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2007 Overseas Diary Archive

Overseas Newsletter - November 2007

News – BVA

Sri Lanka Eastern Province - Negenahira Navodaya

With the restoration of peace and normal civilian life in the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka, the Government of Sri Lanka has launched a massive development programme to rehabilitate the war affected province. Rehabilitation of livestock in the region has been identified as a priority area under the above programme, in view of the importance it plays in raising the living standards.

The Sri Lanka High Commission has approached the BVA Overseas Group for assistance in seeking donations of specific items of equipment (.pdf) to aid this important project which will make a real difference in the lives of thousands of people in the region who depend on raising livestock. The Government of Sri Lanka will meet cost of shipping of donated items to Sri Lanka.

Any support would be very much appreciated – and please do spread the word. Please confirm any donations to Deeptha Kulatilleke, Minister of the Commercial Section of the Sri Lanka High Commission, 13 Hyde Park Gardens, London W2 2LU tel: 020 7262 3996 or e-mail: trade@slhc-london.co.uk (Please also advise the Overseas Group via helenac@bva.co.uk of any donations made).

Trevor Blackburn Award 2007

The Overseas Group was delighted to name John Cooper as the recipient of the 2007 Trevor Blackburn Award in recognition of his many contributions in the field of animal health and welfare in developing countries. Currently working as Professor of Veterinary Pathology at the University of the West Indies, Trinidad, John is a specialist pathologist with particular interests in wildlife and exotic species, tropical diseases and comparative medicine. The Overseas Group's citation for John can be read here.

Vets in the Wider World

The Overseas Group’s session at the recent BVA Congress explored the role of vets overseas, from their involvement with transport animals, through their role in disease control, to the assistance they can provide in times of natural and man-made disasters. Four speakers highlighted the contributions veterinary surgeons can make to the lives of both animals and people. See here for a report of this session (as published in The Veterinary Record Oct 20, 2007).

Children playing with puppies in Jaipur
Photo: Jack Reece, Help in Suffering

Guidance notes on working overseas – new section on insurance

The BVA Overseas Group has further expanded its guidance notes on working overseas to include advice on insurance.

Intended to provide some basic information and guidance to those who are interested in this sort of work – as well as to veterinary students undertaking projects overseas - the series now covers:
- Introduction - general comments and advice
- Cat neutering programmes
- Street dog population control
- Donkeys
- Contributing to animal welfare in developing countries
- Equipment – when working in the field
- Personal safety
- Health & safety
- Insurance
- North Africa
- Nepal
- India
- China
- Peru
- Sources of advice and further reading

BVA Overseas Travel Grants 2008

Information on the next tranche of overseas travel grants for students undertaking projects in developing countries is now available. The closing date for applications is 20 March 2008.

The Road to Marrakech

As this newsletter reaches you, Patrick Sells, newly qualified from Liverpool Vet School will be undertaking an incredible 3,100 mile sponsored motorbike ride from Leahurst to Marrakech to raise funds for SPANA. Patrick will then be working as a volunteer vet in the Atlas Mountains for three months at the Midelt SPANA clinic, during which time he will also be carrying out valuable research on harness-induced injuries. The trip has already attracted the BVA/TAWS Travel Grant and the UFAW Travel Award. To sponsor Patrick go to: http://www.justgiving.com/patricksells - just ½p a mile (£15.00) would finance the full treatment of one equid in Morocco.

Impact assessment of beneficiaries of Vetaid UK

Emma Pearson’s report of her recent project in Tanzania is now available. Emma, from Glasgow vet school, was one of the recipients of a BVA Overseas Travel Grant in 2007.

BVA highlights World Rabies Day

September 8, 2007 was designated World Rabies Day with a view to raising awareness of the disease and the means available to prevent it. Building on the 'one medicine' concept, which advocates better integration of veterinary and medical expertise in the fight against disease, the initiative is being driven by scientists and professionals working in the field and is supported by the World Health Organization (WHO), the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, among others. As its own contribution in advance of the event, The Veterinary Record carried a number of articles discussing the thinking behind the initiative, and the role that veterinarians can play in tackling the disease worldwide.

Full editorial comment and the other articles published in The Veterinary Record Sept 1, 2007.

Overseas visitors welcomed at BVA

We were delighted to welcome Drs Sam Okech and Frank Mwiine from Uganda and Dr Joseph Kuria from the Kenyan Veterinary Association who called in to BVA HQ during their recent visits to London.

Congratulations!

Many congratulations to BVA Overseas Group member Karen Jones on her recent marriage to Tim Reed. We wish Karen & Tim every happiness for the future.

News – General

Alliance for Rabies Control

Alliance for Rabies Control's November 2007 newsletter

The second annual World Rabies Day will be on September 28, 2008.

4th Pan Commonwealth Veterinary Conference

Delegates from over 50 countries attended the highly successful 4th Pan Commonwealth Veterinary Conference in Barbados at the beginning of November.

Speaking at the meeting, the Director of the Commonwealth Foundation Dr Mark Collins pointed out that livestock were essential in order to alleviate poverty and pointed out that professional associations such as the Commonwealth Veterinary Association were well-placed to contribute to the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals to reduce poverty by half by 2015. See the transcript of Dr Collins’ speech.

A full report on the conference will be published soon in The Veterinary Record.

RCVS Trust 2008 Grants Round

The RCVS Trust has launched its 2008 grants round, featuring a comprehensive range of research and animal welfare programmes including Travel Scholarships and Small Grants - and a £250,000 “Golden Jubilee” award for a single project in any discipline within veterinary science or medicine to mark the Trust’s 50th birthday celebrations in 2008.

Role for vets in vulture crisis (from the RSPB)

The RSPB have asked for our assistance in drawing this to the attention of the veterinary community.

The manufacture of the veterinary drug diclofenac has been banned by the Indian, Pakistan and Nepalese Governments, because of its lethal effect on vultures. Several species have declined to the brink of extinction, poisoned by eating carcases of livestock recently treated with the drug.

