MAY 2015 $6.95 GST INCL.

Discover Drs Michael Heath and Lisa Sander’s generous spirit and their desire to eradicate rabies, page 24

SPECIAL REPORTOur guide to the 2015 Pan Pacific

conference, page 31

Indian chiefs

How to negotiate fair wages, page 18

21st-century petsWhat you can do to slow the obesity epidemic, page 14

Net benefitsWhy you should consider conducting consultations over the internet, page 21

What are you worth?

PPRRAACCTTIICCEE

PREVICOX® EXCEEDINGEXPECTATIONS

MOVING AHEAD IN OA

- C

red

its:

JM

Lab

at

1. Refer to PREVICOX product label for full claim details. 2. Merial Data on File, PR&D 84101. 3. McCann, M.E., Andersen, D.R., & Zhang, D. et al (2004) In vitro activity and in vivo effi cacy of a novel COX-2 inhibitor in dogs. Am J Vet Res 65 :502-512 * When used according to label directions. Merial Australia Pty Ltd, Building D, 12-24 Talavera Road, Macquarie Park, NSW 2113. ABN 53 071 187 285. ®PREVICOX is a registered trademark of Merial. ©2015 Merial Limited. All rights reserved. PREV.15.02.0051.

PREVICOX RELIEVES PAIN WITH• Once daily dosing - with or without food1

• Fast acting comfort - peak plasma levels achieved within90 minutes of dosing2

• Safety - high COX-2 selectivity while sparing COX-1 at therapeutic doses3*

Dogs suffering from osteoarthritis need proven relief from pain and infl ammation.

Prev Exceed Exp Trade ad_Provet.indd 1 31/03/2015 9:27 am

MAY 2015

News + eventsSouth Australia leads charge 8SA announces comprehensive animal welfare reforms; Million PAWS Walk; botulism warning, and more ...

Cover storyA passage to India 24How an Australian veterinary couple are helping India eradicate rabies

Your worldAn obesity crisis 14Caring for 21st-century pets

Your businessPay day 18Experts reveal how to negotiate your income

Virtual reality 21Online consultations have great potential to improve patient care

Vets in motion 28Why it’s worth considering a mobile vet practice

Your toolsNew products 12The latest and greatest gear for your practice

Product guide 31Vet Practice magazine’s guide to the best products at the 2015 Pan Pacific conference

Tools of the trade 52Reviewed by your peers

Your lifeAll fired up 54After joining the Rural Fire Service, Dr Anna Pillich of Kulnura Veterinary Clinic in NSW became one of the first female deputy captains in her area

Contents

C O N T E N T S

24

18

28 54

PRACTICE Editorial Director Rob Johnson

Sub-editor Kerryn Ramsey

Editor Nicole Hogan

Digital Director Ann Gordon

Art Director Lucy Glover

Contributors John Burfitt, Akash Arora, Sue Nelson, Nicole Szollos

Commercial Director Mark Brown

For all editorial or advertising enquiries:Phone (02) 9660 6995 Fax (02) 9518 5600info@vetpracticemag.com.au

Vet Practice magazine is published 11 times a year by Engage Media, Suite 4.17, 55 Miller Street, Pyrmont NSW 2009. ABN 50 115 977 421. Views expressed in Vet Practice magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher, editor or Engage Media. Printed by Webstar.

21

14

Sales Director Adam Cosgrove

4,517 - CAB Audited as at September 2014

PREVICOX® EXCEEDINGEXPECTATIONS

MOVING AHEAD IN OA

- C

red

its:

JM

Lab

at

1. Refer to PREVICOX product label for full claim details. 2. Merial Data on File, PR&D 84101. 3. McCann, M.E., Andersen, D.R., & Zhang, D. et al (2004) In vitro activity and in vivo effi cacy of a novel COX-2 inhibitor in dogs. Am J Vet Res 65 :502-512 * When used according to label directions. Merial Australia Pty Ltd, Building D, 12-24 Talavera Road, Macquarie Park, NSW 2113. ABN 53 071 187 285. ®PREVICOX is a registered trademark of Merial. ©2015 Merial Limited. All rights reserved. PREV.15.02.0051.

PREVICOX RELIEVES PAIN WITH• Once daily dosing - with or without food1

• Fast acting comfort - peak plasma levels achieved within90 minutes of dosing2

• Safety - high COX-2 selectivity while sparing COX-1 at therapeutic doses3*

Dogs suffering from osteoarthritis need proven relief from pain and infl ammation.

