Pigs

PVA says ‘members will shape our agenda’

by

Supporters of a new veterinary group, which has pledged to put animal welfare first, have been told they will be able to influence the causes that it campaigns on. Officials of the new Progressive Veterinary Association (PVA) said public engagement and support would be critical to the success of its work during a launch event … Read more

Can a rabbit live with guinea pigs?

by

The simple answer is “no”. Both rabbits and guinea pigs are sociable creatures who absolutely require companionship, but they are very different species and as such have different needs. Having said that, if you already have a rabbit and guinea pig living together and there aren’t any problems, then definitely don’t separate them – this could create more problems than it solves. However, if you are thinking of getting guinea pigs and/or rabbits as pets, then definitely stick to one species or the other.

Read on to find out why rabbits and guinea pigs do not make ideal companions.

Read more

Is there pet insurance for guinea pigs?

by

Guinea pigs are brilliant pets. They are loving, gentle and often make a great first pet. They do, however, have complex husbandry needs. This includes essential minerals within their diets, having other guinea pigs as company and plenty of mental stimulation. Like any animal, their health can become complex and difficult to manage, meaning you may need to seek veterinary attention… and that can be expensive.

Read more

Food production antibiotic sales drop to record low

by

Vets and farmers have been praised for their efforts to curb antibiotic use after new figures showed sales for food production processes are at their lowest level since records began. Data from the UK Veterinary Antimicrobial Resistance and Sales Surveillance (VARSS) 2021 report, published by the VMD, revealed the volume of veterinary antibiotics sold for … Read more

Are rabbits really ‘exotic’?

by

According to PDSA [PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report 2022], rabbits are the third most popular pet in the UK behind dogs and cats. With an estimated 1.1 million pet rabbits in the country, that’s about a tenth of the population of pet dogs and cats, which hover around the 9 to 10 million mark. So, … Read more

Vets4Pets practices join new pet food donation program

by

Vets4Pets clients are being given the chance to help pets in need following the launch of a new food donation scheme. The initiative is being trialled at six Pets at Home stores across the UK, including four with Vets4Pets practices on site. Bosses said they plan to expand the scheme to more stores in the … Read more

Grad expectations: how to grow new graduates into pillars of your practice

by

Image © Good hxdbzxy / iStock This time of year, many practices will be welcoming one of hundreds of newly qualified vets on to their teams. With a shiny new MRCVS after their names, these new graduates will generally be brimming with enthusiasm to start a job they have worked for (at least) five years … Read more

Pet pig reproduction problems

by

In this article, we will deal with reproduction problems in smallholder and pet pigs. Making plans before an emergency call-out I think it is vital that at least a veterinary surgeon who has some experience with pigs gives the client a telephone call before any reproduction occurs. Preferably, a routine health visit is arranged. Then … Read more

Bimeda relaunches amoxicillin suspension injection

by

Bimeda has announced a relaunch for its Bimoxyl LA 150mg/ml suspension for injection containing 150mg/ml amoxicillin. The product is licensed for use in cattle, sheep, pigs and dogs for the treatment of infections caused by amoxicillin-susceptible bacteria. Mark Cokayne, Bimeda UK general manager, said: “We are pleased to announce the relaunch of Bimoxyl LA Suspension … Read more

Queen’s funeral spells bad news for guinea pigs | Letters

by

My six-year-old granddaughter has been solemnly informed that Guinea Pig Awareness Week has been postponed as a mark of respect. She is distraught and I cannot help but think that, as an animal lover, Her Majesty would not have approved. Perhaps a constitutional expert or someone close to the royals could prevail on the organizers … Read more