It is likely that other species are similarly affected by diclofenac, and there are serious concerns that other NSAIDs may also be unsafe. Only meloxicam has been safety-tested, and is known to be a safe alternative. The use of other NSAIDs coming onto the market could be equally disastrous. The Bombay Natural History Society, with support from the RSPB, has embarked on a costly breeding programme, while continuing to press the Indian government for firmer action. The veterinary community has a crucial role to play across south Asia by reacting to this. However, although manufacture is banned, diclofenac sale is not yet illegal. There are very real fears for the survival prospects of the vultures.

The absence of vultures has brought major sanitation problems, and risks to human health. Feral dog populations have multiplied, as they benefit from the food that vultures ate in the past, which seriously increases levels of diseases such as rabies.

Latest news from FAO

Recent updates from the FAO Newsroom may be of interest:

Alternatively see the complete list of articles.

You can also see fact sheets on major FAO issues - e.g. The Right to Food; Women, Agriculture & Food Security.

Reducing the impact of climate change

The most recent report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) found that there is overwhelming evidence that humans are affecting climate and it highlighted the implications for human health. The World Health Organization (WHO) is helping countries respond to this challenge, primarily by encouraging them to build and reinforce public health systems as the first line of defence against climate-related health risks. Further information here.

First national convention of the Afghanistan Veterinary Association

For decades, Afghanistan has been roiled by conflict. As a front in the war on terror, where combat operations against al-Qaida and the Taliban are ongoing, it's hard not to imagine Afghanistan as rife with violence and lawlessness. Yet a recent gathering of Afghan animal health workers illustrated that reality in Afghanistan is markedly different from the headlines. Read the report from JAVMA here.

World Veterinary Association (WVA) Newsletter - November

The WVA newsletter November 2007 includes articles on World Veterinary Day in Japan; Dr Bent Christensen; 29th World Veterinary Congress; WVA meets WSPA; Congresses; Mauritius Loses >50 % of Pig Population Within Weeks; BVA Congress moved to Belfast; Emerging Diseases in Denmark; Asian activities; List of Veterinary Schools now on WVA website. It can be read in full at: http://www.worldvet.org/docs/WVANewsletter8.pdf

World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) Monthly News – November

The latest WSAVA monthly news includes WSAVA Activities and Committee Reports; Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC) – WSAVA Vaccine Guidelines Available Online; Microchip Committee - Microchip Transponders and cancer: a request for information.

World Animal Week – 4-10 October

The World Veterinary Association marked World Animal Week by reflecting on the services that veterinarians provide to animals around the world. World Animal Week runs every year from 4-10 October. The aim of the week is to celebrate animals and raise the standard of animal welfare worldwide, making the world a safer, more compassionate place for all animals.

International Disaster Day – 10 October

October 10 was International Day for Disaster Reduction focussing on the impact that natural disasters have on people around the world, particularly those in poor countries, and reminding us of the importance of tackling disasters before they strike, to prevent them from happening or to reduce the damage they cause.

Every year, 250 million people are affected by natural disasters. With pressures such as climate change increasing the threat of disasters, there is an increased need to build the resilience of poor countries and their most vulnerable citizens. Natural disasters are a major threat to development and to the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals. Not being able to cope can mean disease, hunger, loss of educational opportunities and poverty. DFID's commitment to reducing the risk of disasters recognises the development benefits of helping poor countries withstand floods, famine, earthquakes and other potential catastrophes.

Overseas Postings and Requests for Volunteers

Help in Suffering, India (Jaipur & Darjeeling)

Help in Suffering has two vacancies for volunteer veterinary surgeons: one for a new spay-neuter (ABC) project being established in Darjeeling, West Bengal in the eastern foothills of the Himalayas, while the other is for a vet for Help in Suffering, Jaipur, Rajasthan to assist in the work of a busy animal shelter. The latter has projects with equids, camels, elephants though it is expected that the volunteer will spend most time in the ABC project which aims to control street dog population. Both positions would require cultural sensitivity, adaptability, the willingness to share clinical skills with colleagues, the ability to keep accurate records and willingness to become involved in a range of professional duties. MRCVS required. Simple accommodation and food would be provided at both locations. Assistance with air fare may be available. A commitment to at least 3 months work is required. Starting date early in 2008. It is possible that opportunity to exchange between Darjeeling and Jaipur, and to visit and be involved in other projects, may occur. For further information contact Jack Reece at: hisvet1@helpinsuffering.org.

FAO Vacancies

We have received notification of the following vacancies at FAO:

Animal Health Officer (Veterinary Public Health) - P4
Food Safety Officer (Assessment) - P3
Further information here

Guyana SPCA

The Guyana SPCA would welcome volunteer vets to assist largely with its spay and neuter programme (dogs and cats) – and would also be grateful for any assistance in the areas of animal legislation, medical supplies and education and awareness. For further information contact Oliver Insanally at oliver@guyana.net.gy or Ms Shiromanie Isaacs at shiromanieisaacs@hotmail.com

Noistar Thai Animal Rescue Foundation

The Foundation will be carrying out an island wide neutering programme on Koh Tao from February 18 to March 15, 2008. They already have some volunteer vets but need more (qualified for at least two years and preferably with experience of working on this kind of project). Please contact Jayne Chard at: info@thaianimalrescue.com

Paphiakos & CCP Animal Welfare (Cyprus)

The shelter is looking for volunteer vets and nurses but is also looking for a vet (salaried) to work with them for a longer period. For further information e-mail paphiakos.welfare@cytanet.com.cy or visit their website.

Worldwide Veterinary Service (WVS)

WVS has just been awarded a large grant by the Marchig Trust to expand their veterinary teams, disaster relief aid and sustainable veterinary education programme. Annie Cook has been appointed the Director of Veterinary Operations and will be spearheading the deployment of the Marchig Trust/WVS support teams throughout 2008. Should any members of the profession be keen or able to assist with any of WVS projects, the charity is always very grateful to receive any help or support. Further details for those who may wish to volunteer for a trip can be found on the WVS website.

Reminders and Dates for the Diary

29th World Veterinary Congress will be held on 27-31 July 2008 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Further information.

33rd WSAVA Congress and 14th European FECAVA Congress will be held on 20-24 August 2008 in Dublin, Ireland. Further info.