Prev Exceed Exp Trade ad_Provet.indd 1 31/03/2015 9:27 am

DP-50VetOnly $8,000RRP: $9,500 Ideal for the general practice

environment

Package Includes the following:

Mindray DP-50Vet Ultrasound System1x Transducer of choice

Sale Price $8,000 (RRP $9,500)

Visit BCF at stand #104 for a range of deals www.bcfultrasound.com or call us on 1300 798 747

DP-10VetLightweight, portable ultrasound system(RRP: $4,200)

DP-30VetYour ideal Equine Reproductive Tool(RRP: $8,600)

Z5VetAffordable Colour Doppler System(RRP: $12,000)

Z6VetSuperior image quality, Colour and Pulsed Wave Doppler. (RRP: $16,000)

$9,500$13,500

$3,500

ConferencePanPac

More great ultrasound + probe deals.....

$7,950

Free Bag & Battery

*Prices are in AUD and exclude GST/Freight and are only available until 30th June 2015 or while stocks last. Package prices include System and 1x compatible transducer. Contact BCF Ultrasound for full terms and conditions.

Stand #104

AUS 1300 798 747 | NZ +64 9 257 1212sales@bcfultrasound.com | www.bcfultrasound.com

Vetpractice PanPac 2015.indd 1 6/05/2015 2:43 pm

DP-50VetOnly $8,000RRP: $9,500 Ideal for the general practice

environment

Package Includes the following:

Mindray DP-50Vet Ultrasound System1x Transducer of choice

Sale Price $8,000 (RRP $9,500)

Visit BCF at stand #104 for a range of deals www.bcfultrasound.com or call us on 1300 798 747

DP-10VetLightweight, portable ultrasound system(RRP: $4,200)

DP-30VetYour ideal Equine Reproductive Tool(RRP: $8,600)

Z5VetAffordable Colour Doppler System(RRP: $12,000)

Z6VetSuperior image quality, Colour and Pulsed Wave Doppler. (RRP: $16,000)

$9,500$13,500

$3,500

ConferencePanPac

More great ultrasound + probe deals.....

$7,950

Free Bag & Battery

*Prices are in AUD and exclude GST/Freight and are only available until 30th June 2015 or while stocks last. Package prices include System and 1x compatible transducer. Contact BCF Ultrasound for full terms and conditions.

Stand #104

AUS 1300 798 747 | NZ +64 9 257 1212sales@bcfultrasound.com | www.bcfultrasound.com

Vetpractice PanPac 2015.indd 1 6/05/2015 2:43 pm

EQUINE VETERINARIANS AUSTRALIA (EVA) has a membership of over 1,000, and is the peak professional association representing Australia’s equine veterinarians. We write in regard to the April cover story, Hendra - The Vaccination Debate. For an article that the cover claims is “…an in-depth investigation covering the facts from vets and horse owners”, the article was surprisingly lacking in depth, and suffered from very limited research. It was, in summary, a poor article. Your readership are professional veterinarians, together with their clinical staff; these are highly educated people, who expect a high standard of journalism from a magazine purporting to investigate and report on the issues confronting a veterinary practice today. EVA has now received numerous member complaints with regard to the article, and we are compelled to bring this to your attention and to ask for the right of reply in your next hard copy edition of Vet Practice Magazine.

Hendra virus is a deadly and infectious disease which has killed people, and continues to kill horses on the east coast of Australia every year. Horse owners are fortunate that a safe and effective Hendra vaccine has now been developed by the CSIRO in Australia, in conjunction with internationally renowned, leading US scientists. The CSIRO is one of the world’s most internationally respected scientific research bodies. The Australian Government’s Veterinary Medicine Authority, the APVMA, are the approving and regulatory authority for the vaccine; this vaccine has met the most stringent requirements of the APVMA, and was released for widespread use under APVMA Permit Number 14876. The article states that, “…the vaccine’s been released on a minor use permit, which means it’s supposed to be used to control outbreaks of the disease.” The article

also states that, “…until the vaccine is a registered product, it should be used as it states on its minor usage permit, which is purely around the disease itself to stop outbreaks.” These assertions as “fact” are completely incorrect. The vaccine is permitted by the Australian Government for use in all areas of Australia, and your journalist should have, at the very least, checked the conditions of the Permit, which are readily available online, and quick to read.

