Veterinary Record is 125 years old this year!
To mark the occasion, we have compiled a list of 10 developments that have had a significant impact on or been significantly impacted by the veterinary profession. To find out more and cast your vote, go to our anniversary website and you will also be in with the chance of winning an iPad mini!
Here are our 10 developments – click through to see some of our relevant publications for free.
Rinderpest, also known as cattle plague, was the first animal disease to have been eradicated through human effort and, after smallpox, the second disease to be eradicated worldwide.
Developments in anaesthesia and analgesia
From on a wing and a prayer to maximum control, developments in drugs and their administration have improved the welfare of all animals after trauma or undergoing surgery or medical treatment.
UK foot-and-mouth disease outbreak (2001)
Important economic, social and political lessons in disease control were learned during and in the immediate aftermath of the foot-and-mouth disease outbreak of 2001.
The ability to see inside patients without having to perform surgery has had significant implications for the diagnosis and treatment of animals, in practice and the field.
Restrictions on animal feed from 1988 onwards did much to control this disease, but the consequences of BSE continue to impact on cattle practice and food safety regulations.
The ‘One Health’ concept is starting to come of age by offering insights into the prevention and control of neglected zoonoses, such as rabies, and opening up new avenues for clinical research.
With the growth of specialist, referral and corporate practices, the level of service provided is being affected and, possibly, the nature of the profession itself.
Introduction of the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS)
The launch of PETS in 2000, marked a significant change in the UK’s approach to preventing rabies.
Growth of the Internet and e-learning
The internet has meant that anyone, not only vets, can have ready access to animal health information. Social media and the web have also enhanced communication between vets, their colleagues and their clients.
Effective antibiotics and anthelmintics
Antibiotics and anthelmintics have had a huge impact on both human and animal health. More recently, concerns over resistance to these treatments have and will continue to affect the way that products are being used.
What do you think of our 10 influential moments? Do you agree or do you have some suggestions of your own? Post your comments below!