and general body condition.

It’s been a steep learning curve. “One of the first things you learn is how the trust tracks kiwi; they have radio transmitters and use aerials to narrow down locations and home in on them – it’s quite a technique.

“Then there’s handling. A kiwi has a flat sternum with no keel, which makes their ribcage very fragile. So you typically hold them by their feet and legs while cradling their body. I had no idea about that, or the techniques used to measure their health status, or the importance of weight to kiwis’ survival and life spans.

“When I started doing those checks I realised I knew next to nothing about kiwi. And I still have a lot to learn,

which is where the Practitioners Grant comes in.”

Nicola plans to use the money from the grant for further training at Kiwi Encounter, covering aspects such as handling, diet and treatment, followed by time at Wildbase. “I hope to see what they do for sick birds and get a better idea of what they want from me as someone on the front line,” she says.

“Kiwi are such precious creatures, and if I’m going to do this, I want to make sure I do the very best that I can.”

Nicola also wants to acquire Department of Conservation certification to do kiwi health checks, a process that involves observing and performing a certain number of field assessments, then carrying out checks under supervision for a while.

Her employer has been supportive of her work with the trust, and allowed her time off for training. “They can see the benefits of my helping to serve the human and feathered communities,” she says, adding that her new knowledge and skills should prove useful in treating other native birds that the clinic treats from time to time.

She hastens to add that she’s not becoming an avian specialist; mixed practice is still where her heart lies.

Her father Jeff, who these days is Dean of Guelph University’s Ontario Veterinary College, started out the same way, working in rural mixed practice in Dannevirke in the early 1980s. “He’s living vicariously through me,” she laughs. “When I send photos and talk about cases it brings back fond memories for him!”

What’s the appeal? “Part of it is the huge range of animals you deal with on any given day,” she answers. “Working with different species gives you a cool, holistic view, and the wildlife and kiwi aspects just add to that.”

Nicola intends to focus on clinical practice for now, and is working towards a master’s degree. For the research component, “I’m hoping to find a project with a kiwi focus, so we can learn about and continue to protect these fascinating birds,” she says.

Meantime, she’ll continue as a volunteer with the trust, helping with health checks and being available to step up when needed.

“We don’t often get injured birds so it’s not going to be a full-time job.

But when they do happen, when a kiwi needs help, it’s about being available and having the skills and confidence to treat them – and, we hope, save a life.”

VetScript October 2020 – 23

OUT THERE VETTING

Making a difference

IN UNCERTAIN TIMES

They’re out there in the provinces and the cities, veterinarians doing the everyday work in neighbourhood and country clinics. In this series, VetScript visits a different small clinic every month.

24 – VetScript October 2020

PHOTOGRAPHY: BRAD BONIFACE

OUT THERE VETTING

person dedicated to handling large animal bookings, and two administration staff.

Mirjam Guesgen meets Charlie Georgetti, one of the owners of Vets on Riverbank in Ōtaki, and learns about the importance of quality over quantity in veterinary practice.

What is it like to work in Ōtaki?

There’s a real community spirit here, and we try to do lots of local sponsorship to stay involved. As an example, we offer free health checks, vaccinations and taildocking for lambs on Lamb Day (what used to be called Lamb and Calf Day) every year.

The community reflects our practice philosophy: we’re small and privately owned. Our clients are people we know socially. Even though we’ve had a lot of growth in the past 10 years, we’ve retained a core of clients we’ve known for decades.

What kinds of animals do you see most often?

We’re a companion animal and equine practice with ‘a bit of other stuff’.

When Graham Carthew set up the practice in the 1970s, the equine stud work around here was huge. After the stock market crash in the early 1980s a lot of the stud work disappeared, but we still have a strong equine client base.

We have eight veterinarians: four small animal and four large animal veterinarians. The large animal veterinarians – Ray Lenaghan, Margaret Leyland, Francesca Nossell and Erin Simpson – are almost exclusively equine.

Francesca does a bit of lifestyle work too, and Erin has the most mixed practice. She also has a few dairy clients.

How about support staff?

We have nine veterinary nurses. It sounds like a lot, but each veterinarian is assigned a veterinary nurse every day, and they work together as a team.

The veterinary nurses are with us in consultations, and they take histories, do pre-medicating with us, fill out vaccination books, do surgeries with us and discharge patients. It works really nicely and keeps the day flowing.

You get 15 minutes of quality time to spend with each client and patient. It’s a game changer.

We also employ two large animal technicians. On top of that there’s one

Who manages the practice?

I guess I would be the practice manager.

It’s not an official role but I deal with the day-to-day decision-making. I bought in to the practice about five years ago.

I’m one of four owners together with Ray, Margaret and Erin and we make all major decisions together. The other three owners are equine veterinarians who aren’t always in the clinic, so it makes sense that I run things day to day because I’m in the clinic most often.

How do the owners coordinate running the practice?

Once a month we have a directors’ meeting and catch up. But we often meet casually in the communal veterinarians’ office. When the others are here, and not out and about, we just chat about things before the official meeting.

Who does after-hours work at Vets on Riverbank?

We separate the after-hours, so everyone does one in four weeks. There are four equine veterinarians so they each do a 1:4 roster. It’s the same for the four small animal veterinarians.

We always have a veterinary nurse on call, so that’s a 1:9 rotation. It’s good to have that backup because for some surgeries we insist on having two veterinary nurses. For example, with dog caesareans there are too many puppies to monitor and at the same time keep mum on anaesthetic safely. The extra veterinary nurse only has to come in sporadically. Everyone does their share.

How did you cope with the COVID-19 lockdown?

It’s funny, my wife’s a veterinarian too and she told me that her veterinary

Facing page (clockwise from top right): The clinic was built from a converted woolshed and has been modified over the years to suit the changing needs of the practice; owner and veterinarian Charlie Georgetti suits up with help from veterinary nurse Zoe Mansell; veterinary nurse Rachael Read assists in surgery; veterinarian Sarah Anderson; Charlie and Rachael.

VetScript October 2020 – 25

OUT THERE VETTING

THE PUBLIC’S PERCEPTION OF US IS REALLY IMPORTANT, AND AS TIMES GET TOUGHER IT’S GOING TO BE EVEN MORE IMPORTANT. WE NEED TO EDUCATE PEOPLE THAT WE’RE WORTH WHAT WE CHARGE.

This page (clockwise from top right): veterinary surgeon Mary Flemmer; veterinary surgeon Ed Dakin with Charlie; the retail area offers a mix of products from dog collars to drenches; Charlie and Rachael.

Facing page: Georgie Poynter monitoring a patient.

26 – VetScript October 2020

nursing staff were forced into a system where they each worked with one veterinarian. We were doing that anyway. In that respect there wasn’t too much change, but in other ways there was massive change.

We, like most places, shut down for anything but emergencies and urgent cases. We only had three veterinarians at that time (we hired the fourth recently), so we had a week on then two weeks off.

That meant one veterinarian and two veterinary nurses ran the whole small animal clinic.

We planned it that way so that if you had any exposure you had a full transmission-cycle isolation period. It worked naturally because of the number of veterinarians and veterinary nurses, but it was also just common sense to have a 14-day isolation period totally away from the clinic. It worked well and everyone got through. It was a busy time though.

Did the lockdown change anything about what you want to do with the business in future?

The only thing it prompted me into doing was look at selling our products online. During the lockdown we had a system where people could phone and order food then pick it up from a dropbox outside. In future we could use the dropbox for online orders too.

Unfortunately, now that we’re back to regular work hours it’s been flat out and we haven’t progressed that idea yet.

OUT THERE VETTING

Given the pandemic and all signs pointing to a global recession, what can veterinarians do to ensure their businesses stay afloat?

It’s incredibly difficult to predict what’s going to happen. During the last recession the veterinary profession was reasonably resilient, but this time around it’s definitely a concern. At the moment we’re really busy, but the next 12 months are going to bring interesting times.

I think people are always going to want to own pets, and farms will I hope still be viable businesses. The difficulty for us is in price perception. Clients still see us as too expensive when, I would argue, we provide excellent value for money. The public’s perception of us is really important, and as times get tougher it’s going to be even more important. We need to educate people that we’re worth what we charge.

In terms of our business staying viable, I’d like to think that if we keep to our philosophy of turning up every day and providing excellent service, our reputation will improve and it will keep us viable. Good service will make you as sustainable as possible in this environment. Part of that is remembering you’re a person first and a veterinarian second, and clients are people first too.

What are your plans for the future of Vets on Riverbank?

I have no interest in growing beyond eight veterinarians. Back in the day the other veterinarian, Kate Carthew, and I did one week on, one week off, which was

pretty intense and not sustainable. We wanted to grow the practice and felt that a 1:4 roster was sustainable. That’s where we are now and we’re happy with that.

It’s easy with a small team to provide a consistent level of service. You can also create strong relationships with clients, which are so important. If you get bigger I think you start to lose that.

So, in terms of goals, there’s always room to do the job better. That means looking at your practice protocols. For example, I had everyone read the World Small Animal Veterinary Association’s guidelines on pain protocols, and then we had a lunch to decide what we could do better on pain relief. We realised we could do some really simple things, like providing ketamine constant-rate infusions in all our surgical fluids. It’s really easy to do and it provides that extra pain relief.

What do you think are the biggest challenges facing the veterinary profession?

The attrition of veterinarians, especially experienced veterinarians. Kate told us last September [2019] that she was leaving and we started looking for a replacement straight away. But we struggled to find anyone; it took us eight to 10 months.

We’re losing all our experience as people move out of the profession.

Why do you think people are leaving the profession?

Maybe it’s the whole work-life-balance thing. There’s that persistent idea that

work is something to be avoided at all costs and it’s this big negative in your life. I guess it can become that, but surely most of us became veterinarians because we were passionate about what we were doing? I actually really dislike ‘work-life balance’ as a term.

We’re still committed to providing an on-call service for our clients, but it makes it harder to hire veterinarians.

People don’t want to do after-hours. They just want to work 8am–5pm and go home.

I also think people don’t necessarily understand the profession they’re getting into. It is busy. It can be stressful. You are dealing with really emotional decisions. It’s hard to teach people about that.

I always say to final-year students that it’s a massive mind change when you go from having basically no responsibilities on a Friday to starting a job the following Monday and the decisions are yours. You’re a student and all of a sudden you’re a veterinarian. When students are here on work experience I always try to get them to make decisions on managing cases and diagnoses.

Is there anything you think the veterinary profession could do better?

Support for junior veterinarians is really important. I feel we have a responsibility to the junior veterinarians to support them and bring them along. I don’t think the support for junior veterinarians is as important as it used to be, just based on what I’m seeing. That might be because, in the earlier days, you had people who worked in the practices owning them. They felt a responsibility for their workmates.

Now, with the rise of corporate practices, you might have a manager in an office somewhere else who doesn’t see what’s going on in the practice every day and isn’t as connected to the team.

I’m conscious that every mistake made by our profession reflects badly on us from the public’s point of view. If the clinic down the road isn’t doing a very good job, that might be good for us as a business, but it doesn’t do us any favours as a profession.

VetScript October 2020 – 27

IN THE CLINIC

Pets and owners – STATUS REPORT

There are more than

1.2 million cats in New Zealand

Fiona Esam, veterinarian and Welfare and Operations Officer at Companion Animals New Zealand, reports on the latest trends in companion animal ownership.

COMPANION ANIMALS NEW Zealand (CANZ) regularly undertakes the country’s largest general survey of companion animal ownership. The results of the 2020 survey, the first since 2016, show that New Zealand has remained a nation of animal lovers.

However, there are some differences in owner attitudes and behaviour since the mid-2010s that have implications for conservation and cat overpopulation.