Your article states that, “…there are now growing concerns over the safety of the vaccine.” Where is the evidence of this growing concern? Where is it growing? Over 350,000 doses of the vaccine have been administered; what numbers of “growing concern” did your journalist’s investigation uncover? What instrument did your journalist use to measure this claim? Are these results available for scrutiny, and are

they statistically valid?Anti-vaccinationists exist in all walks

of life. It appears that your journalist has relied on a combination of rumours, anecdotes, commentary and innuendo sourced from social media. Any assertion or assumption by your journalist or others that comment sourced from social media is a true representation of scientific fact is a dangerous and invalid misinterpretation and misrepresentation. This has been well-demonstrated than in the United States, which is currently experiencing deaths in a human epidemic of measles. This epidemic could have been avoided if the people infected had been vaccinated with a safe and effective measles vaccine, and not been misled by ill-informed anti-vaccinationists using social media to distort the true scientific facts and benefits of a safe, efficacious vaccine. The same situation has occurred in Australia with

L E T T E R T O T H E E D I T O R

5

Dear Editor

C O V E R S T O RY

18

Pho

tog

rap

hy:

CS

IRO

19

have been growing unverified reports

of horses having adverse reactions to

the injections, ranging from localised

swelling, hair loss, rashes and fever, to

colic, and horses dropping dead in the

days following the vaccine.

Seven horse deaths are currently being

invested by the Australian Pesticides and

Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA)

for a possible link to the vaccine.

While Zoetis claims that reactions

are possible with any vaccine, they’ve

seen a reaction rate of less than 0.3 per

cent—that’s 960 reactions out of the

320,000 vaccines administered so far.

And the majority of these reactions are

localised swelling at the injection site.

Vicki Roycroft, a six-time Olympic

equestrian rider, has seen many of these

side effects first-hand, however,

and believes that can be

more severe than Zoetis

describes.“I knew a horse who,

after the first injection,

was so swollen that

it couldn’t feed in the

paddock for a week.

I understand a bit of a

sore neck and swelling,

but if a horse can’t put their

head down to feed, that’s not

right,” she says.

She’s also seen more severe

reactions develop after subsequent

boosters. “A neighbour’s horse had a

reaction the first time she gave him the

vaccine, so she decided to inject it into

his chest the next time. The next day

he developed laminitis problems. I’ve

also seen horses getting really sick and

horses are dying after the vaccine. Of

course, the two could be unrelated, but

there are too many coincidences.”

Equestrian rider Sue Vickery has had

both of her horses react to the vaccine.

“The first two reactions were quite mild.

The horses were off colour, not eating

for 24 hours and very lethargic. The

second reaction was far worse, with a

temperature of 39 degrees for 24 hours,

muscle soreness and swelling after a

short walk. They didn’t eat normal feed

for four days,” she says.

“My older horse is now 16 and has

ongoing wind problems, green mucus

continually comes out of one or other

nostril at random, and he doesn’t have

the energy to be trained for more than

10 to 15 minutes.”

All these reactions experienced by

horses are reported by veterinarians

to Zoetis, who then passes them onto

the APVMA for investigation, which

is standard practice for all animal

pharmaceutical products in Australia.

The vaccine itself has been thoroughly

researched—it’s made up of a protein

called sG, which helps the

Hendra virus infect cells.

Because it doesn’t

actually contain any of

the live virus, there’s

no risk of infection

from the vaccine.

And veterinarian Dr

Stephanie Armstrong,

a spokesperson for

Zoetis, explains that its

safety isn’t in question when

used on a healthy horse

over the age of four months.

“Equivac HeV went

through the same safety and efficacy

testing any vaccine goes through prior

to being released,” says Dr Armstrong.

“Efficacy was proved through challenge

studies and serology studies, while safety

studies were also completed. The vaccine

performed very well in all studies.”

Dr Armstrong explains that all of the

safety and trial information has been

submitted to the APVMA, and that the

vaccine has now been ‘gazetted’ by

the APVMA, which is one of the final

steps before registration is finalised. A

spokesperson from the APVMA added

that this is a normal processing time for

With growing concern over the safety of the

Hendra vaccine, Fiona MacDonald talks to

vets and horse owners to get the facts

Inside the Hendra vaccine debate

IN JULY 2009, DR ALISTER RODGERS

was called out to a stud farm near

Rockhampton, Queensland to examine

a couple of horses that had fallen ill.

The 55-year-old did a full physical

and took blood samples, but couldn’t

determine what was wrong. A few

days later, one of the fillies died,

and the post-mortem confirmed that

she was infected with the Hendra

virus. Unfortunately, Rodgers had

been exposed.