25th Biennial Caribbean Veterinary Medical Association Conference “Veterinary Medicine - Uniting the Caribbean veterinary fraternity” will take place on 6-9 November 2008 on the twin-nation island of Dutch Sint Maarten-French St. Martin (www.st-maarten.com). For further information contact Garry Swanston at sxmvetclinic@megatropic.com or sxmvetclinic@caribserve.net

Overseas Newsletter - August 2007

World Rabies Day

Working Together to Make Rabies History

Rabies kills 55,000 people every year mainly in Africa and Asia, despite being entirely preventable through vaccination and prompt medical treatment. The first ever World Rabies Day will be held on 8 September 2007 in order to raise global awareness of rabies prevention and control.

BVA highlights World Rabies Day

The BVA will mark World Rabies Day through a series of articles commissioned by its journal The Veterinary Record.

In its September 1 edition The Veterinary Record will include papers by Deborah Briggs (Kansas State University) and Cathleen Hanlon (Centers for Disease Control & Prevention - CDC) recounting the impetus behind World Rabies Day and events planned; Tony Fooks (Veterinary Laboratories Agency) highlighting the importance of vets and doctors working together to tackle the disease; Charles Rupprecht (CDC) outlining progress towards the elimination of rabies and the role of the vet in the management of this major disease; Jack Reece (Help in Suffering, India) describing the work being done by HIS to eradicate the disease in street dogs in India; and Sarah Cleaveland (University of Edinburgh), Magai Kaare (University of Edinburgh) and Katie Hampson (Princeton University) writing about living with rabies in Africa as well as their work vaccinating dogs against rabies in the Serengeti and its impact on conservation and human rabies incidence.

Alliance for Rabies Control

Read the Alliance for Rabies Control's August 2007 newsletter here. It is dedicated to the inaugural World Rabies Day and highlights some of the many events being planned around the world to celebrate it.

News - BVA

Overseas Group session at BVA Congress

Just a reminder that ‘Vets in the Wider World’ is the theme for the BVA Overseas Group’s session on Friday 28 September at BVA’s forthcoming Congress in Belfast.

Photo © Paul Starkey

Paul Starkey’s highly illustrated talk will focus on the importance of animal traction in rural transport and sustainable agricultural development, and its capacity to empower local communities; Jack Reece, through his experience of working with the charity Help in Suffering in Jaipur, India, will provide an insight into the work done at local community level – and the associated joys and frustrations; Tess Sprayson, whose expertise lies in disaster management, will consider the vet’s role in the management of disasters of natural origin and the importance of providing sustainable assistance in the affected areas; and Karen Jones, Veterinary Director at SPANA, will discuss veterinary involvement in disasters post-conflict.

Further information on BVA Congress

The Overseas Group and its work

A description and presentation on the work of the Overseas Group are now available on this website.

Bangladesh floods

The World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) was extremely grateful to the positive response by members of the BVA Overseas Association in their search for a vet to assist in Bangladesh. We are informed that they have now appointed someone. Thank you very much for your support and for spreading the word.

The Commonwealth Veterinary Association (CVA) is facilitating flood relief work there by coordinating with the disaster management team of WSPA. The CVA representative in Chittagong, Dr Rasheedul Alam, is coordinating the work.

Sri Lankan strays and street animals

A new report by Georgina Hyams VN describing the challenges she and her fellow volunteers faced on their Sri Lankan animal charity trip in Winter 2006/7 is now available on the BVA website.

News – General

VETAID’s work in Africa & the forthcoming BBC R4 appeal (2 & 6 Sept)

VETAID is working with families affected by HIV/AIDS: the pandemic is not just a health issue but affects all aspects of life, including agriculture and food security. VETAID has been looking at ways to alleviate the impact on HIV/AIDS on the communities they work with by helping to support vulnerable families to make their food and income more reliable. By providing tools, skills and knowledge to these young people they, in turn, are better equipped to provide for their families and earn a living from their land.

BBC Radio 4 will be airing an appeal to raise funds for VETAID’s work in Africa on Sunday 2 September at 7.55am and 9.26pm and again on Thursday 6 September at 3.26pm. Do try to tune in (92-95 FM and 198LW) and inform friends and family who may be interested.

For further information on the work of VETAID, or to make a donation, please visit www.vetaid.org.

Commonwealth Scholarship awarded

Dr. Aminu Shittu, an Assistant Lecturer with the Department of Public Health and Animal Production, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto in northwestern Nigeria has won a Commonwealth Scholarship Commission’s scholarship to support his studies on the University of Edinburgh’s International Animal Health online (Distance Learning) MSc programme. He is one of the scholarship beneficiaries allocated to successful applicants from the developing West African countries.

World Health Report 2007: A safer future

More than ever before, global public health security depends on international cooperation and the willingness of all countries to take steps to tackle new and emerging threats. That is the message of this year's World health report entitled A safer future: global public health security in the 21st century, which was launched on 23 August.

Read the news release and/or the world health report 2007.

World Veterinary Association – news

For up-to-date veterinary news from around the world visit the WVA website at www.worldvet.org/

The Gambia Horse and Donkey Trust Christmas Pudding Sale!

We know it’s a little early to be thinking of Christmas, but this year the GHDT will be selling award winning Christmas puddings. They come complete with GHDT label on them and would make ideal gifts around the festive season, a wonderful way to help a charity and give a very special gift as well. The 1lb puddings will be priced at £6 each and the larger 2lb puddings will be selling at £10 each. To order, please contact Heather Armstrong at: gambiahorseanddonkeytrust@hotmail.com

Overseas Postings and Requests for Volunteers

(Disclaimer: Please note that inclusion of organisations on this list does not imply endorsement by the BVA).