WHAT’S SIMILAR According to the 2020 survey, the nationwide rate of pet ownership is stable at 64% and cats continue to be the most popular pets, being present in 41% of households.

People acquiring pets mainly do so because of a desire for companionship, love and affection. Unfortunately though, ‘it needed a home/it adopted us’ is also a main reason for acquiring some species. This may indicate that pet acquisitions are still reactive rather than planned choices for households, and it does indicate that there is still a large number of ‘unwanted’ animal pregnancies. Notably, ‘it needed a home/it adopted us’ was the second most common reason for people acquiring cats, a result that closely aligns with the significant feline stray and overpopulation problem in New Zealand.

28 – VetScript October 2020

One interesting result was that ‘it needed a home/it adopted us’ was also the second most common reason for people acquiring reptiles, indicating there is a high rate of reptile rehoming.

This may be because reptile species are long-lived and have specialised

74%

are considered to be a member of the family

41%

of New Zealand households share their home with at least one cat

83%

are both indoor/ outdoor

80% are mixed/

28%

were acquired from SPCA/ animal rescue

non-pure breed

49%

38%

are microchipped

live with at least one other cat

88% are desexed

Cost on average

$108

although half of cats were free

IMAGERY: SUPPLIED

IN THE CLINIC

STATED BARRIERS TO CAT AND DOG DESEXING Cost

27%

I intend to desex my cat but haven’t got around to it

23%

Feel it’s unnecessary/don’t think it’s important

21%

Think it’s important for an animal to have offspring/at least one litter

16%

Concerned about the process

14%

Kept for breeding It wasn’t desexed when we acquired it and it’s too old now Some other reason

12% 9% 11%

Feel it’s unnecessary/don’t think it’s important

27%

Kept for breeding

26%

Cost

20%

I intend to desex my dog but haven’t got around to it

16%

Think it’s important for an animal to have offspring/at least one litter

13%

Concerned about the process

13%

It wasn’t desexed when we acquired it and it’s too old now Some other reason

care requirements, and new owners may be unprepared to provide for their lifetime care.

Pleasingly for veterinary practices, the role of veterinarians as trusted sources of information remains constant. When respondents were asked who or what they considered to be the best sources of information for pet-related issues, 71% stated veterinarians and veterinary staff, essentially unchanged from 72% in 2016. This was significantly higher than the next most common answer, SPCA. While SPCA’s credibility has increased from 32% to 48% in the past four years, the internet’s has dropped from 51% to 41%.

WHILE SPCA’S CREDIBILITY HAS INCREASED FROM 32% TO 48% IN THE PAST FOUR YEARS, THE INTERNET’S HAS DROPPED FROM 51% TO 41%.

9% 11%

WHAT’S CHANGED So what’s new in pet ownership since 2016? For one thing, there’s a potentially increasing trend in New Zealand of owners keeping cats indoors.

While cats are still predominantly both indoor and outdoor animals (83%), the incidence of those being indoor only has risen from 8% in 2016 to 11% in 2020. While this 3% change may not sound significant, it represents more than 36,000 cats and will be an interesting trend to monitor over time.

In addition, if we break down indoor cats by demographics, we learn that indoor cats are most common in Asian households, where 20% are indoor only.

VetScript October 2020 – 29

IN THE CLINIC

Similarly, about a fifth (19%) of owners aged 25–34 keep their cats indoors.

Indoor cats are also most common in cities/urban environments, where 17% are indoor only.

Another trend is a reduction in desexing rates since 2016, with a drop from 93% to 88% in cats and 75% to 71% in dogs. These rates are disappointing given New Zealand’s issue of oversupply of both cats and dogs.

To investigate the possible reasons for these figures, we looked at the drivers of and barriers to desexing. By far the biggest driver was a desire to prevent unwanted litters in cats and dogs, at 71% and 65% respectively.

The top three barriers to desexing cats were cost, ‘haven’t got around to it’, and feeling that the procedure was unnecessary or unimportant. All three of these reasons featured in the top barriers for desexing dogs, along with intentionally keeping them intact for breeding purposes.

In the 2020 survey we included a new question, ‘What did you pay for your pet?’. You may be surprised to know that, in many cases, the answer was ‘nothing’, with 53% percent of cats, 29% of dogs, 25% of horses and

There are approximately

850,000 dogs in New Zealand

A third of New Zealand households share their home with at least one dog

78%

are considered to be a member of the family

... WHILE DOGS AND RABBITS ARE SENTIENT BEINGS REQUIRING LIFELONG VETERINARY CARE, THERE ARE CLEAR DIFFERENCES IN PERCEPTIONS BETWEEN DOG AND RABBIT OWNERS AROUND VETERINARY CARE.

30 – VetScript October 2020

36% of rabbits having been procured for free.

This makes sense, as the most common sources of cats included a friend (15%), found/stray (16%) and family member (10%), all of which are likely sources of low- or no-cost cats.

However, the most common source for cats was an animal shelter, at 28%. The fact that so many cats are being given away through these informal networks also speaks to the significant cat overpopulation issue in New Zealand.

Another new question in the 2020 survey centred on the importance of various responsibilities that go with companion animal ownership.

While providing food, water and shelter was unsurprisingly generally considered very important, there were more diverse findings in relation to veterinary care.

The survey asked owners about the importance of making veterinary visits if their pets were injured or sick,

67%

are both indoor/ outdoor

41%

21%

are mixed/ non-pure breed

were acquired from a breeder

72%

25%

are microchipped

71% are desexed

live with at least one other dog Cost on average

$440

although 29% of dogs were free

IN THE CLINIC

STATED IMPORTANCE OF DIFFERENT ELEMENTS OF OWNERSHIP IMPORTANCE

CATS

DOGS

HORSES/ PONIES

RABBITS

Providing a nutritious diet and access to clean, fresh water

Very important

91%

89%

85%

89%

Not important

1%

1%

1%

1%

Providing adequate shelter

Very important

89%

89%

79%

91%

Not important

1%

1%

1%

1%

Veterinary visits if the animal is sick or injured

Very important

88%

88%

85%

80%

Not important

1%

2%

1%

5%

Vaccination

Very important

74%

80%

69%

56%

Not important

4%

3%

3%

12%

Very important

52%

66%

63%

44%

Not important

10%

5%

4%

14%

Annual veterinary check-ups

ANOTHER TREND IS A REDUCTION IN DESEXING RATES SINCE 2016, WITH A DROP FROM 93% TO 88% IN CATS AND 75% TO 71% IN DOGS. THESE RATES ARE DISAPPOINTING GIVEN NEW ZEALAND’S ISSUE OF OVERSUPPLY OF BOTH CATS AND DOGS.

for vaccinations, and for annual veterinary check-ups. For all three elements, dog owners were the most likely to say they were ‘very important’ and rabbit owners were the least likely to agree with that statement and the most likely to say they were ‘not important’.

This indicates that, while dogs and rabbits are sentient beings requiring lifelong veterinary care, there are clear differences in perceptions between dog and rabbit owners around veterinary care. Meanwhile, cat owners were very sure that desexing and vaccination were good practice, with 95% agreeing that both services were ‘somewhat’ or ‘very’ important. Pleasingly, 88% of owners also thought that annual veterinary checks were ‘somewhat’ (36%) or ‘very’ important (52%).

The 2020 report provides some hope that we are on the right path to improving the culture of New Zealand pet ownership.

Kiwis continue to adopt animals in good numbers and have a reasonable knowledge of their responsibilities as pet owners.

Pets are often viewed as family members.

However, there is work to do on some issues, such as people not following through on intentions to desex their animals. This problem is illustrated in the high number of lowcost and free pets who are adopted, as well as in the reasons for adoption.

Both features demonstrate that, still, there are too many unwanted pets born each year.

Against this background, veterinarians remain by far the most respected source of information, and we encourage clinicians to continue to use their expertise to influence an ever-improving culture of responsible companion animal guardianship in New Zealand.

Want to learn more? You can access the full version of the Companion Animals in New Zealand 2020 Report for free at www.companionanimals. nz/publications.

VetScript October 2020 – 31

MEMBERSHIP

2021 MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS OPEN 1 OCTOBER WE’VE LISTENED TO YOUR FEEDBACK AND YOUR ORGANISATION IS STRONGER AND MORE REPRESENTATIVE OF YOUR VIEWS. Over the past three years the NZVA has been going through a major change project and has consulted with members, branch committees, employers, partners, staff and other stakeholders. The new inclusive membership model is one of the final pieces of the puzzle and we are pleased to be able to bring this to you in 2021.

WHAT’S CHANGED? We now have a governance and skills-based chair to keep us on track with direction and leadership.

Our board numbers have been reduced from 11 to a maximum of seven so we provide agile and decisive governance and save costs.

The Member Advisory Group was established so members’ wishes are clearly represented.

Regional branches have changed to regional networks so they can focus on collegiality.

Special interest branches’ (SIBs’) terms of reference have changed to national groups to share technical information and advice for the benefit of all NZVA members.

NEW BOARD STRUCTURE MEMBER ADVISORY GROUP (MAG) CREATED INCLUSIVE MEMBERSHIP/ PUBLISHING STRATEGY

OUR MEMBER PRIORITIES IN 2021 WORKFORCE AND BUSINESS SUSTAINABILITY: Improve retention and recruitment, promotion, business mentoring and coaching.

TRANSLATING WELLBEING INTO PRACTICE: Provide mentoring

SIMPLIFYING THE FINANCIAL PROCESS

programmes, access to CPD activities and engagement through regional networks.

PUBLIC CONFIDENCE OF VETERINARIANS IN EVIDENCE-BASED ANIMAL HEALTH AND WELFARE: Protect and enhance the

reputation of veterinarians, who are science- and evidencebased animal health and welfare advocates and experts.

32 – VetScript October 2020

MEMBERSHIP

ONLY ONE MEMBERSHIP FEE There is now only one membership fee to join the NZVA and SIBs, giving you all-inclusive access to any technical information you want. When you renew your membership you will nominate the top three SIBs that you would like to associate with according to your work activity and indicate what other branches are of interest to you.

MOST FEES HAVE GONE DOWN The NZVA is delivering more for less!

Membership fees have been reduced (see table) and further discounts will be applied according to when membership is paid and what percentage of veterinarians in a clinic are members.

If 100% of veterinarians in a clinic sign up, then all support staff (administration or veterinary nurses) will receive free Associate Membership and get access to the Wellbeing Hub, discounted CPD and non-technical information.

WHY SHOULD YOU BELONG TO YOUR ASSOCIATION? THIS IS YOUR ANSWER: A sense of community is at the heart of the veterinary profession.

Belonging to your association will provide you with a competitive advantage because you will become an active, informed member within the veterinary profession.

Advocate – group influence and the power to change are stronger than at the individual level.

Network – meet with like-minded professionals interested in the same issues as you and discover connections within your community.

Stay connected – keep up to date through our communication channels.

Wellbeing – is fundamental to the overall health of an individual and business; choose from the many support channels available.

Expand your knowledge – choose from a variety of CPD opportunities to boost your career.

Recognise achievements – celebrate your achievements and make a difference to the veterinary profession.

MEMBERSHIP CATEGORY

SUBCATEGORY

HOW DO I GET THE DISCOUNTS? Discounts are varied according to whether your membership is paid in full by 31 January 2021 and/or 100% of eligible veterinarians in your business are members.

Come on board! Help us be stronger together as an association and membership, and get the most from member benefits.

2021 membership: Renewals open now Keep an eye out for the NZVA renewal email or instructions from your employer.

Contact

membership@vets.org.nz.