He was rushed to hospital for

anti-viral medication but his health

quickly deteriorated, and at the

start of September, he passed away,

becoming the fourth person in

Queensland to die from the Hendra

virus since it was discovered in 1994,

in addition to almost 100 horses.

Rodger’s death, which came just

months after the death of another young

Queensland vet, was met with renewed

demand for protection against the virus.

Hendra is transferred from bats to

horses via bodily fluids, and then from

horses to humans in the same way, and

so vaccinating horses was determined

the best way for us to stay safe.

In 2012, after more than a decade of

research by the CSIRO, an Equivac HeV

was released, and the equine industry

breathed a sigh of relief.

Three years on, however, and the

vaccine is still waiting to be registered

by the Australian Pesticides and

Veterinary Medicines Authority. Despite

this fact, it’s already been widely pushed

out by vets and event organisers across

Australia. And there are now growing

concerns over the safety of the vaccine,

how necessary it is in areas that aren’t

exposed to bats and also how often it’s

being recommended.

Early in 2014, vets reported that

the uptake of the vaccine had been

“disappointingly slow”. Most likely

because the immunisation costs around

$110 per dose, and requires at least

three doses to ensure protection, plus

ongoing boosters every six months are

currently recommended.

Then, on July 1, the industry’s national

governing body, Equestrian Australia

(EA), put in place a by-law strongly

recommending the Hendra vaccine to

all members, and stating that all horses

from Queensland and New South Wales

would need to be vaccinated in order to

enter competitions. The by-law was met

with strong resistance from members,

and in February this year was revoked.

“It’s a fear campaign,” says Dr

Matthew Walker, a vet with Thirlmere

Veterinary Clinic in NSW.

“The vaccine’s been released on

a minor use permit, which means

it’s supposed to be used to control

outbreaks of the disease, but they’re

now recommending vaccination of

horses in Wagga Wagga, Perth and

Canberra—places where there have

never been outbreaks.”

To be clear, Dr Walker isn’t against

the vaccine and believes it would

play an important role in stopping an

outbreak, “but the way it’s being used

now is unnecessary”.

“They’re scaring pony club mums with

the vaccine campaign and making them

think their children’s lives are at risk.

It’s irresponsible,” he adds, referring to

the campaign by vaccine-manufacturer

Zoetis. Some of the ads rolled out contain

images of children, vets and equestrian

competitors, and contain emotive slogans

such as: ‘Don’t gamble with your horse’s

life—or your own’.

There have now been around 120,000

horses vaccinated, and while many

owners are happy with the results, there

A coloured transmission

electron micrograph of

the Hendra virus.

Vet Practice magazine April 2015 edition

6

respect to childhood immunisation for vaccine-preventable diseases, resulting in the current Federal Government’s decision to withdraw family benefits from parents who refuse vaccination without valid medical or religious grounds.

The Queensland Government’s Department of Workplace Health and Safety continues to recommend the vaccine, and has this to say about the Hendra virus and the vaccine: “Hendra virus is a serious zoonotic disease for which stringent biosecurity, work health and safety and infection control measures are necessary… The Hendra vaccine is the single most effective way of reducing the risk of Hendra virus infection in horses and provides a work health and safety and public health benefit. Vaccination of horses is strongly encouraged and veterinarians should discuss this with their clients.” This recommendation for horse vaccination as the recommended first step in human disease prevention is also confirmed in

the Queensland Department of Health’s Hendra virus Infection Prevention Advice, October 2014, which is readily available online. These authoritative sources should have been referenced in the article; however, your author has failed to do so.

You owe it to your readers to explain that the exposure risk to Hendra virus is genuine and real. In 2014 alone, after exposure to Hendra virus horse cases, six people were deemed to be sufficiently at risk of becoming infected by the Hendra virus, that the Queensland Department of Health offered them emergency treatment on compassionate grounds, and administered the most advanced anti-viral treatment of a monoclonal antibody. This is a most serious medical decision, and is not taken lightly by the State’s health authority. We would question whether your journalist sought information from Queensland Health in preparing her article.

The article by your journalist states that, “Vicki Roycroft, a six-time Olympic

equestrian rider, has seen many of these side effects first-hand, however, and believes they can be more severe than Zoetis describes.” Given that the article is investigative and dealing with the “facts”, what numbers of horses and incidents are involved in this claim? This is an anecdotal report, and should have been identified as such.