Fiji SPCA

The SCPA, Fiji’s only animal welfare organisation, is looking to immediately recruit a fulltime veterinarian. The bulk of activities are related to companion animals: neutering constitutes a major focus as part of national efforts to better manage stray dogs. A rewarding opportunity for an experienced and motivated individual who is interested in working in a developing country. The remuneration package will include a modest salary with accommodation and the use of a vehicle provided for reasonable private use. For further information please contact Mr Deepak Rathod, President of the Fiji SPCA at: rathod@connect.com.fj

Asian Veterinary & Livestock Services (ASVELIA) - Hanoi, Vietnam

ASVELIS, which provides services in the field of animal health and livestock in South East Asia, is looking for a veterinary practitioner for companion animals and a poultry production & health specialist. Both positions require at least one year’s relevant experience in a developed country. Six months contract renewable. Start September-October 2007. Salary package to be discussed. For further information please contact Dr Patrice Gautier at: patricegautier@hotmail.com

FAO vacancies

We have received notification of a number of vacancies at FAO:

- Animal Health Officer (Bacterial and Zoonotic Diseases)
- Animal Health Officer (Virology)
- Animal Health Officer (Animal Disease Emergencies and Early Warning)

Closing date for applications varies but all are in early or mid-September. Please contact Daniela Battaglia at FAO for further information, email: Daniela.Battaglia@fao.org

Vets Beyond Borders – vacancy in Sikkim

Vets Beyond Borders (Australia) currently have the following vacancy: Director - Sikkim Anti-Rabies and Animal Health Programme. Applicants should possess a veterinary degree registrable in Australia and have experience or specific interests in animal welfare issues and India. For more information on this post please email sikkimproject@vetsbeyondborders.org Applications including CV and contact details of two referees should also be sent to this address. The closing date for applications is 31 August 2007.

Asociacion Humanitaria San Fransisco De Asis (AHSFA) - Northern Peru

AHSFA runs a small shelter in Colan (a fishing village on the north west coat of Peru) concentrating mainly on spay and neuter and educating local schools on animal wellbeing. It also works with horses, donkeys and mules in nearby rural villages. The charity would welcome volunteer vets, vet students and VNs. For further information please contact Rosemary Gordon at rosagordon2003@hotmail.com (but please note that she will be away during November/December 2007).

The Kismet Account & Portugal Animal Welfare UK

The Kismet Account and Portugal Animal Welfare UK are looking for volunteers - nurses and vets - for spaying trips due to take place this year and next - most trips being about 10 days duration:

September or October 2007- flexible dates - Gibraltar - vet & nurse needed;
November 2007 - 10th to 19th - nurses and "trappers" needed for both feral cat neutering and shelter neutering, Algarve area;
Jan 2008 - flexible dates - Coimbra in Northern Portugal - Shelter neutering with some feral cat work - experienced vets and nurses.

Throughout 2008 the Kismet Account needs experienced vets and nurses to help them on training projects further afield - Eastern Europe, Asia and Far East. At this stage an expression of interest is welcome.

For further information visit www.pawuk.org.uk and click on ‘Volunteer Info’ – submit your
application by email using the downloadable volunteer form.

Worldwide Veterinary Service – requests for vets and VNs

WVS has places available for vets and veterinary nurses on trips to Costa Blanca and Greece. For further information please contact Luke Gamble info@wvs.org.uk or visit the website www.wvs.org.uk

Reminders & Dates for the Diary

4-5 September 2007: Afghanistan Veterinary Association (AVA) Congress

The AVA’s first National Veterinary Congress - Food Security & Safety through Delivery of Animal Health Services – being held in Kabul, has been brought forward to 4-5 September 2007 (not 9-10 Sept as stated previously). David Love reports that they have had a reasonable international response but alas no enquiries from the UK. For further information contact David at david.love@arrivain.com

8 September 2007: World Rabies Day

Working Together to Make Rabies History: the WRD coordination team hopes to engage at least 55,000 people on this inaugural World Rabies Day – one for each person who dies needlessly of rabies each year. For further information visit: www.worldrabiesday.org

28 September 2007: Overseas Group session at BVA Congress

4-8 November 2007: 4th Pan Commonwealth Veterinary Conference

27-31 July 2008: 29th World Veterinary Congress

The 29th World Veterinary Congress ‘Celebrate our Diversity’ will be held on 27-31 July 2008 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Click here for further information.

Overseas Newsletter - July 2007

News - BVA

Trevor Blackburn Award 2007 – call for nominations

The BVA Overseas Group invites nominations for the 2007 Award.

This Award was instigated by the BVA Overseas Group in 2006 in memory of Mr J Trevor Blackburn, President of the BVA 1984-85, the Commonwealth Veterinary Association 1988-91 and the World Veterinary Association 1991-95. The purpose of the Award is to recognise the contributions made by a veterinary surgeon in the field of animal health and welfare in a developing country. For further information and a nomination form please contact Helena Cotton (e-mail: HelenaC@bva.co.uk) or visit the award's page on the BVA website. The closing date for nominations is 31 July 2007.

Leahurst to Marrakech

In November this year Patrick Sells, a newly qualified Liverpool graduate from North Wales, will be undertaking a sponsored 3,100 mile motorcycle trip from Leahurst to Marrakech to raise money for SPANA. Patrick will then be working as a volunteer vet in the Atlas Mountains for three months at the Midelt SPANA clinic, during which time he will also be carrying out a study on harness-induced injuries.

The trip has already attracted the BVA/TAWS Travel Grant and the UFAW Travel Award, and Patrick gained valuable practical experience in working harness at the TAWS/BVA Overseas Association meeting at Holme Lacy in April. Sponsoring Patrick just ½p a mile (£15.00) would finance the full treatment of one equid in Morocco. You can make a donation please here. Practice/company sponsorship space is available for the motorbike and equipment (please contact patricksells21@hotmail.com for sponsorship forms).

Overseas Group session at BVA Congress

Chaired by Laura Bowen, the BVA Overseas Group session on Friday 28 September, 'Vets in the Wider World’, will focus on the importance of healthy animals to livelihoods in developing countries and will look at the contributions of UK vets working within local communities; the programme will also consider the role of the vet in disaster management, looking at both ‘natural’ and ‘man-made’ disasters.

It promises to be thought-provoking afternoon and we would encourage support from all those who share an interest in overseas veterinary activities.