Veterinarian

Full-time

Practising or Industry

Part-time

NZVA SINGLE MEMBERSHIP FEE (BEFORE DISCOUNT)

NZVA SINGLE MEMBERSHIP FEE (AFTER DISCOUNT)

(GST excl)

(GST incl)

(GST excl)

(GST incl)

$860

$989

$745

$856.75

$600

$690

$521

$599.15

$300

$345

$253

$290.95

$280

$322

$245

$281.75

Locum Contractor Self-employed

Veterinarian

Consultant Year 1 Graduate

New Graduate

Year 2 Graduate Year 3 Graduate

Veterinarian

Time out

Non-practising (online only)

Academic / Researcher Overseas Postgraduate

Associate Members Practice Manager (online only) Industry Partner (non-veterinarian) Large Animal Veterinary Technician Other

VetScript October 2020 – 33

CASE STUDY

Cooperating on cataracts Steve Heap, a veterinarian with advanced qualifications in veterinary ophthalmology, from McMaster & Heap Veterinary Practice in Christchurch, describes a cataract surgery he successfully performed on a rabbit – and highlights the benefits of working collaboratively with colleagues.

IN JULY 2019 neighbouring Christchurch veterinary clinic At the Vets referred Coco, a three-year-old crossbred female rabbit with cataracts and vision loss, to McMaster & Heap Veterinary Practice.

The cataract in Coco’s left eye had initially been noticed two months previously and she had been authorised a course of oral fenbendazole for Encephalitozoon cuniculi. Although not confirmed as the cause in Coco’s case, this protozoa can cause cataracts in rabbits.

The owners noticed a change in Coco’s right eye and took her back to her primary veterinarian, Helen Keane, 10 days later. Sadly, it was also developing a cataract. Coco’s owners, wanting to do everything possible to improve her sight, were happy to be referred to me (given my training in ophthalmology) to see if it would be possible to remove the rapid-onset bilateral cataracts.

Coco presented with visual mistakes and had lost some confidence, but was otherwise well and on no current medication. Bilateral total mature cataracts were present, with some mild lens-induced uveitis.

Coco’s owners felt her quality of life was not as good as they would like it to be and were enthusiastic about the cataract surgery’s potential to enhance it. We had a thorough, and quite pessimistic, discussion about the possible problems with the surgery from an anaesthetic point of view and those associated with phacoemulsification cataract surgery itself,

34 – VetScript October 2020

CASE STUDY

Coco was completely blind when she was referred for surgery.

A video of the surgery can be viewed at www.facebook.com/ watch/?v=1381123515377460 &extid=yKI6BYT9D2wPPutd.

IMAGERY: SUPPLIED

VetScript October 2020 – 35

NEWS AND VIEWS

and the massive amount of postoperative care the owners would need to provide.

In spite of my apprehension, the cost and the potential problems, the owners were keen to proceed. I had performed more than 200 cataract operations in dogs and about 10 in cats, but this was to be my first cataract procedure on a rabbit.

Coco was started on ketorolac tromethamine (Acular) eye drops twice daily to both eyes, to control the lensinduced uveitis before surgery.

To anaesthetise Coco I called on Helen and veterinary nurse Emma Harre from At the Vets. Helen’s caseload largely consists of rabbits and she and Emma felt confident about performing the procedure. They also provided advice on postoperative pain relief and supportive care.

Phacoemulsification involves grooving and dividing the cataractous lens with a phaco handpiece and a second fine instrument to help ‘crack’ the lens nucleus. The separate lens segments are then removed, with the phaco needle vibrating, cutting and aspirating the usually very firm lens fragments.

Preoperative ocular medication involved a rotation of topical phenylephrine (Minims), tropicamide (Mydriacyl), chloramphenicol (Chlorafast), ketorolac (Acular) and prednisolone acetate (Pred Forte) eye drops every 10 minutes for three hours. Meloxicam and Depocillin injections were also given preoperatively. A 25-gauge cannula was placed in Coco’s marginal ear vein to deliver warmed intravenous (IV) Hartmann’s fluid pre- and postoperatively. We made sure to take care when securing the IV line as rabbits are masters at tearing them out if they are uncomfortable.

Coco was then anaesthetised using an intramuscular injection of buprenorphine, medetomidine and ketamine, and pre-oxygenated via mask while this took effect. This step is essential to prevent hypoxia, especially given that intubating rabbits is not as

36 – VetScript October 2020

IMAGERY: SUPPLIED

NEWS AND VIEWS

Top left: Coco recovers from surgery under the very watchful eyes of staff.

This page: Coco seven days postoperatively, now with functional vision.

straightforward as it is for cats and dogs and can take a few minutes.

Coco was blind-intubated by Helen then hooked up to oxygen and lowconcentration isoflurane, increasing the isoflurane as the medetomidine and ketamine wore off. If it can be achieved quickly, endotracheal intubation protects the airway from foreign objects going down, allows oxygen to be delivered reliably and allows intermittent positive-pressure ventilation (IPPV) if the rabbit becomes hypoxic or apnoeic.

Coco was connected to an Ayre’s T-piece circuit, which has the advantage of low resistance and little dead space.

The use of inhalant agents alone as induction agents, whether administered via face mask or induction chamber, is contraindicated in rabbits because it is too stressful and patients can breathhold (leading to hypoxia, hypercapnia and bradycardia) and struggle, potentially injuring themselves. There are many safe anaesthetic protocols for use in rabbits, using a variety of drugs, and ultimately the choice of the most appropriate anaesthetic protocol depends on personal preference and familiarity with each of the drugs, the patient’s health status and the procedure to be performed.

Patient monitoring is essential during an anaesthetic procedure, and more so with rabbits than with other animals.

Emma was on hand to constantly monitor Coco’s anaesthesia level, response to painful stimuli and vital parameters. Coco was attached to a pulse

I HAD PERFORMED MORE THAN 200 CATARACT OPERATIONS IN DOGS AND ABOUT 10 IN CATS, BUT THIS WAS TO BE MY FIRST CATARACT PROCEDURE ON A RABBIT.

oximeter and a Doppler blood-pressure monitor, and had an oesophageal stethoscope placed. Her vital signs, including rectal temperature, heart and respiratory rates, oxygen saturation and blood pressure, were recorded through SmartFlow, a paperless patientmonitoring system.

All anaesthetics affect thermoregulation, and measures should be taken to avoid hypothermia.

Rabbits are particularly sensitive to heat loss because of their small body

mass and their high body surface-tovolume ratios. Hypothermia can have serious consequences and is one of the most common causes of mortality during anaesthesia in rabbits, along with respiratory compromise. Coco was positioned on a heat pad and had a fluid warmer attached, her extremities were wrapped in bubble wrap, she was wrapped in merino blankets and she had hotties placed around her.

She was under anaesthetic for a total of 120 minutes.

VetScript October 2020 – 37

NEWS AND VIEWS

As Coco’s head shape and eye positions were very different from those of the average dog, positioning was critical to allow access of the phacoemulsification needle. The first eye was difficult due to the phacoemulsification needle’s different angle of entry to the anterior chamber and lens. Some positional adjustments made after doing the first eye made the second procedure significantly easier.

In both eyes the rabbit’s very thin, mobile iris prolapsed slightly into the corneal incision during phacoemulsification. Extra viscoelastic solution and lower fluid flow rates managed this to some extent.

Vigilant patient monitoring continued after the surgery, as more than 60% of deaths occur in the first three hours after an anaesthetic.

The mucous membrane colour and Coco’s pulse and respiratory rate were monitored every five minutes until she was able to move around her cage.

As heat should be provided until a rabbit is able to maintain their normal body temperature of 38.5–40°C, a Bair Hugger blanket was used on Coco for warmth in the immediate postoperative period. We continued warmed IV fluid and encouraged her to eat once awake. Coco recovered very well from her anaesthetic and surgery.

Postoperatively, the owners applied ciprofloxacin eye drops four times daily

38 – VetScript October 2020

SHE HAS VERY FUNCTIONAL VISION AND IS ENJOYING A FULL AND ACTIVE LIFE. HER OWNERS ARE THRILLED.

for seven days, topical phenylephrine atropine daily for four days, ketorolac tromethamine twice daily and prednisolone acetate twice daily. All were applied to both eyes. Meloxicam was given orally for six weeks.

Coco developed a central superficial corneal ulcer in her left eye two days postoperatively. The prednisolone acetate was stopped in the left eye and ocular lubricants added. The ulcer resolved over two days. Prednisolone acetate was restarted and Aketorolac tromethamine and prednisolone acetate were tapered over the next two months.

Vision was present immediately after surgery. Anterior uveitis was controlled

and minimal posterior lens capsular scarring developed after surgery.

One year after surgery Coco is still on ketorolac tromethamine daily to both eyes. Her owners have complied with the various medications and check-ups she has needed.

Coco now shows confidence in her environment and an enjoyment in playing again (toilet rolls are her favourite). She has very functional vision and is enjoying a full and active life. Her owners are thrilled.

This case highlights the benefits of working collaboratively with colleagues in using skills in different fields of interest to achieve positive outcomes.

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NEWS AND VIEWS

40 – VetScript October 2020

ONE HEALTH

A GROUNDBREAKING SYSTEM FOR ALL A New Zealand-designed parasite diagnostic tool shows global promise, not just for animal health but for human health too. Naomi Arnold explains.

ACCORDING TO THE World Health Organization, about 1.5 billion people – a quarter of the world’s population – are affected by intestinal parasites or worms.

But that may be about to change, because a cloud-based, point-of-care diagnostic tool – originally designed for use with animals – is being trialled for use in human health in developing countries.

The tool is called FECPAKG2 and it’s the brainchild of Kiwi company Techion.

Techion founder and Managing Director Greg Mirams says the briefcasesized unit is at the point where it’s like “a really, really clever microscope” with a platform that can bridge both animal health and human health.

“Anything you can do microscopically you can put through this device,” he says.

The name FECPAK may be familiar to you, as it was first developed in the early 1990s. The product was designed for use with primary production animals as a tool for measuring parasite burdens and diagnosing issues such as facial eczema.

Back then, farmers had to be trained to use microscopes to analyse and diagnose their samples.

In 2006 FECPAK was sold to PGG Wrightson, which had global aspirations for the technology. However, the subsequent financial crisis brought an end to that idea, and Greg decided to take it back and have another go.

Its development was supported by Callaghan Innovation, and was backed

PHOTOGRAPHY: ALAN DOVE

Techion’s founder and Managing Director, Greg Mirams, says data from tools such as FECPAKG2 has “the ability to empower experts and decision-makers”.

VetScript October 2020 – 41

NEWS AND VIEWS

This page (top image): Research and Development Technician Chris Attwood works to improve the artificial intelligence’s ability to categorise different parasites. (bottom image): Severe Ascaris infection (eggs are marked in green) in a Tanzanian child.

Facing page: Laboratory Manager Lisa Growden loads farm samples into a cassette that will be placed inside the FECPAKG2 tool.

42 – VetScript October 2020

by several of New Zealand’s leading early-stage investors including Quayside Holdings (the investment arm of Bay of Plenty Regional Council), K1W1 (established by Sir Stephen Tindall), the Crown’s New Zealand Venture Investment Fund, and angel investors FKA and Enterprise Angels.

“Its evolution really kicked in from 2011, with the emergence of cloud computing,” says Greg.

This second-generation unit enables a farmer to look at parasite eggs in a faecal sample (via a patented viewing vessel), then capture a composite image and send it off to be analysed by skilled staff in a Techion Group diagnostic lab – usually within an hour of submission.

Artificial intelligence is used to help analyse the image, and the image is stored in the cloud so it can be accessed anytime from anywhere. In addition, data trends from the testing can be used to help manage diseases and parasites.