Vaccines by their very nature are meant to stimulate an immune response; that’s the essence of effective immunisation against disease. When a human is given a vaccine injection, it is common for the arm to become swollen and sensitive at the site of the injection for a day or so. It is no different in a horse; after administration of the Hendra vaccine, the horse’s neck may become slightly swollen at the injection site for a few days. This is normal, and is not considered to be an adverse reaction; there is nothing wrong, and the swelling quickly subsides. In the vast majority of cases, horses do not show any visible reactions.

Your journalist also quoted two veterinarians in the article, neither of whom work in a Hendra virus endemic area. Why did the journalist not speak with, or quote, any of the high number of equine veterinarians who work in Queensland and Northern New South Wales? These vets work in the Hendra endemic areas every day of the year, and many have diagnosed live Hendra cases and subsequently managed the exposure to this infectious deadly disease (one veterinary clinic in Queensland, for instance, has now experienced and diagnosed its fourth case of Hendra virus infection). These veterinarians have an entirely different point of view, and deserve to be heard.

Such is the number and significance of the errors in this article (including, but not limited to, your author quoting Dr Stephanie Armstrong as saying that, “the Hendra vaccine’s mortality rate is more than 50 per cent in humans and 100% in horses” - this is an error of the worst possible degree), we strongly suggest that you consider making a retraction statement forthwith.

Yours sincerely, Dr Nathan Anthony President, EVADr Ian Fulton Incoming President, EVA

L E T T E R T O T H E E D I T O R

20

C O V E R S T O R Y

the registration of a vaccine. However,

there are also concerns from horse

owners about how often they’re being

told to vaccinate. In the current APVMA

permit, PER14876, there is no clear

evidence to show that, after the first

six-month booster, it’s necessary to keep

immunising every six months.

Zoetis explains that this is because

the data on how long the antibodies

last following subsequent boosters is

still being analysed, but this frequency

was shown to be safe in their trials.

But without the conclusive research

showing how often booster shots are

really needed, many are worried

that they are over-vaccinating their

horses unnecessarily.

“We love our horses and we want

to protect them with vaccines, but

not over-vaccinate at the expense

of their immune systems,” says

Madeline Horne, a horse owner and

equestrian competitor for Queensland.

“We have performance horses—they

are athletes. We need them healthy not

chronically unwell and unable to fight

off infection,” she adds.

While Dr Armstrong can’t respond to

individual reports of adverse reactions

without further investigation, she says the

way it’s currently being used has been

supported by their studies, which have

been submitted to the APVMA, and it will

now be up to the APVMA to make the final

decision on the frequency of boosters.

“The Hendra vaccine has been in

the marketplace for over two years now

with some horses having received five or

six doses. We have not seen any trend

i PA D

Our iPad edition of this article features more incredible images. Search for Vet Practice Magazine in the App store.

that indicates the risk of adverse events

increases over time,” she explains.

“Unfortunately, the internet can be

a great source of misinformation. Some

horse owners can be worried by what

they read online, but the stories online

do not reflect the real world data from

hundreds of thousands of doses and

they’re very different to what I hear

from equine vets I talk to.”

Dr Armstrong also reminds horse

owners that the Hendra virus mortality

rate is more than 50 per cent in humans

and 100 per cent in horses, as any sign

of infection will result in an animal being

put down. “As with other vaccines, the

benefits of vaccination far outweigh the

minimal risks,” she adds.

Dr David Searle, a vet from the

Illawarra Equine Centre in NSW, agrees

that we should be wary of listening too

much to unverified claims. “The horse

owners all wanted this vaccine when the

outbreak was there. We are listening way

too much to a minority.”

His practice has vaccinated around

1800 to 2000 horses, ranging from

elderly to young foals, and haven’t

seen reactions more severe than fever

and swollen necks. “Just what’s to be

expected,” he adds.

What’s more worrying, Dr Searle

explains, are claims that vets are

now refusing to treat horses that

aren’t vaccinated.

Jo Moore, a member of the Say No To

The Hendra Vaccine Facebook group,

from Queensland, has heard reports

some vets are refusing to touch a horse

until it’s been cleared of Hendra infection.

“One horse had a broken neck

propped up with a hay bale for three

days waiting for a negative Hendra result

before the vet would attend and put him

to sleep,” she explains.