Further information on BVA Congress here

4th Pan Commonwealth Veterinary Conference – November 2007

The 4th Pan Commonwealth Veterinary Conference takes place between 4 – 8 November 2007 in St Michael, Barbados, West Indies. The Conference is entitled 'Animal Health and Welfare: Constant Challenges for Veterinarians'. This conference provides an opportunity for veterinarians from the 53 Commonwealth member countries to meet other veterinarians from around the world, discuss issues of common interest and benefit from quality continuing education on a vast range of topics based on a multi-faceted approach.

Topics include:

Advances in companion animal and equine medicine and surgery
New challenges for veterinarians, stem cell therapy, exotic animal medicine, emerging diseases, marine mammals, emergency medicine
A full animal welfare programme
Sustainable development, including climate change and how it affects veterinarians, and the latest efforts in poverty alleviation
Food safety and biosecurity, zoonotic diseases and public health.

The conference venue is the newly renovated beachfront Barbados Hilton Hotel and Conference Centre at Needhams Point, near Bridgetown. The hotel provides luxurious accommodation, a state of the art conference centre with accompanying facilities, within easy reach of all the activities available in beautiful Barbados.
Further details on registration, programmes and prices here or contact: Dr Gus Reader organizer@commonwealthvetconference.com

First National Congress of the Afghanistan Veterinary Association (AVA)

The AVA will hold its first National Veterinary Congress - Food Security & Safety through Delivery of Animal Health Services - on 9-10 September 2007 in Kabul. The Afghanistan Veterinary Association, formed in 2004, boasts more than 800 full members located throughout Afghanistan working for government, industry, NGOs and the private sector and is now established as the lead organisation for the provision of animal health services in Afghanistan. (It is estimated that up to 80 percent of the total population in Afghanistan depends directly or indirectly on livestock for their livelihood. Twenty five years of war and civil unrest, aggravated by an extended, severe drought from 1998 to 2001 have significantly reduced animal numbers in the country and reversed earlier advances in improved animal husbandry. Clearly, veterinary medicine serves a vital, core function in the social and economic well-being of Afghanistan, its livestock and people).

BVA Overseas Association and AVA member David Love is currently working in Afghanistan and is involved with this congress. He states that any visitors will be welcomed in ‘Afghan Style’.

Further information can be obtained by e-mail from the AVA President, Dr Said Gul Safi sayed_gul@yahoo.com or David Love david.love@arrivain.com

News – General

Alliance for Rabies Control

Alliance for Rabies Control's May 2007 newsletter

It contains information about rabies in South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria, Pakistan, India, the Philippines and Thailand, and also an update on progress towards World Rabies Day.

Final call for RCVS Trust travel scholarship applications

The deadline for applications for the second round of RCVS Trust travel scholarships is 20 July 2007. Further information available here.

Winston Churchill Memorial Trust awards

The Winston Churchill Memorial Trust is inviting applications for its travel fellowships for 2008. These awards enable British citizens resident in the UK to travel overseas to undertake a four-to-eight week project in one of a number of defined categories. The categories for the 2008 awards include animal welfare and ‘Making a living in the countryside’. Further details about the Trust and the travel fellowships are also available by telephoning 020 7584 9315. The deadline for applications is 16 October 2007.

Online MSc in International Animal Health

The University of Edinburgh delivers an online MSc in International Animal Health by distance learning.

Details of the course and the applications procedures

Please check the website for details of scholarships for students from sub-Saharan African Commonwealth countries.

WVA Launch Veterinary Animal Welfare Network (VAWN)

At its meeting in Taiwan on World Veterinary Day, the WVA Council finalised plans to launch a new global network for veterinarians to communicate on animal welfare matters. This is to be facilitated through the WVA website.

Veterinarians are encouraged to publish news, items of interest, papers and to initiate discussion on animal welfare related topics.

OIE International Committee succeeds in bringing China and Taiwan to fully participate together in the organisation's activities

The 169 Member Countries of the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) that gathered in Paris for the 75th General Assembly of the organisation, voted for the restoration of the exercise of the rights and obligations of the People's Republic of China to the OIE. Taiwan maintains its participation to the organisation. The OIE has been asked by the vote of its Member Countries to refer to it under the new name of “Chinese Taipei”.

“This is a historical vote for our organisation”, the Director General of the OIE, Dr Bernard Vallat commented. “Nowadays, an effective control of animal diseases, including zoonoses, requires more and more transparent information and cooperation from Member Countries. The international community cannot afford to have gaps in the management of sanitary information and counting both Taiwan and China among our active Members will further improve the animal disease situation in the world”, he added. China had become a member of the OIE in 1992 but had not been fully participating to its work due to the presence in the organisation of Taiwan, which joined the OIE in 1954. The OIE now becomes one of the first and few international organisations whose members have facilitated and reached an agreement to have both China and Chinese Taipei as active members.

Veterinary Workshops in Kenya

A Workshop on Reptile Care, Health and Welfare was held at the Nairobi Snake Park, National Museums of Kenya, on 13 June 2007. Designed for those who keep and exhibit reptiles, the Workshop was intended to provide an introduction to the care of snakes, lizards, tortoises and crocodiles in captivity and how best to keep them healthy.

A Veterinary and Comparative Pathology Workshop was held in Nairobi from 28 June to 2 July 2007. Co-hosted by the Institute of Primate Research (IPR) National Museums of Kenya, and the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kabete, this Workshop provided training in post-mortem techniques and the interpretation of pathological changes. The Workshop was aimed primarily at veterinary graduates who are embarking on a career in veterinary pathology/diagnostic work or those working in the field who need to carry out post-mortem examinations, especially of wildlife, as part of their professional responsibilities.

Further information about these Workshops is available from the organiser, Professor John E Cooper e-mail NGAGI@vetaid.net

World Veterinary Association – news

For up-to-date veterinary news from around the world visit the WVA website

Recent requests for volunteers

(Disclaimer: Please note that inclusion of organisations on this list does not imply endorsement by the BVA).