The team hopes to develop the artificial intelligence to a point where people won’t need to be involved in image

NEWS AND VIEWS

“WE CALL OURSELVES ‘THE MUDDY BOOTS DEVELOPER’. WE CAME FROM THE FIELD TO TRY TO DEVELOP A SOLUTION FOR THE FIELD.”

analysis, meaning users could get results in real time.

FECPAKG2 is just one of the diagnostic technologies being evaluated by STARWORMS (STop Anthelmintic Resistant WORMS) in a project bankrolled by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

STARWORMS is a global project run by a collaborative group of research partners led by veterinarian Bruno Levecke, from Belgium’s Ghent University. It aims to strengthen

the monitoring and surveillance of drug efficacy and anthelmintic resistance through programmes designed to eliminate and control soil-transmitted helminth infections in humans.

The primary animal markets for FECPAKG2 are New Zealand, Australia, the UK and Europe, but aid programmes focusing on human health are using it in the likes of Ethiopia and Nigeria. Human and animal data is marshalled using the same platform, but sent to different places for diagnosis. Ninety-five percent of FECPAKG2’s clients are offshore.

FECPAKG2’s potential for use in human healthcare is also being explored by a team at the Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute (Swiss TPH), based in Basel.

Swiss TPH parasitologist Jennifer Keiser says simple, fast and accurate diagnostic tools are critical in evaluating drug efficacy and the potential resistance of soil-transmitted helminth infections.

Her colleague Jakob ZinsstagKlopfenstein (a professor of epidemiology and trained veterinarian) recently came to New Zealand and spent

three months promoting and supporting the One Health approach. While here he worked with Techion on the FECPAKG2 platform, contributing his design and technical expertise to ideas on how the platform could be used in a range of disease-testing applications.

Together with the Techion team, Jakob identified more than 30 diseases that could be diagnosed through systems like FECPAKG2. This would in turn accelerate their control and provide access to care for people who health systems often ignore. “In remote settings like those of mobile pastoralists in Chad, the combination of point-of-care diagnostic systems, digital technologies and mobile communication has great potential for animal and human health,” he says.

Greg agrees. “If we go into a village environment in Chad, we want a diagnostic system that can test water, children and animals in one system,” he says. “Third-world countries have some of the health challenges that we have in animals, but they don’t have the same health infrastructure. We can detect

VetScript October 2020 – 43

NEWS AND VIEWS

(top image) Client Support Coordinator Alice Hill tests the FECPAKG2 system. (bottom image) Strongylid eggs.

44 – VetScript October 2020

giardia in a sheep population using the same technique as we would for humans – we’re still seeing a giardia cyst.”

Techion is working on many such issues. Right now, it’s about to release a test for liver and rumen flukes.

The parasitic worms cause problems worldwide and their treatment is the same for animals and people.

Greg says it’s a two-way thing; human health can sometimes benefit from treatment approaches used in production animal health. “When you peel it back, diseases are similar and drugs are similar, and there are more and higher-quality diagnostic technologies for animals than we often find in humans.”

Greg explains that farmers in the primary production industry are driven to get on top of diseases quickly because they may otherwise lose money, so there’s a good system for diagnosing many animal diseases. That’s not always so for human diseases. “Leptospirosis, salmonellosis, giardia, cryptosporidiosis – veterinarians know much more about nasty protozoans than do most clinicians in human health.”

Greg cites a classic example of this gulf in the lag of COVID-19 testing and data

ONE HEALTH

GREG SAYS IT’S A TWO-WAY THING; HUMAN HEALTH CAN SOMETIMES BENEFIT FROM TREATMENT APPROACHES USED IN PRODUCTION ANIMAL HEALTH.

collation. In contrast, Greg says, “I can log on and show you, live, which farmers in southern England have a particular parasite in their livestock. We can understand how climate is triggering the disease and know the classes of animal affected, what they were treated with, their ages and their condition, and see this data coming through live.

“What we do is all about connecting point-of-care diagnostics to expertise,” he says. “We see this in everything from mycoplasma to salmonella outbreaks – if we have fast, live data coming from the field, we can make quick decisions based on it.”

Greg says the team is working more and more with New Zealand veterinarians to enable them to process samples in their

clinics with their veterinary nurse teams or receive results from their farming clients using FECPAKG2 on farm. Veterinarians no longer have to post samples to a centralised lab; they can send them instantly, 24/7, any day of the year. What’s more, sending a sample in New Zealand at 8pm means the UK team can analyse it during their working day. And there’s always an audit trail, which is particularly important for drug efficacy work.

“We can go back and show someone the photos and say, ‘These eggs came out of your animals.’ They can bang samples through without having to be highly trained microscope technicians, and all the data is shareable. We’re a borderless business. We can be anywhere.”

At New York’s Cornell University, parasitologist Dwight Bowman has been working with Techion on validating the FECPAKG2 technology for environmental testing, particularly wastewater plants (although the work is now on hold owing to the COVID-19 pandemic).

“I’m a huge believer,” Dwight says.

“I’m very interested in this technology replacing me when I’m gone.”

In human health, FECPAKG2 holds promise for applications such as recycling city wastewater solids into fertiliser, which has to be free of pathogens first. Dwight and Greg visited a Chicago municipal waste plant

The FECPAKG2 platform fits snuggly inside a suitcase, meaning it can go where veterinarians or human healthcare workers go. This is a huge boon in developing countries, where access to laboratories may not be easy.

to demonstrate the technology, and a trial with large processing sites is now on the horizon.

Dwight comments that the tool is offering major benefits during the COVID-19 pandemic, as samples don’t have to leave farms or infected areas; biosecurity is in place immediately. “It’s a great tool,” he says. “It’s simple to use, and the methods are practical and easy to implement on farm.”

Greg, who is the son of a farmer and trained at Lincoln University, says growing up on a farm had a big influence on the tool’s development.

“I’m a farm systems guy,” he says.

“When I think about parasites on farm, I come from a view of ‘What can I do to prevent those animals shedding lots of parasite eggs?’

“We call ourselves ‘the muddy boots developer’. We came from the field to try to develop a solution for the field.”

VetScript October 2020 – 45

IN THE WORKPLACE

MAKE YOUR OWN

SUCCESS Mike Eng interviews the man behind The 10 Behaviours of Success – a course now on offer to all members of the veterinary profession.

WHILE SUCCESS MEANS different things to different people, it’s fair to say we all want our fair share. For most, professional success brings a sense of satisfaction and achievement that can enhance overall wellbeing and help to make life at home, work and play fulfilling and rewarding.

46 – VetScript October 2020

As many are aware, veterinary professionals have a unique set of onthe-job challenges, and pressures in the wider world are affecting all practices and their people. It could be for some that survival, rather than success, is a more realistic goal in 2020.

But according to author, academic and consultant David Keane, striving for and achieving success at work can help professionals in any industry to enjoy a better sense of wellbeing and life satisfaction overall. As someone who has studied the attributes of successful people for more than three decades, he should know.

“How you define success is critically important. It determines how you approach life professionally and personally, how you make decisions, and ultimately the results you get in your life,” he says.

His definition of success is one that can be applied to everyone seeking success.

It’s about being on a pathway to

achieving ‘worthwhile dreams’, whatever these happen to be for someone.

“Each person can define success as it relates to themselves and each of us can be uniquely successful,” says David.

“Success is about living life in a way that is purposeful. A person can look at the different aspects of their life and check if they are ‘on purpose’ or not.”

Personal success does not have to come at the expense of professional success, he says. “A person can ask if they are ‘on purpose’ with their professional and personal lives. If the answer is ‘no’, they should look at what ‘worthwhile dreams’ mean in professional and personal senses. If there are tensions between the two, it’s a good idea to find a way for them to co-exist.”

David says the key to achieving success, regardless of how we define it, begins with our behaviours. “Over time, we develop certain patterns and behaviours that get ingrained in the way we think and act. These affect how we make decisions and how we go about our work. They also have a big influence on our lives outside work, how we manage relationships and stress, and how we achieve a balance between work and our personal lives,” he says.

David’s original PhD research looked at the behaviours of successful leaders. Since then he has broadened his research to study successful people in all walks of life, and discovered they exhibit certain behaviours every day. “I’ve always been fascinated by successful people and the behaviours of people who achieve great things. It’s always struck me that if you want to get good at something, the first place to look is at those people who have already achieved what you are interested in.”

Growing up, David was inspired by stories of people who had overcome challenges to achieve success.

“I loved reading autobiographies and the life stories of people who had lived interesting lives. The people who inspire me are not necessarily famous.

They are everyday people who wake up most mornings and know that what they

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NEWS AND VIEWS

“HOW YOU DEFINE SUCCESS IS CRITICALLY IMPORTANT. IT DETERMINES HOW YOU APPROACH LIFE PROFESSIONALLY AND PERSONALLY, HOW YOU MAKE DECISIONS, AND ULTIMATELY THE RESULTS YOU GET IN YOUR LIFE.”

are going to do today aligns with their purpose. They are successful on their terms. There is a big difference between being famous and being successful.”

After more than 30 years of ongoing research, which was also informed by his work as a management consultant, David wrote the best-selling business book, The Art of Deliberate Success: The 10 Behaviours of Successful People, to help more people achieve success in every aspect of life.

The book was the foundation for a professional development seminar series, which in conjunction with the NZVA has been tailored to the unique needs of busy veterinary professionals in 2020.

David says the seminar series – called The 10 Behaviours of Success – will provide each participant with a ‘success toolbox’ that they can use daily. “With practice, you can use the tools to be your best self and fully reach your potential,” he says. There is also an app, which is key to the learning experience, David explains. It contains audio versions of the 12 chapters from the book, and participants listen to various chapters to prepare for weekly seminars.

“We elevate the quality of the learning experience because our weekly sessions build on our reading.” The app includes a quiz of 100 questions for profiling success

behaviours in participants’ professional and personal lives. It helps in identifying areas for improvement and provides tools to help them succeed.

Participants will come away with ways to reduce unwanted stress, balance the personal and professional aspects of their lives, be better team players and improve productivity – which in turn can lead to less burnout, a work culture that’s more open to new ideas, and improved staff retention in a workplace that is more attractive to potential future employees, David says.

This can be a win for both employees and employers – a kind of virtuous circle. “When you are your best self, your employer gets a better you, which in turn contributes to business success.”

NZVA CEO Kevin Bryant decided to see for himself whether The 10 Behaviours of Success course lived up to its billing.

He says he walked away with a few things to reflect on. His biggest takeaway was a “heightened awareness of behaviours I can work on” along with a better understanding of how his behaviour can affect others. It reinforced Kevin’s view that setting personal goals and being honest with himself about what he values most is the start of the journey.

Tim Montgomery, equine veterinarian and President of the NZVA’s Veterinary Business Branch, also took part. “The 10 Behaviours of Success is about not just business success but personal success through understanding of self and individual leadership. It facilitates critical thinking about one’s own perceptions and processes, and how to improve and implement [changes] core to positive outcomes,” he says.

“Soft skills are hugely important in veterinary practice, and indeed all of life.

I see this as an area where the profession has, and many businesses and individuals have, room for improvement.”

Kevin agrees the seminar series hits the right notes for the wider veterinary profession. It encompasses ways to enhance wellbeing and self-realisation (which involves a deep understanding of your individual strengths and weaknesses)

VetScript October 2020 – 47

IN THE WORKPLACE

FORGE YOUR OWN SUCCESS PATH WHAT DOES THE 10 BEHAVIOURS OF SUCCESS COURSE INVOLVE? » Three 75-minute seminars over Zoom, once a week, for three weeks. » Participants will be given important reading before each seminar.

WHAT YOU’LL GET » A code for accessing the 10 Behaviours app. » A downloadable notebook for use during the seminar. » Other tools and resources to help you achieve success. » Up to 14 CPD activity hours.

