Injurious pecking (IP) is a ubiquitous problem on loose-housed laying hen farms and is a welfare and economic concern, associated with increased mortality and decreased productivity. The term ‘injurious pecking’ encompasses a range of behaviours including gentle and severe feather pecking cannibalistic pecking and vent pecking. Beak trimming is commonly used in commercial systems […]
What made the biggest impact?
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 […]
Here’s one I made earlier: an equine nerve block simulator for vet students
Equine lameness constitutes a large proportion of an equine clinician’s caseload and performing diagnostic nerve blocks is an essential skill for equine practitioners. However the opportunities for veterinary students to practice this skill are limited. Traditionally, equine diagnostic analgesia is taught with the use of equine cadaver limbs. However, due to economical, logistical implications, in […]
Influences on veterinary career choices
How much influence does someone’s background and environment have on their career choices? Should veterinary schools consider this when designing curricula to encourage graduates to enter the full range of roles for which their skills are needed, such as food animal vets rather than the perhaps more obvious choices of, for example, small animal […]
Less canker, more canter
Equine hoof canker is a destructive infection that affects the external and underlying structures of the hoof. The disease is diagnosed by its typical clinical appearance: cauliflower-like proliferation of the hoof matrix with a foul smell and white, cheesy fluid – nice! Current treatment involves removing the infected parts of the hoof and followed […]
Turning tables: Examining vets and clients
A recent Veterinary Record publication looks at the behaviour of vets and clients when given the opportunity to discuss animal welfare. VETS are placed in high regard by owners when entrusted with their pets’ welfare, however, animal welfare, as defined by the BVA’s […]
The complexities of copper
Neville Suttle talks to Veterinary Record about copper supplementation in cattle feed. COPPER has a diverse range of biological roles in animals; there are many copper-dependent enzymes that are involved in energy metabolism, immunity, iron metabolism and coat pigmentation to name a few. Neville Suttle, of the Moredun Foundation and co-author of a recent […]
It’s here: the Veterinary Record blog!
Welcome to the Veterinary Record blog Here I will be talking to the authors of the research papers published in Veterinary Record and bringing you the stories behind the science. From serendipitous discoveries to amusing animal anecdotes, I hope that you enjoy the blog. Please get involved and leave comments. Sarah Assistant Editor […]