APS Samoa

The Animal Protection Society is seeking a qualified vet for their clinic near Apia in Samoa for a period of up to 4 months from June to September 2007 (negotiable). For further information please contact Junior Ma’alo at aps.samoa@gmail.com

Koh Tao Animal Clinic (Thailand) - Neutering, Vaccination and Mange Treatment Programme (NVMTP) 2008

The clinic is planning an island-wide neutering, vaccination and mange treatment programme for 2008. Updates on the proposal are available here. Qualified vets with at least three years experience or vet nurses who would like to volunteer for this programme please contact info@kohtaoanimalclinic.org

The Animal House Jamaica

A British-founded and run animal shelter on Jamaica's northcoast would welcome volunteer vets and nurses to assist with their neutering programme. For further information contact Maureen Sheridan at info@theanimalhousejamaica.org

Worldwide Veterinary Service – requests for vets and VNs

WVS still needs vets and veterinary nurses for this year’s training trips – and are now also looking for a team of four new graduates to take part in a training trip which has been organised for September. For further information please contact Luke Gamble info@wvs.org.uk or visit the WVS website.

Reminders & Dates for the Diary

World Rabies Day – 8 September 2007

Overseas Group session at BVA Congress – 28 September 2007

4th Pan Commonwealth Veterinary Conference – 4-8 November 2007

29th World Veterinary Congress – 27-31 July 2008

The 29th World Veterinary Congress ‘Celebrate our Diversity’ will be held on 27-31 July 2008 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Further information available here.

Overseas Newsletter - April 2007

News - BVA

World Veterinary Day: 28 April 2007 – Celebrating our Diversity

“We are probably the only profession that understands the human-animal dynamic that exists to some extent in every community throughout the world. Our daily work involves actions and decisions that affect not only the animals we treat but also their human partners that live and work alongside them. No other profession understands the social implications, epidemiology of disease, biosecurity and public health issues involved.” (Tess Sprayson, BVA Overseas Group).

Help in Suffering vet Dr Devi treating a camel in Pushkar

(Photo: Jack Reece)

Read the BVA press statement highlighting the global role of the veterinary profession and drawing attention to the launch of the BVA’s Best of Care guide.

TAWS/BVA Overseas Association Seminar – 4 April

Read the report by Roger Connan on the seminar ‘Towards lasting solutions to foot and harness problems in working equids overseas’.

Overseas travel grants 2007

This year’s BVA Overseas Travel Grants are being awarded to:

David Mills (5th year, Cambridge) - Kenya
The on-farm welfare of Kenyan beef cattle: an assessment of the potential of developing countries to access niche high welfare export markets in the EU

Emma Pearson (4th year, Glasgow) - Tanzania
Raising community awareness about the importance of specific diseases in Masai cattle and helping to sustain an enhanced food security involving small scale poultry and goat production

Aniket Sardana (Intercalating in Zoology, entering 5th year in Oct, Bristol) - Brazil
Impact of extensive versus intensive cattle systems of livestock and environmental health in the Brazilian Pantanal

Kate Woolley (Intercalating MSc Veterinary Infectious Disease Control between 3rd & 4th year, Liverpool) – Tanzania
An investigation into the prevalence of tick-borne diseases of domestic dogs in the Serengeti region on Tanzania

with TAWS overseas travel grants going to:

Caroline Foalks (4th Year, RVC) - Mexico
Factors affecting the welfare of working equids in Mexico assessed using observational means

Patrick Sells (Final Year, Liverpool) - Morocco
Equid welfare in Morocco: a study of harness sores and injuries

The Donkey Sanctuary has selected one student so far for a grant this year: Lucy Meehan will go to Awassa in Ethiopia in July to work on a Trypanosomiasis project.

Recent additions to the website

Disaster Management update

An update on the BVA Overseas Group’s Disaster Management Resource (Off The Record, January 2007).

Control of rabies in Jaipur

Jack Reece and Sunil Chawla’s paper ‘Control of rabies in Jaipur, India, by the sterilisation and vaccination of neighbourhood dogs’ (Veterinary Record, September 16, 2006).

On a Mission: caring for working equids abroad

Gigi Kay’s article (In Practice, February 2007) – of particular interest to would-be volunteers.

Work Experience Thai-Style

Jacky Jonker’s report of her experiences working at the Noistar Thai Animal Rescue Foundation (Off The Record, February 2007).

News - General

‘Vaccinating for Africa’ day – 10 May 2007

VETAID hopes that veterinary practices will support the ‘Vaccinating for Africa’ day by giving as many boosters as they can on 10 May and donating half their total income from the vaccinations to VETAID. For further information please contact the VETAID office mail@vetaid.org

Developing countries get open access to WIN

The Wildlife Information Network (WIN) is now providing open access to its information resources to people in developing countries. As of 15 March 2007, anyone who visits the WIN website – www.wildlifeinformation.org - from a developing country will be redirected to a free login page. From there, they will be able to access up-to-date and fully referenced information on species, diseases, treatment methods and husbandry guidelines without restriction.

The Alliance for Rabies Control

The Alliance for Rabies Control (ARC) www.rabiescontrol.org was created in 2006 to alleviate the burden of rabies across the world by promoting and implementing rabies control, prevention and education programmes whilst accounting for animal welfare and conservation issues. ARC is spear-heading the World Rabies Day Initiative for 2007.

RCVS Trust Travel Scholarships

Travel scholarships are available for veterinary surgeons wishing to attend international veterinary conferences or pursue themes of clinical or non-clinical research involving short-term visits to veterinary or medical centres or research institutes abroad. The deadline for applications is 20 July 2007.

RVC scholarships for the MSc in Veterinary Epidemiology and Public Health

The RVC has six scholarships for the MSc in Veterinary Epidemiology and Public Health (by distance learning) for students from developing Commonwealth countries. The deadline for applications is 1 June 2007.

World Animal Health Information Database (WAHID) Interface

The WAHID Interface provides access to all data held within OIE's new World Animal Health Information System (WAHIS). It replaces and significantly extends the former web interface named Handistatus II System. A comprehensive range of information is available.