WHAT DOES IT COST? The course is $470 for the first registration of an NZVA member. Any additional staff registrations are $420. For non-members, the first registration is $940 and then $840 for any additional staff registrations.

WHEN IS IT? Participants have the choice of two course dates. The first course starts 21 October:

Preparation phase 7–21 October 2020

Seminars 21 October, 28 October and 4 November 2020

Register by 14 October 2020 The second course starts 18 November:

Preparation phase 4–18 November 2020

Seminars 18 November, 25 November and 2 December 2020

Register by 11 November 2020

HOW DO I REGISTER? To learn more, or to register, visit www.nzva.org.nz/professionals/ edhub/business.

48 – VetScript October 2020

PARTICIPANTS WILL COME AWAY WITH WAYS TO REDUCE UNWANTED STRESS, BALANCE THE PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL... BE BETTER TEAM PLAYERS AND IMPROVE PRODUCTIVITY.

that can increase self-confidence. He says there are also business sustainability benefits, with better teamwork and more effective communication contributing to increased staff retention, positivity, productivity and profitability.

A positive effect on clinic teams is something Tim believes could be a real boon. “My sense is that if practices enrolled personnel from different generations and areas (reception, administration, veterinary nursing, senior veterinarian and junior veterinarian) and they undertook the course with collegiality and honesty, practices would have a fantastic vehicle for facilitating understanding and moving towards a high-performance culture.”

David says everyone contributes to clinic success, including management and support staff. He encourages those from the same clinic or practice to attend the course together. “Because most of us work as part of a team, it’s critically important that we understand each other so we can be effective together. Between seminar sessions you can talk about what you’re learning and what you can do locally to assist each other on your success journeys,” he says.

David says that, ideally, at least two people who work together should attend at the same time, as this encourages discussions about the ideas covered in the course in the context of their work team. It makes sense to anyone who believes in the saying: ‘Teamwork makes the dream work’.

When it comes to his own success, David remembers it was a big day when he understood his life purpose. David agrees with the Mark Twain saying:

“There have been two important days in my life – the day I was born, and the day I discovered why.”

After working out his life purpose, David went on to carve out a career that was successful by any measure.

He started out as a management consultant at PricewaterhouseCoopers and had a stint in academia, lecturing in management at the Victoria University of Wellington Business School, where he completed a PhD in management.

He has also been a director of a global education software firm, a best-selling author and the dean of a business school in Europe.

His CV makes for impressive reading, but for David, as for most of us, there have been ups and downs. He says he is really glad to have had difficult times and situations to overcome in his life. “Those testing times were when I learned the most and developed some skills I had not had before.

“When I look back now, everything I’ve done has added to who I am today. As I’m getting older, I can see more clearly the connections between seemingly unrelated experiences and I’m so grateful.”

Today David runs his own education and training consultancy, through which he helps people and organisations to achieve greater success through seminars like the one being offered to NZVA members.

Every team needs a game-plan, according to David. With that in mind, a seminar series tailored to the needs of the profession today might just be the plan your team needs to survive and thrive in the challenging ‘game of life – 2020 edition’.

When mistakes happen, we’ll be there

VP S VETERINARY

Professional Insurance Society Incorporated.

Insurance by veterinarians, for veterinarians, since 1987. www.vpis.org.nz | claims@vpis.org.nz | 04 495 1143

Photo image by Andre Guerra on Unsplash

NEW ZEALAND’S OWN

INNEWS THE WORKPLACE AND VIEWS

WHAT IF THE WORST WERE TO HAPPEN?

MAS Senior Advisor Dane Boswell knows all too well the terrible consequences of underinsuring your life and income-earning potential. Phil Belcher, MAS Life and Disability Product Manager, shares Dane’s story.

WHEN DANE WAS 20 years old, his mother died in an accident on the family property in Kerikeri. Unfortunately his parents had cancelled their life insurance just six weeks earlier, because they felt they were in a position to manage on their own – they had a successful business and were feeling secure with their income.

Dropping down to one income put Dane’s father under huge financial pressure, and meant that he had to work until he died in his late 70s. Because of this, Dane is passionate about helping MAS members to make informed decisions on protecting themselves and their families, often using his own painful personal experience as an example of a worst-case scenario.

“I want to make sure others don’t go through what my family has been through. I’ve lost both my parents and

50 – VetScript October 2020

I’m only in my mid-30s. My dad had a really tough last few years of life because no-one spoke to him about insurance with enough conviction to ensure he and Mum had enough cover in place.

“It’s definitely a sad position to be in, especially for my kids – they can’t get to know my side of the family at all. It really drives home that New Zealanders need to do away with the ‘she’ll be right’ attitude.

It’s my job to make sure members don’t end up in the same situation and are protected in case the worst happens.”

Life insurance pays a cash lump sum if you pass away or are diagnosed as terminally ill. It’s usually used by your loved ones to repay the mortgage or for childcare and education. Income protection insurance pays a regular amount of up to 75% of your usual earnings if you can’t work due to an

illness or injury. It also continues to top up your income to 75% of your previous earnings as you return to full-time work.

The Accident Compensation Corporation only covers you if the injury is caused by an accident and there’s a cap on how much of your income will be covered.

KIWIS ARE UNDERINSURED Research commissioned by the Financial Services Council has revealed that a lot of Kiwis are underinsuring their lives despite being aware of the importance of insurance. Only nine percent of Kiwis are adequately insured for critical illness, 11% have enough income protection/ mortgage repayment insurance, and 29% have adequate life insurance (Financial Services Council, 2020).

Dane believes that a person’s underinsurance comes down to a

IMAGERY: ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

IN THE WORKPLACE

combination of their being uninformed and an attitude that ‘it won’t happen to me’.

“People aren’t really willing to delve into ‘what if?’ scenarios. A lot of our members generate really good incomes.

But some fail to realise that their ability to earn good incomes is their biggest asset and it needs to be adequately protected,” he says.

DON’T SET AND FORGET Dane sees members making mistakes that are easily avoided. His advice is to ensure you keep your advisor in the loop if your circumstances change, have your policies reviewed frequently and, if you haven’t had this sort of insurance before, make time for an in-depth conversation with your advisor to understand your best options.

“The most prevalent mistake I see is people taking out policies and not

reviewing them when their situations change. I often see policies that have been in place for 10–15 years without anyone looking at them, and they’re no longer applicable to those people’s situations,” he says. “You could get married or divorced, have a child, buy a house, take on other dependants like elderly parents, change job roles or have an income increase. All these life events should trigger a review of your life insurance and might change the advice an advisor will give.

“Quite often I see people with life cover amounts that may not actually be required.

In some situations a better option is to put some premium into recovery or income security benefits instead.”

TAKE ACTION NOW If you’d like to discuss income protection insurance, you can book a free

appointment with a MAS advisor. They don’t receive a commission, so you can rest assured they have your best interests at heart.

REFERENCE: Financial Services Council. Gambling on life: The problem of underinsurance. www.fsc.org.nz/ site/fsc1/Gambling%20on%20Life%20-%20 The%20Problem%20of%20Underinsurance%20 -%20Financial%20Services%20Council%20-%20 January%202020.pdf (accessed 20 August 2020 Auckland, New Zealand, 2020

This article is of a general nature and is not a substitute for professional and individually tailored financial, business or legal advice. © Medical Assurance Society New Zealand Limited 2020.

“We’re with the insurer that’s started a foundation to fund health initiatives.”

MAS has been busy doing good lately. We’ve established a foundation to fund health initiatives in our communities, we’ve been awarded Consumer NZ People’s Choice for house, contents, car and life insurance for four years running, and we’ve continued to deliver outstanding service to Members, like Kristine and Kris, especially at claims time.

Choose the insurer that invests in the health of Kiwis.

Find out more at mas.co.nz Kristine Gonzalez Videographer Kris Lewis-Fox Teacher and MAS Member

VetScript October 2020 – 51

NEWS AND VIEWS

WHEN can I check for…?

Sandra Forsyth, Clinical Pathologist for SVS Laboratories, offers some recommendations on when you should take samples in relation to medications.

A QUESTION THAT veterinarians commonly ask staff at diagnostic laboratories is, “When do I take a sample in relation to a particular medication?”

The following are recommendations for some of the more common situations.

MONITORING THYROID FUNCTION Hyperthyroid cats In cats on antithyroid treatments (including prescription diets), serum T4 is usually assessed 10–20 days after starting therapy or adjusting the dosage, then at three- to six-month intervals once the cats are stable.

In hyperthyroid cats there is no significant relationship between T4 and dosing interval or post-pill times in a 24-hour period. Consequently, the timing of a blood test is not important if the cat is consistently receiving medication. T4 can return to pre-treatment values within 48 hours of stopping medication.

52 – VetScript October 2020

T4 is not the only parameter that should be monitored in cats on antithyroid medication. Adverse reactions occur in about 20% of cats receiving methimazole/ carbimazole, and are usually seen in the first three months of treatment. Mild changes in the complete blood count may be seen and a small proportion of cats (less than 5%) may develop severe leukopenia or thrombocytopenia.

Recommendations for monitoring T4 levels in cats after radioactive iodine (I-131) are usually offered by the treatment providers, but in general levels are monitored at one, three, six and 12 months post-treatment and then every six to 12 months thereafter.

The glomerular filtration rate falls during treatment for hyperthyroidism and this can unmask renal dysfunction, with about 30% of cats developing chronic kidney disease as their hyperthyroidism is controlled. Baseline urine-specific gravity of less than 1.035 was found to

be the most sensitive (90.9%) marker for predicting post-treatment I-131 azotaemia, whereas baseline creatine (>140umol/L) was most specific (DeMonaco et al., 2020). It is probably similar for cats on oral medications.

Moderate to severe non-thyroidal illness can suppress total T4 concentration in normal, hyperthyroid and treated cats, and this should be kept in mind when interpreting results.

Hypothyroid dogs The best method for monitoring thyroid hormone replacement therapy in hypothyroid dogs is uncertain. There are considerable day-to-day variations in peak (four- to six-hour post-pill) serum T4 concentration, and altering a patient’s thyroid medication based on a single result should be done carefully and in conjunction with the clinical response to the medication.

Therapeutic monitoring is usually carried out two to three weeks after starting or adjusting the thyroid medication, and then at six- to 12monthly intervals. A serum sample for T4 is taken four to six hours after starting or adjusting medication.

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IN THE LAB

THE EFFECT OF GLUCOCORTICOIDS ON TOTAL T4 Glucocorticoids can reduce serum T4 concentration. A single dose of shortacting glucocorticoid produces no significant change in T4 concentration.

However, long-term treatment can have a significant effect and glucocorticoid should be stopped for at least four weeks, and preferably six to eight weeks, before testing thyroid function. Similarly, dogs with hyperadrenocorticism frequently show suppressed T4 concentrations.

MONITORING ADRENAL FUNCTION Hyperadrenocorticoid dogs When trilostane was first introduced, adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulation became the default test for monitoring the treatment response as a hangover from mitotane monitoring.

However, the use of ACTH stimulation for monitoring trilostane efficacy has not been supported by studies, which show that clinical control is only loosely related to cortisol concentration following adrenal stimulation. One study found that pre-trilostane cortisol concentrations deliver as good an estimate of adrenal control, providing that the dog was clinically well controlled and was not showing signs of illness or hypoadrenocorticism at the time of testing (Macfarlane et al., 2016).

A serum sample taken zero to one hour before the next trilostane dose provided evidence of good control when the cortisol concentration was 40–138nmol/L (variations in analysis methods mean that reference intervals will differ between laboratories).

Stressed and excited dogs may show higher cortisol concentrations (Boretti et al., 2018). ACTH stimulation remains the test of choice in dogs who show poor control or signs of illness.

After starting trilostane, it is recommended that the patient be checked at two weeks to confirm overdosage hasn’t occurred. In many dogs the serum

ONE STUDY FOUND THAT PRE-TRILOSTANE CORTISOL CONCENTRATIONS DELIVER AS GOOD AN ESTIMATE OF ADRENAL CONTROL, PROVIDING THAT THE DOG WAS CLINICALLY WELL CONTROLLED AND WAS NOT SHOWING SIGNS OF ILLNESS OR HYPOADRENOCORTICISM AT THE TIME OF TESTING...

cortisol concentration continues to fall over the ensuing weeks without an increase in dose. Cortisol is rechecked in another two to four weeks then at threemonthly intervals.

Hypoadrenocorticoid dogs While not fitting with the ‘when do I test?’ theme, the difficulty in obtaining ACTH (Synacthen) raises the question of alternative tests for the diagnosis of a suspect hypoadrenocorticoid dog.

The urinary cortisol-creatinine ratio (UCCR) has been found to have a high sensitivity and specificity to detect hypoadrenocorticism when the UCCR is less than three (Rowland et al., 2018).

However, other authors have found UCCR may be less than three in urine samples collected at home, but generally not in samples collected at the clinic (Citron et al., 2020).

THE EFFECT OF GLUCOCORTICOIDS ON SKIN BIOPSIES Glucocorticoids should be stopped at least two and preferably four weeks before biopsying skin lesions.

WITHDRAWAL TIMES IN ANIMALS ON ANTIBIOTICS Ears When culturing ear swabs, a three-day withdrawal from topical medications is usually sufficient, although if bacteria are seen on cytology despite treatment, culturing could be done immediately.

Skin If there is no response to antibiotic therapy, immediate culture would theoretically be acceptable. However, 48 hours without medication prior to culturing is recommended.

Urine When culturing urine, about five elimination half-lives of the drug should pass before a sample is taken. This is about three to five days when the antibiotic is administered two or three times per day, and five to seven days for once-a-day medication.

REFERENCES: Boretti F, Musella C, Burkhardt W, KuemmerleFraune C, Riond B, Reusch C, Siber-Ruckstuhl N. Comparison of two prepill cortisol concentrations in dogs with hypercortisolism treated with trilostane.

Veterinary Research 14(1), 417, doi: 10.1186/s12917018-1750-3, 2018 Citron LE, Weinstein NM, Littman MP, Foster JD. Urinary cortisol-creatinine and protein-creatinine ratios in urine samples from healthy dogs collected at home and in hospital. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine 34(2), 777–82, 2020 DeMonaco SM, Panciera DL, Morre W, Conway T, Were S. Symmetric dimethylarginine in hyperthyroid cats before and after treatment with radioactive iodine. Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery 22(6), 531–8, 2020 Macfarlane PL, Parkin T, Ramsey I. Pretrilostane and three-hour post-trilostane cortisol to monitor trilostane therapy in dogs. Veterinary Record 179(23), 597 doi:10.1136/vr.103744, 2016 Rowland A, Birkenheuer AJ, Mamo L, Lunn KF. Comparison of urine cortisol:creatinine ratio and basal cortisol for the diagnosis of canine hypoadrenocorticism. Proceedings from the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine Conference 2018 (Abstract EN13)

VetScript October 2020 – 53

IN THE LAB

Liver enzymes and bile acids – what do they tell us?

Graham Swinney, Medical Affairs Veterinarian for IDEXX Laboratories and internal medicine consultant, considers the most effective ways to get information on liver function.

IN-HOUSE LIVER-ENZYME MEASUREMENT is routine practice for clinical veterinarians, whether it’s needed as part of a pre-anaesthetic screen, an evaluation of an unwell patient or a preventive care strategy.

A number of liver enzymes provide clues to the nature of liver changes such as hepatocellular damage or cholestasis.

For example: » alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase are indicators of hepatocellular damage, although the latter is less specific given that it is also a marker of muscle damage » alkaline phosphatase is produced in the hepatocytes in response to cholestasis, but can also be sourced from bone (osteoblastic activity)

54 – VetScript October 2020

» an alkaline phosphatase isoenzyme can be induced in dogs through a glucocorticoid effect » gamma glutamyl transferase comes from biliary epithelium, and also increases in response to cholestasis.

However, liver enzymes do not provide us with any specific information about hepatic function. Reduced levels of indirect markers of hepatic function (such as urea, glucose, cholesterol and albumin) may suggest hepatic dysfunction, but they may all be low for other reasons.

Conversely, the absence of reduced levels of these markers does not exclude the possibility of hepatic dysfunction.

To gain specific information on liver function, it is useful to consider ammonia tests (including the ammonia tolerance test) and bile acids. The former, while

useful, have technical challenges; bile acids are more straightforward to measure.

Bile acids are produced in the liver from cholesterol and stored in the gall bladder. The ingestion of food stimulates gall bladder contraction – a process where the bile acids aid in fat absorption by micellising the fat, and are primarily resorbed in the ileum. Once in the portal circulation, the bile acids are extracted by hepatocytes in a very efficient process.

This means fasted bile acids are relatively low, whereas a two-hour postprandial sample challenges the system.

The reasons for elevated bile acids include: hepatocellular loss or failure; portovascular anomalies (portosystemic shunts or microvascular dysplasia/portal atresia), which allow the portal blood to bypass the liver; and cholestasis.

Signs that it might be appropriate to measure bile acids include: » changes in biochemical profile, such as increased liver enzymes in an unwell patient » hypoalbuminaemia » hypoglycaemia » hypocholesterolaemia » low blood urea.

You might also need to measure bile acids when assessing a patient for hepatic dysfunction, as the signs can be vague and affect other body systems such as the nervous system, gastrointestinal tract and urinary tract. Signs may include unexplained seizures, other central nervous system signs such as disorientation, poor growth, weight loss, ammonium biurate urolithiasis or crystalluria, microhepatica, and increased liver enzymes for patients on phenobarbitone. Note there is little value in measuring bile acids in patients with hyperbilirubinaemia.

The Catalyst Dx Chemistry Analyzer now has the ability to test bile acids and measure them in real time. This offers great benefits for veterinarians assessing patients for liver dysfunction, when patients have elevated liver enzymes on pre-anaesthetic testing or there are concerns about their hepatic function.

IMAGERY: ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

NZVA Veterinary Business Branch

“Success is found at the intersection of passion, skills, and needs�.

David Keane (PhD)

THE TEN BEHAVIOURS OF SUCCESS Online courses starting 21 October and 18 November 2020.

Find your path to success Dramatically reduce unwanted stress Increase work-life balance Work less, achieve more!

Register now at nzva.org.nz/professionals/edhub/business

NEWS AND VIEWS

SHEEP AND BEEF CATTLE VETERINARIANS

On-farm parasitology skills

ONLINE | WORKSHOP

ONLINE | WORKSHOP

ONLINE

Develop effective and sustainable parasite control programmes with this comprehensive course. » Date: 28 September–18 December 2020 » Tutors: Clive Bingham | Ginny Dodunski » Register now at nzva.org.nz/professionals/edhub/sbd

SHEEP, BEEF CATTLE AND DEER VETERINARIANS

On-farm consultancy skills Improve your ability to engage with farmers to improve their farm businesses. » Start online course now! | Workshop: 26 November 2020 | Christchurch » Tutors: Graeme Dixon | Lab Wilson » Register now at nzva.org.nz/professionals/edhub/sbd

DAIRY CATTLE VETERINARIANS

Bovine ultrasound Learn the latest techniques in bovine ultrasound and improve your confidence. » Online: December 2020 | Workshop: To be confirmed » Tutor: Steve Cranefield » Register now at nzva.org.nz/professionals/edhub/dairy

COMPANION ANIMAL VETERINARIANS

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

ONLINE

CPD Pathway | Eligible for five Massey University credits.

» Authors: Sandra Forsyth | Kate Hill | Andrew Worth » Register now at nzva.org.nz/professionals/edhub/companion

Check out www.nzva.org.nz/professionals/edhub 56 – VetScript October 2020

CPD Pathway | Eligible for five Massey University credits.

NEWS AND VIEWS

ALL VETERINARY PERSONNEL

The 10 Behaviours of Success Add practical skills to your toolkit to thrive in your work and at home.

ONLINE

» Course 1: 21 October–4 November | Course 2: 18 November–2 December 2020 » Tutor: David Keane (PhD) » Register now at nzva.org.nz/professionals/edhub/business

ALL VETERINARY PERSONNEL

CONFERENCE

NZVA Wildlife Conference Looking to increase your skills in bird and wildlife triage? Join us in Nelson for the annual NZVA Wildlife Society conference! » Date: 27–29 November 2020 | Location: Nelson » Lectures | Workshops | Field trips » Find out more at nzva.org.nz/professionals/edhub/conference

ALL VETERINARY PERSONNEL

CONFERENCE

NZVA and NZVNA conference: Stronger together Due to venue unavailability, the date and location for the 2021 NZVA and NZVNA conference will be confirmed shortly. » NZVA workshops will be held after the conference. » Watch this space. More information coming soon!

New Zealand Veterinary Association (NZVA) Conference

New Zealand Veterinary Nursing Association (NZVNA) Conference

Date and location to be advised – due to unforeseen venue unavailability.

Date and location to be advised – due to unforeseen venue unavailability.

WELLBEING HUB

ALL VETERINARY PERSONNEL

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 » More information at nzva.org.nz/professionals/wbhub

Check out www.nzva.org.nz/professionals/edhub VetScript October 2020 – 57

NEWS AND VIEWS

WELLBEING HUB

ALL VETERINARY PERSONNEL

Professional skills for veterinary teams Learn techniques that promote team and workplace effectiveness. » Free course for NZVA members! » Tutor: Michael Meehan » Watch this space! More information coming soon!

ALL VETERINARY PERSONNEL

2020 Leadership ProSkills programme

CRAMPTON

Consulting Group

Effectively lead your team and manage your practice.

ONLINE

» Start now! » Tutors: Sue Crampton | Mark Hardwick | Rosie Overfield | Deb Render » Register now at nzva.org.nz/professionals/edhub/business

ALL VETERINARY PERSONNEL

2020 Leadership intelligence programme Contemporary and relevant leadership training.

ONLINE

» Start now! » Optional coaching support and implementation programme available. » Register now at nzva.org.nz/professionals/edhub/business

CPD ACCREDITATION

ALL VETERINARY PERSONNEL

Looking at CPD from another organisation?

Be sure to check for the NZVA accreditation tick! » Quality CPD guaranteed » Animal ethics and welfare standards assured » More information available at nzva.org.nz/professionals/edhub/accreditation

Check out www.nzva.org.nz/professionals/edhub 58 – VetScript October 2020

CRAMPTON

Consulting Group

ONLINE

NEWS AND VIEWS

branch of the nzva

Fundamental skills and procedures Increase skills and knowledge on commonly encountered diseases and procedures.

LARGE ANIMAL VETERINARY TECHNICIANS Large animal veterinary technicians play a valuable role in the provision of high-level services and maintaining strong relationships with clients.

By completing this course you will develop your knowledge and broaden your understanding of a range of production animal health issues including vaccination programmes, colostrum management and calf scours.

Learn best-practice techniques and increase your proficiency in essential practical skills such as blood and tissue sampling, bolus application, disbudding and teat removal.

Take the next step in your career as a veterinary technician and increase your job satisfaction with this comprehensive course now!

DATE AND FORMAT 23 November–13 December 2020 (three weeks) Recorded presentations, case studies and quizzes

TUTORS Kristen Baxter BVSc BSc(Agr) Justine Britton CRAT Emma Cuttance BVSc MVS(Epi) David Dymock BVSc(Dist) DipVCS Ben Hodgson BVSc

PRICE NZVA member: $290 Non-member: $580 Prices are in NZD and include 15% GST.