Gambia Horse & Donkey Trust (GHDT) - request for space surgical instruments

The GHDT asks if any practices have any surgical instruments that they no longer use. With its expanding training scheme for veterinary assistants, the charity needs instruments to enable vets to teach simple surgical procedures. Please contact Heather Armstrong: gambiahorseanddonkeytrust@hotmail.com

Recent requests for volunteers

Kathmandu Animal Treatment (KAT) Centre – looking for volunteers

The KAT Centre, whose mission is to create within the Kathmandu Valley a dog friendly, rabies-free, non-breeding street dog population through an Animal Birth Control (ABC) programme, would welcome veterinary volunteers. For further information please contact the Manager, Khageshwar Sharma katcentre@wlink.com.np or visit the website www.katcentre.org.np

LASSie - Langkawi Animal Shelter & Sanctuary Foundation (Malaysia)

The Foundation urgently needs volunteer vets to help with neutering and general veterinary work at the sanctuary on the Malaysian island of Langkawi. For more information see www.langkawilassie.org.my or contact Narelle McMurtie on info@LangkawiLASSie.org.my

Munda Wanga Environmental Park (Zambia)

The park comprises a wildlife sanctuary, botanical gardens and recreational village, working in partnership with the Born Free Foundation and the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation on rescue, rehabilitation and release programmes. They run an international volunteer programme for experienced vets as well as students.
Contact: Kathy Burns sanctuary@zamnet.zm

Sub-Regional Animal Health Specialist (Fiji)

Applications are invited for the position of Sub-Regional Animal Health Specialist, Fiji. The closing date is 31 May 2007.
See: http://www.worldvet.org/Topic5.html

TOLFA’s Project Raja Volunteers Scheme

Tree of Life for Animals’ Hospital and Shelter in Rajasthan, India runs a scheme aimed at veterinary surgeons, students and nurses. TOLFA aims to create a rabies-free environment through sterilisation and vaccination of the enormous stray dog population as well as providing rescue, medical and surgical care for other animals.

University of the West Indies seeks a small animal surgeon

The School of Veterinary Medicine at the University of the West Indies (Trinidad) is urgently looking for a small animal surgeon. For further information please contact John Cooper NGAGI@vetaid.net or the SVM Director, Professor Adesiyun abiodunadesiyun@hotmail.com

Vet required for July and August – northern Morocco

A qualified vet is being sought to take sole charge of a mainly large animal (cattle, sheep, goats and equids) practice in northern Morocco! Unpaid but will provide transport, accommodation, animal health technician/driver/translator (from local Arab/Berber into French) and an amazing experience! For further details contact Michael Crane at michael@spana.org.ma

Worldwide Veterinary Service – requests for vets and VNs

WVS still needs vets and veterinary nurses for this year’s training trips. For further information please contact Luke Gamble info@wvs.org.uk or visit the website www.WVS.org.uk

Reminders

Overseas Group session at BVA Congress

The BVA Overseas Group session on Friday 28 September, ‘Vets in the Wider World’, will focus on the importance of healthy animals to livelihoods in developing countries and will look at the contributions of UK vets working within local communities. The second half of the programme will consider the role of the vet in disaster management, looking at both ‘natural’ and ‘man-made’ disasters. Read more on BVA Congress here.

4th Pan Commonwealth Veterinary Conference – November 2007

The 4th Pan Commonwealth Veterinary Conference takes place between 4 – 8 November 2007 in St Michael, Barbados, West Indies. The Conference is entitled 'Animal Health and Welfare: Constant Challenges for Veterinarians'. More information is available on the CVA website.

29th World Veterinary Congress – July 2008

The 29th World Veterinary Congress ‘Celebrate our Diversity’ will be held on 27-31 July 2008 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Click here for further information.

World Veterinary Association – news

For up-to-date veterinary news from around the world visit the WVA website.

Overseas Newsletter - February 2007

Recognition for work overseas – the Trevor Blackburn Award 2006

The winner of the inaugural Trevor Blackburn Award, Jack Reece, was presented with a traditional Masai carving and a certificate by the BVA President David Catlow in the presence of Mary Blackburn, BVA Overseas Group Chairman Laura Bowen and other members of the Group at a gathering at BVA HQ in December.

Jack has spent much of his career in Jaipur, in India, with Help in Suffering, a charity concerned with street dogs and methods of animal population regulation as well as other aspects of livestock care. He received the award in recognition of his contribution in the field of animal health and welfare in a developing country.

The award was instigated by the BVA’s Overseas Group in memory of Mr J Trevor Blackburn, President of the BVA in 1984/85, of the Commonwealth Veterinary Association 1988/91, and of the World Veterinary Association 1991/95, who died in February 2006.

TAWS/BVA Overseas Association Seminar – 4 April 2007

The TAWS (World Association for Transport Animal Welfare & Studies) Seminar – held in conjunction with the BVA Overseas Association – is entitled ‘Towards lasting solutions to foot and harness problems in working equines overseas’. It will take place on Wednesday 4 April 2007at the Rural Crafts Centre, Herefordshire School of Farriery & Blacksmithing, Holme Lacy Agricultural College, Hereford. Registration from 9am; Rural Crafts Centre tour 9.20am; first presentation 10am. Cost: £25 (£10 for students) including lunch, tea and coffee. For further information contact TAWS at: Hardwick Court Farm, Hardwick Lane, Chertsey, Surrey, KT16 0AD, tel: +44 (0)1932 564366, e-mail: info@taws.org
NB: BVA Overseas Group will subsidise veterinary students’ attendance at this seminar.

Overseas Group session at BVA Congress

We are finalising details for an overseas session to be held on Friday 28 September at BVA Congress in Belfast. Entitled ‘Vets in the Wider World’ it will focus on the importance of healthy animals to livelihoods in developing countries and will look at the contributions of UK vets working within local communities. The second half of the programme will consider the role of the vet in disaster management, looking at both ‘natural’ and ‘man-made’ disasters.
For further information on BVA Congress visit: http://www.bva.co.uk/congress/

VSO placements

VSO anticipates some opportunities for livestock workers in Malawi from June 2007: although VSO has not had any definite news yet, it is likely that vets with large animal experience may be suitable for these roles.