CPD POINTS Participants can expect to complete six CPD activity hours.

nzva.org.nz/professionals/edhub/dairy For more educational resources and courses visit www.nzva.org.nz/professionals/edhub VetScript October 2020 – 59

NEWS CLASSIFIEDS AND VIEWS

GREYTOWN Full- or part-time veterinary position with partnership prospects!

If you have aspirations to eventually own your own practice, this position may be for you as it has partnership prospects for the right applicant.

Vetcare Animal Hospital in Greytown is a well-established privately owned practice with no corporate involvement.

We are looking for a motivated and passionate veterinary professional with both clinical and surgical experience. We are looking for someone who would like to utilise and develop small animal medicine and surgical skills to deliver a gold standard of care to our pets and their owners.

Would you like to work with other skilled professionals who take pride in providing the utmost care and compassion to their longstanding and growing client base?

Would you enjoy working together with one other full-time veterinarian in a practice with modern equipment?

We can offer you: • an established privately owned practice with no corporate involvement, capable of handling most medical and surgical cases in house • a fun and friendly, personal atmosphere where teamwork and collaboration are paramount • a great, stable team including three fully qualified veterinary nurses • a fantastic opportunity to join a non-competitive, progressive and passionate atmosphere that provides allocated research time and case management discussion with colleagues who really believe in making a difference in the lives of pets, pet parents and the profession itself • a compliant, friendly and appreciative client base • adequate case work-up as we encourage our clients to get pet health insurance • current NZVA membership and paid annual practising certificates • encouragement and support towards CPD, including one week of study leave per year • a favourable roster aimed at maximising work-life balance • standard leave provision.

Our clinic Vetcare Animal Hospital strives to be the most trusted and respected veterinary care provider in the area – taking the stress out of pet care for our clients. We are an established clinic of 21 years. Our clinic features: • separate consultation rooms • a large surgical suite including the latest monitoring equipment • a large treatment room and dental area with new dental equipment • in-house laboratory with full complete blood count, biochemistry and microscopy equipment • digital X-ray and digital dental radiology • ultrasound • Doppler blood pressure monitoring capability • an underwater treadmill and hydrotherapy tank • low-level laser therapy.

Skills and experience The ideal candidate possesses the following skills and expertise: • Sound veterinary medical skills will be essential.

• Competency in handling surgical cases (routine and non-routine) – our ideal candidate will have an interest in developing, or have some experience with, orthopaedic surgery.

• An ability to naturally build a rapport with clients through excellent listening skills.

• A caring, compassionate and friendly client communication style.

• An ability to document and convey a concise history and treatment plan.

• Good time management with a keen sense of prioritisation.

• Organisational skills to contribute to a smooth, efficient work flow.

• An ability to contribute to the further development of the team as a whole.

• Ultrasound skills are an advantage.

Job benefits and perks We offer a generous, above-average salary package, commensurate with experience and level of competence, and will include some industry memberships.

Current registration with VCNZ is required.

The practices are centrally located in New Zealand. Wairarapa has beautiful mountains, beaches and walkways and offers a wonderful lifestyle. There are many, varied recreational and sporting activities on offer in the area, as well as world-class restaurants and bars.

If this sounds like the perfect role and workplace for you, please email your resume including a cover letter to vetcare@xtra.co.nz as we would love to meet you.

60 – VetScript October 2020

DARFIELD

Lead companion animal veterinarian We appreciate that one of the special things in the world is the human-animal bond. But of course, you know that – that’s why you’re in this job!

We are looking for an experienced companion animal veterinarian to roll up their sleeves and join our Darfield clinic. This is a full-time position, starting immediately.

We are seeking someone who has a breadth of experience and who aspires to be a team leader – this person will lead the small animal veterinary team and interact with the other members of the clinic leadership team.

You will oversee our busy small animal practice as well as immerse yourself in the day-to-day clinical caseload. You will lead a team of veterinary nurses and other companion animal veterinarians to continue to grow and develop our modern, well-resourced clinic. Treat it as your own.

Relish the challenge.

To succeed in this role you will have: • two or more years’ veterinary experience • a positive ‘can-do’ attitude, be organised and self-motivated and enjoy learning on the job • excellent communication skills, both verbal and written • a strong customer service ethic.

Excited about the possibilities yet?

You should be, because you’ll be joining one of New Zealand’s largest veterinary groups, so you can expect plenty of support to do your best work in the role, in terms of resources and people, and a range of benefits. You’ll step into a highly collaborative work culture that values innovation and future-focused thinking.

There’s never been a better time to take the next step in your career. You’ll grow your skills beyond clinical practice and work and live in a location most would envy.

Are you ready for a refreshing change of scene – in more ways than one? You’ll be working in one of the most stunning areas of New Zealand. There’s a huge range of off-the-clock activities available in the region, from snow sports to hiking and fishing.

Has your time come?

Apply by emailing your CV and covering letter to careers@vetent.co.nz.

NEWS CLASSIFIEDS AND VIEWS

WHITIANGA

AUCKLAND

ASHBURTON

Small animal veterinarian A permanent, full-time position is available at our mixed animal practice in Whitianga with an on-call roster of 1:4 weekends.

We offer an above-average salary for the right candidate!

Applicants are required to have at least two years’ experience predominantly or exclusively in small animal veterinary medicine. You will be based in clinic and not expected to attend any large animal calls during weekday working hours, although experience for after-hours callouts would be a bonus.

Whitianga is on the east coast of the Coromandel Peninsula. An envious location surrounded by beautiful beaches, rugged bush interiors and a growing, vibrant town. A truly wonderful place for those that enjoy the great outdoors and an excellent place to bring up children.

We promote a relaxed, supportive, family-orientated working environment within a brand new, purpose-built clinic. We have a dedicated theatre and radiology suite with ultrasound, digital radiography, dental machine and in-house laboratory. Our senior team consists of a companion animal veterinarian with 22 years’ experience and a large animal veterinarian with 12 years’ experience. We have friendly, experienced veterinary nurses to support you.

Please send your CV to whitiangavets@gmail.com or contact Dawn Thurgood on 021 048 8514 with any queries.

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

Part-time companion animal veterinarian We are looking for a part-time companion animal veterinarian to join our busy fiveveterinarian practice to replace one of our retiring veterinarians.

Our ideal candidate is a committed and motivated veterinarian who wants to deliver high-quality service to meet the needs of our clientele as part of a closeknit and supportive team. We ideally would like someone wanting to work three to four days a week with some additional days to cover leave.

The clinic is well established and is situated in a pleasant suburb close to a number of beaches and local amenities.

We have an excellent, varied client base who want to do the best for their pets.

There is plenty of scope for diagnostic work-ups and to deliver treatment of a high standard in this role. Our focus is to deliver high-quality veterinary care on an individual basis. We have an experienced, supportive and fun-loving team of five veterinarians and six veterinary nurses.

Work hours are scheduled to give an excellent work-life balance. This does involve some evening work.

NZVA and VCNZ fees are paid for. We also make a significant contribution to CPD. There is no after-hours work. Working on Saturdays is rostered on a shared 1:4 or 1:5 basis. The clinic is very well equipped with the usual surgical equipment, digital X-rays, full in-house laboratory system and ultrasound.

Preference will be given to a veterinarian with experience but all applications will be considered. Competitive remuneration based on experience.

We look forward to your application.

Please contact: Iain Malcolm Email: iain@bbvet.co.nz

MARKETPLACE 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

Veterinarian We are looking for an enthusiastic team player to join our dairy-only practice.

We are a privately owned practice based in Ashburton. We are a team of five veterinarians, three veterinary technicians and two office staff. We pride ourselves on having a great culture of support and teamwork and having fun!

Ashburton is a brilliant base to explore anywhere in the South Island – skiers will love having Mt Hutt on the doorstep.

We use Infovet software and have established systems in place to offer the best possible dairy service to our progressive dairy clients.

Your fit within the team is more important than experience level. We can offer you: • a competitive salary • paid CPD • four weeks’ paid holiday • a work truck, laptop and smartphone.

Check us out at www.dairyvets.co.nz or on social media. Email your CV to anna@dairyvets.co.nz.

AUCKLAND

Dental residency Auckland Veterinary Dentistry and Oral Surgery is an American Veterinary Dental College approved residency site. The residency position can be either three years full-time or five years part-time at our practice in Auckland.

Russell Tucker is the residency director.

Applicants must have completed a oneyear internship or have at least two years’ experience in companion animal practice.

The successful applicant will receive the necessary training to be able to submit their credentials to the AVDC. The full details of the full-time and part-time residencies are available on the college’s website, www.avdc.org.

Please forward a letter of intent, CV and references to: Russell Tucker Board Certified Veterinary Dentist russellt@aucklandvetdentist.co.nz

VetScript October 2020 – 61

NEWS CLASSIFIEDS AND VIEWS

CANTERBURY

CENTRAL OTAGO

Full-time veterinarian

Full-time veterinarian

Our team is seeking a fulltime, permanent veterinarian to join our enthusiastic and skilled clinical team in our purpose-built facility. We offer a high standard of patient care and are able to offer advanced diagnostics, as well as surgical and medical treatments in a clinic that has been practising for 20 years. The clinic provides a variety of diagnostic equipment including endoscopy, ultrasound, ECG, radiography, fluoroscopy and arthroscopy, and has access to advanced imaging modalities.

The role will be predominantly small animal work (80%) with some large animal and equine practice, including a 1:3 Saturday halfday shift doing small animal consults and 1:5 week large animal on call. A practice vehicle will be available for work-related use.

Suitable applicants will have a high standard and progressive clinical outlook, ideally with a minimum of two years’ clinical experience but all applicants will be considered, including sole small animal veterinarians. Professional development is encouraged to provide the best possible standard of care and some training and development is available in house.

An initial three-month trial period would apply to assess suitability for the role, for both parties.

Send expressions of interest to: Nick Page Rolleston Veterinary Services 5 Brookside Road Rolleston 7614 Canterbury Email: info@rollyvets.co.nz

Veterinary Centre Oamaru has an opportunity for a fulltime veterinarian to join our current team at our Ranfurly clinic in Central Otago. The Maniototo (www.maniototo.co.nz) has the Queenstown and Wanaka playgrounds on its doorstep and offers a wide range of recreational pursuits including skiing, hunting, tramping, mountain biking and team sports. Our practice has excellent facilities and support staff in the area, with a purpose-built veterinary clinic.

This is a truly mixed animal branch of our practice with a strong focus on sheep and beef work. Ranfurly also services seven dairy farms. The balance of the caseload is small animals with a predominance of farm dogs. For nine months of the year, after-hours is shared with a neighbouring Ranfurly practice, making it a 1:6 weekend roster.

This position presents an opportunity for a veterinarian who would just love to live and work in a spectacular, powerful environment. The rural people in this high country area are rewarding to work with.

Veterinary Centre Oamaru currently employs 30 veterinarians and has a high degree of collegial support. Structured CPD is highly encouraged. We have a philosophy of encouraging and supporting individual veterinarians to develop their area of special interest.

We will offer a very competitive salary package for this position, depending on the successful candidate’s experience and the level of responsibility they take on.

If you think this opportunity may be right for you, please contact us to discuss it further or send your CV to: Veterinary Centre Oamaru Attn: Kevin Kearney 311 Thames Street Oamaru 9400 Phone: 03 434 566 Email: kevin@vet111.co.nz

VetStaff – proud to be 100% Kiwi owned and operated.

Dedicated to finding permanent and locum veterinary staff for New Zealand’s veterinary clinics.

To apply, contact: Julie South Phone: 0800 483 869 or 027 282 4155 Email: jobs@vetstaff.co.nz

www.vetstaff.co.nz

62 – VetScript October 2020

KAITĀIA

Companion animal veterinarian Are you looking to leave city life far behind, move north and become part of a friendly team in our semi-rural community?

TopVets currently has a vacancy for a companion animal veterinarian in our rural mixed animal practice in Kaitāia.

We are a mid-sized practice of five veterinarians operating out of two clinics in the sub-tropical Far North.

The Far North has a relaxed, stress-free lifestyle and has a fantastic outdoor playground for tramping, water sports, fishing, tourism etc.

The small animal side of our practice is busy and we have a high surgical workload – both general and orthopaedic.

We are equipped with the latest large and small animal ultrasound, digital radiography, IDEXX in-house laboratory, infusion pumps and more.

You will be working with a team of qualified and NZVNA-accredited veterinary nurses.

Continuing education is actively supported and encouraged.

Private medical and surgical health insurance is provided.

This position is full-time, but parttime could be an option for the right candidate.

If this sounds like you, please email your CV and covering letter to lloyd@topvets. co.nz. For further enquiries please feel free to contact Lloyd on 027 242 1395.

Kaitāia Clinic 17 Matthews Avenue Kaitāia 0410 Phone: 09 408 2838 Fax: 09 408 2839 Email: admin@topvets.co.nz Website: www.topvets.co.nz Coopers Beach Clinic 182 State Highway 10 Coopers Beach 0420 Postal Address: PO Box 409, Kaitāia Phone: 09 406 2216 Fax: 09 406 2236

NEWS CLASSIFIEDS AND VIEWS

OREWA Orewa Vet Hospital Companion animal veterinarian required for our 100% small animal practice We are in a modern, purpose-built clinic that has recently had a significant upgrade.

We are an independent practice and as such would give you plenty of scope to pursue your special interests and foster your own clientele.

This is a full-time, permanent position but we would consider part-time for the right person.

Orewa is an exceptionally beautiful coastal area just north of Auckland which can cater for all lifestyle requirements.

Check out our website www.orewavethospital.co.nz.

Email Brett Finlayson at brettfinlayson@hotmail.com or call him on 027 291 5515 to have a chat.

MORRINSVILLE

Veterinarian Looking for a work-life balance? Maybe you shouldn’t have been a veterinarian then… but if you want to get close to that Holy Grail of loving work and having a life, then come work with us at MVP Vets in Morrinsville. It’s a way better town than it’s ever given credit for.

We boast a generally wonderful client base and a fantastic work environment. We try to enrich our clients’ lives not only with wonderful service and conversation but also through great cow management. We mostly treat dairy cows but occasionally there is the odd moment of small animal work.

We have some flexibility regarding hours and days to suit your life. After-hours is 1:7 nights and 1:4 weekends during the busy season, which can extend out during the quieter months.

You will be compensated well for working in a job that is your life calling, and if you are keen and interested then there is also the possibility of buying in to the clinic.

Send your CV to mvpvets@gmail.com or call Scott on 027 439 9955.

HĀWERA

NELSON

Companion animal veterinarian

Companion animal veterinarian

• Learning and Development • Opportunities • Great company vision and culture Taranaki Veterinary Centre is a large veterinary practice with clinics in Hāwera, Manaia, Stratford, Pātea and Waverley, employing 29 veterinarians and 44 support staff.

Due to growth, our Hāwera branch is looking for an exceptional companion animal veterinarian with the ‘X’ factor to join our leading veterinary practice.

We focus on providing a challenging and fun workplace; we encourage staff development in an environment of support and reward. Our aim is to provide best-practice patient care.

Our Hāwera branch facilities include four consultation rooms, two surgeries, an isolation building, digital radiography X-ray suite, preparation area, ultrasound machine and full IDEXX in-house laboratory suite. The clinic is equipped for most rural and urban services.

The clinic currently has five FTE (five fulltime companion animal veterinarians) and nine veterinary nurses.

Fantastic team in great location seeks companion animal veterinarian Due to continued expansion we’re looking for an experienced veterinarian to join our privately owned companion animal practice in Nelson.

We are keen to support areas of special interest and we have a veterinarian with a UK certificate in surgery who is happy to train you if that’s your thing.

We have digital X-ray, the latest IDEXX in-house laboratory, a superduper ultrasound machine and, most importantly, an awesome coffee machine.

We have a camera tower with rigid and flexible scopes, and we perform laparoscopic surgery. After-hours is shared with local practices so there is limited on-call. To help work-life balance you can choose to work a four-day week.

There would be a share of weekend work but not all would be duty weekends.

Nelson sits on the coast and is surrounded by mountains, catering for every sport imaginable. We have some of the best biking trails in the world, and you can kitesurf, trek, whitewater kayak, adventure race, paddle with orcas and dolphins and more. Or just relax in the vineyards or numerous restaurants and cafés.

Salary is commensurate with experience.

Please send all applications in strictest confidence to pm@victoryvets.co.nz.

The position offers: • an excellent remuneration package based on experience and ability • a half day off each week • NZVA membership • VCNZ registration • income protection insurance • health insurance • a generous CPD allowance.

You will: • work well in a team environment • have a strong commitment to CPD and developing your personal interests • have excellent customer service and communication skills • have accurate computer data entry and keyboard skills • have a current full New Zealand driver’s licence.

New graduates and experienced veterinarians welcome to apply.

Make a great career move this year and join our dynamic team today!

To apply for this job please send your CV and cover letter to rebecca@taranaki-vets.co.nz.

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.

VetScript October 2020 – 63

NEWS CLASSIFIEDS AND VIEWS

TE ATATŪ, PUKEKOHE, HAMILTON, NAPIER Veterinarians 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.

Join the veterinary company that CARES. Due to expansion, we are looking for veterinarians to join our established teams at some of our 22 clinics around New Zealand and additional advisory services.

VetEnt is one of New Zealand’s largest veterinary groups, with integrated brands that support the health and wellbeing of farm and companion animals at our mixed and single practice clinics.

Our vision is to provide Kiwi farm and pet owners with highly skilled staff who are passionate about proactive healthcare, and we underpin this with a commitment to breakthrough research, technology and future thinking.

Staff benefits include: + career advancement opportunities and pathways + CPD support + clinic exchange programmes + involvement in our subsidiaries such as StockCare and PureMilk + collaboration with other clinics and veterinarians around New Zealand + latest technology access and well-equipped clinics.

Hear what it’s like to work at VetEnt by scanning the QR code with your phone or contact us via email at careers@vetent.co.nz.

Skill + Tech + Heart = Care ENT

VET ENT

64 – VetScript October 2020

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, Pukekohe, Hamilton and Napier clinics; however, we are always on the lookout for talent. These roles are flexible and can be full- or part-time for the right candidates.

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.

NEWS CLASSIFIEDS AND VIEWS

RANGIORA

SOUTH WAIRARAPA

Two veterinarian opportunities available: Experienced ambulatory equine veterinarian We are looking for a confident, highly motivated and experienced veterinarian to join our team at Rangiora Equine Services. With one of our veterinarians going to the Broodmare paddock in February 2021, the role is initially a maternity cover, with a view to a more permanent position if this is mutually suitable to both parties.

The client base is a broad mixture of racing (both Thoroughbred and harness), breeding work (including fresh and frozen artificial insemination), sport horses (dressage, eventing, show jumping, polo), pleasure horses and even the occasional donkey.

The clinic is situated on 90 acres of farmland, which is also used as a breeding farm and Standard-bred training facility. We currently have a team of three equine ambulatory veterinarians and two support staff. We have up-to-date equipment such as fully wireless digital radiography systems, digital ultrasonography, endoscopy, electrocardiogram, power dental equipment and more. The purposebuilt clinic also contains a full in-house laboratory and we can perform procedures such as interleukin receptor antagonist protein and platelet-rich plasma therapies.

The clinic has full backing from a referral surgical clinic within 30 minutes’ drive. The on-call roster is 1:3 weekends and 1:3 weeknights. Weekends are not worked unless on-call. A cellphone and practice vehicle will be provided.

Rangiora is in the Canterbury region, 30 minutes north of Christchurch, 10 minutes to amazing coastlines, one hour to snow-covered mountains for skiing, year-round adventuring, jet-boating, off-road and incredible hiking. It is also the gateway to the North Canterbury wine region and has many excellent restaurants and bars close by. We have a stocked beer fridge and encourage social events and sporting ventures. With four weeks’ holiday leave per annum, plus statutory holidays, there will be plenty of time to enjoy this.

Suitable applicants should have a high standard and progressive clinical outlook, ideally with a minimum of five years’ clinical experience; however, all applicants will be considered. Excellent client communication skills and ability to work as part of a team are vital. CPD is encouraged.

How to apply Applications (including CV and the names of two references) are invited from veterinarians who want to work with energetic and enthusiastic colleagues, strive to offer the best service to clients, and enjoy a work-life balance.

Contact Rebecca Sutorius at office@rangioraequine.co.nz.

2020 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

Fixed-term maternity positions for production animal and companion animal veterinarians These positions are suitable for both experienced veterinarians and recent graduates.

Make a great career move and join our dynamic team today!

These roles would suit applicants with strong clinical and interpersonal skills to join our team in one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing regions.

• Work with energetic and motivated colleagues.

• Progress in an environment providing a high level of care and service.

• Enjoy your lifestyle in beautiful Wairarapa.

We are a mixed practice, with clinics in Masterton, Carterton, Martinborough and Featherston. We promote collegiality and ensure our veterinarians have support across our four locations. We have our own Practice Health workplace wellness programme, including structured veterinarian-to-veterinarian mentoring.

South Wairarapa Veterinary Services offers: • an exciting career opportunity working in a friendly, skilled team environment. We value our people and our culture • all the modern conveniences including digital X-ray and full IDEXX in-house laboratory at each site, extensive surgical equipment with tibial tuberosity advancements and major orthopaedics being performed in top-quality surgical facilities • encouragement for our veterinarians to develop in their areas of special interest and we provide a CPD allowance. We pay for NZVA membership and VCNZ registration • a high ratio of experienced, skilled veterinary nurses to veterinarians.

Wairarapa offers: • beautiful scenic surroundings based in the heart of the lower North Island • stunning coastline and rivers that are a playground for fishing, swimming, diving, camping, biking and scenic views.

The Tararua Ranges are a hive of activity for tramping, hut stays and a series of short walks • its famous balloon and wine festivals, community-based produce markets, and many gourmet and locally sourced foods • affordable real estate, great schools and a rural lifestyle.

Our region attracts many families and has strong social and sporting opportunities • a short, one-hour trip to Palmerston North and Wellington.

Our mission statement – South Wairarapa Veterinary Services is a caring team of veterinary professionals focused on excellent client service. We support lifelong learning with collegial support to strengthen and grow both individuals and the business. We strive for a vibrant and fun workplace.

We offer competitive remuneration, based on experience. The start date is negotiable.

We look forward to receiving your application.

Why not come join us?

Please send your CV and cover letter to: Dinah Cox Human Resources Manager dinah.cox@swvets.co.nz

VetScript October 2020 – 65

MAKING LIFE BETTER FOR THEM, MAKES LIFE BETTER. Elanco welcomes Bayer Animal Health.

Making life better means keeping pets safe and healthy. That’s why we’re coming together with Bayer Animal Health to make an even better Elanco. Together, we’re committed to providing a comprehensive suite of products along with unparalleled service and support to you, so you can do more for them.

EM-GLB-MAR-20-0068

© 2020 Elanco. Elanco and the diagonal bar are trademarks of Elanco or its affiliates. Bayer and the Bayer cross are trademarks of Bayer.