VSO does have a vacant placement for a livestock epidemiologist in Mongolia, details of which are available at: http://www.vso.org.uk/volunteering/stepone/livestock_vet.asp

Volunteer vets needed - Sanaga-Yong Chimpanzee Sanctuary, Cameroon

Home to 57 chimpanzees, mainly orphans (victims of the illegal trade in bushmeat), the sanctuary is looking for experienced veterinary volunteers with a flexible attitude - although experience with primates is not a pre-requisite. There is a well-equipped vet clinic. Volunteers will be given accommodation and food on-site. The ability to speak French would be an advantage. For further information visit www.ida-africa.org or e-mail info@ida-africa.org

Helping Montserrat

The Government of Montserrat has acknowledged the help of the BVA Overseas Group in highlighting their vacancy for a Veterinary Officer on the island. They have now received a large number of applications – via the Overseas Association network - for the post and are in the throes of interviewing candidates.

The Overseas Group is also advising Montserrat on various aspects of disaster relief and management in the light of the island’s imminently threatening volcano.

Aid for Sierra Leone

The BVA Overseas Group, together with SPANA and a number of other charities, has assisted Dr Gudush Jalloh of the Livestock Extension and General Services & Sierra Leone Animal Welfare Society, by coordinating a large collection of veterinary books and equipment and securing their safe shipment to Freetown through the generous support of the Department for International Development (DFID).

Public Relations - School of Veterinary Medicine, University of the West Indies (Trinidad)

John Cooper writes:
We have a new Director, Professor A A Adesiyun, at the School of Veterinary Medicine (SVM), Faculty of Medical Sciences, here at the University of the West Indies. Professor Adesiyun is keen to promote the existence and expertise of the School and to develop stronger links with colleagues overseas.
With this in mind, we have established a Public Relations Committee which will be available to provide information about the SVM and its work and to respond to enquiries about veterinary medicine, emerging diseases, animal–associated public health matters and allied subjects.
Please let us know if you would like to be kept informed of developments here in Trinidad or if we can help you or your colleagues in any specific way.
We look forward to hearing from you.
John E Cooper - Chairman of the Public Relations Committee
E-mail: NGAGI@vetaid.net or ngagi@tstt.net.tt

Jim Crees BVSc, BSc, MRCVS

John & Margaret Cooper write:
We have learnt with sadness of the death of Jim Crees on Friday 22nd December 2006.
Jim (Henry James Seward) Crees qualified as a veterinary surgeon from Bristol University in 1968. Most of his professional life was spent in the Tropics, especially East Africa, where his knowledge of animal health, his love for the area and its peoples and the welcome he gave to those from all backgrounds, was legendary. In late 1996, a medical emergency necessitated his evacuation by air from Southern Sudan to Nairobi, Kenya, and thence to St George’s Hospital, London. From then on, he made impressive progress despite the severity of his condition, aided in part by the help of his many friends but largely on account of the support of Judy Roberts who nursed and cared for him.
Jim’s death will come as a shock to his colleagues in the veterinary profession and the many people in Africa for whom he was a personal friend and advisor.
We have many happy memories of Jim and are very much aware of the contributions he made to tropical veterinary medicine. We are also conscious of the extraordinary care he was given, especially by Judy Roberts. We send our sympathy to his family.

Africa mourns Rosamund (Halsey) Carr

In tribute to Rosamund Carr, John and Margaret Cooper write:

The death of Rosamund Carr late last year (September) was not unexpected (she was in her 95th year and had been unwell) but was the passing of an era. Her name is familiar to all those with an interest in Rwanda and the mountain gorillas that inhabit the volcanoes of Central Africa. She was confidante and friend to Dian Fossey, a role immortalised in the book and film, “Gorillas in the Mist”. More recently, she became internationally known for the remarkable work of her Orphanage, Imbabzi. To us, Roz Carr was a personal friend with whom we shared many happy times but also periods of grief. Prior to the start of the genocide in 1994, we sheltered with her in her plantation house when it was unsafe to travel back to the Centre Vétérinaire des Volcans in Kinigi. It was we who broke the news to her, on 6th April 1994, that the President of Rwanda had been assassinated and bloodshed had started. We were amongst those who urged her, when the killings intensified, to leave Rwanda and we were part of the welcoming party on her return, via Nairobi, when the fighting finished. We shared her sadness at the loss of friends and innocent people and we rejoiced with her when we discovered those, including some of her devoted staff, who had, after all, survived the genocide.

Those veterinary surgeons who lived and worked in Rwanda will never forget Roz Carr's kindness and the welcome she provided for them at her home. They will smile when they recall that, to Roz, being the "gorilla vet" was not enough. She assumed, rightly, that any visiting veterinarian should be able to advise her on the health of her dogs, her cat, her farm livestock and - when necessary - her staff. Many of us learnt afresh the importance of being able and willing to give such help, especially in a war-torn country where veterinary and other services were either non-existent or drastically limited in scope and quality. The RCVS's continued insistence that its Members should, in an emergency, give assistance to any animal may seem tiresome to some but to those on the ground during a disaster is a very sound concept.

We two shall remember "Madame Carr" for her for her courage, for her contributions to Africa, her friendship to ourselves and others who worked with the mountain gorillas and the times that we spent in her company. Murakose cyani. Imana ibahe umugisha. Tutakukumbuka daima.

Reminders

BVA Overseas Travel Grants 2007

Applications are invited for the BVA Overseas Travel Grants (for veterinary undergraduates): http://www.bva.co.uk/profession/overseas/worldwide/grants.asp#overseas
and the Harry Steele-Bodger Memorial Scholarship (for final and penultimate year veterinary students and for graduates who have qualified within the last three years):
http://www.bva.co.uk/profession/overseas/worldwide/grants.asp#HSB

4th Pan Commonwealth Veterinary Conference – November 2007

The 4th Pan Commonwealth Veterinary Conference takes place between 4 – 8 November 2007 in St Michael, Barbados, West Indies. The Conference is entitled 'Animal Health and Welfare: Constant Challenges for Veterinarians'. More information is available at http://commonwealthvetassoc.org/Home/BarBados.htm .

29th World Veterinary Congress – July 2008

The 29th World Veterinary Congress ‘Celebrate our Diversity’ will be held on 27-31 July 2008 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. For further information, visit:
http://www.worldveterinarycongress2008.com/

World Veterinary Association – news

For up-to-date veterinary news from around the world visit the WVA website:
http://www.worldvet.org/

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