While Dr Searle understands vets’

concerns, he explains, he would never

put a client in a position where they felt

pressured to vaccinate. “It’s important

to keep it scientific. All you can do is

tell clients the risk of Hendra in your

area, the risk factors, the side effects of

the vaccine, what it costs, and let them

decide what they want to do.”

Dr Walker agrees. “If I had a horse

within a 10-kilometre radius of where

there’s been an outbreak, then I’d

definitely vaccinate. But if you’re not in

a risk area, is it worth risking the horse’s

health by vaccinating?” he asks.

He believes it’s important to also remind

people of preventive measures, such as

wearing personal protective equipment

(PPE) when in contact with sick horses,

and reminding owners to clear or fence

off any trees that house bats.

“Until the vaccine is a registered

product, it should be used as it states

on its minor usage permit, which is

purely around the disease itself to stop

outbreaks,” he adds.

Registration is something that Zoetis

expects to happen in 2015, and with that

will come APVMA recommendations on

the frequency of immunisations, as well

as reassurances over its safety.

Until then, vets can expect to have

question from concerned horse owners,

and will need to have all the facts to

answer them.

“We need to listen to our clients and

talk to them about their risks, instead

of just pressuring them to vaccinate,”

says Dr Walker.

Owners should clear or fence off any trees that house bats.

For more information on the VetQuip “PRO” Anaesthesia

System visit www.vetquip.com.au or call 1300 888 427

VetQuip “PRO” Anaesthesia SystemFEATURES

New slim line design, with monitor shelf

Powder coated, impact resistant chassis

Pistol grip directional handle

Balanced, polished alloy 5 star base, with platform

height adjustment

0 - 8lpm precision medical grade rotameter with

graduated scale

High volume 80lpm flush valve

Polycarbonate circle absorber

Coaxial F circuit and rebreathing bag

Paediatric ayres T-piece

2 metres of oxygen hose with hand wheel

2 metres of scavenge tube

Optional monometer guage available (pressure check

your machine & monitor circuit pressure)

Optional pole mounted O2 cylinder holder (D size)

† Vaporiser and monitor sold separately.

Vaporiser Options

VQ1499 VetQuip III Iso Vaporiser (NEW)

VQ1335 Penlon Delta Iso Vaporiser (NEW)

VQ1336 Penlon Delta Iso Vaporiser (Refurbished)

VQ1337 Blease B Series Iso Vaporiser (Refurbished)

Anaesthetic Accessories

VQ3099 O-Series Oxygen Regulator

VQ3100 Key Fill Bottle Adaptor

VQ3169A Active Scavenge System

VQ3220 Aldasorber Waste Gas Absorber (200g)

VQ3222 Clean Air Filter Waste Gas Absorber (50G)

VQ3190 Pink Corrugated Scavenge Tube 22mm

VQ3145 SodaSorb LF Soda Lime 4.5kg

Vaporiser Servicing

VetQuip’s vaporiser service centre offers full service for all models of:

Ohmeda Blease Penlon Drager

Conversions to Isoflurane and Sevoflurane now available for a wide range of

vaporisers.

Our experienced biomedical technicians service and repair an extensive range of medical

equipment. VetQuip’s commitment to quality and customer care is established throughout

all departments within the company. Professional, friendly and helpful staff, are always

available to discuss your requirements and to provide answers to your technical questions.

For extremely competitive prices and exceptional service contact

VetQuip on 1300 888 427

VetQuip anaesthesia systems now

feature a

5 year warranty*

*5 year warranty excludes vaporiser

calibration, misuse, normal ware & tear

polycarbonate absorber & circuits.

VetQuip offer

a full range

of mobile

and modular

anaesthetic

machines.

VetQuip prides

itself on supplying

quality and reliable

equipment to its

customers. Unlike

some, we won’t

sacrifice quality over

price. Customers

can be confident

knowing our

products are backed

and supported

by our after sales

service and support

team.

To read the full article: Inside the Hendra

vaccine debate go to vetpracticemag.com.au

Fel-O-Vax FIV kittens become cats that keep coming back

Based on a survey of 213 clinics around Australia1, 76% of vets believe that FIV vaccination of kittens is likely to increase the number of repeat annual vaccinations throughout a cat’s life.

Fel-O-Vax FIV kittensbecome cats that keep coming back

References: 1. Boehringer-Ingelheim data on fi le.

Australia: Boehringer Ingelheim Pty Limited ABN 52 000 452 308. Animal Health Division, 78 Waterloo Road, North Ryde NSW 2113. Toll free: 1800 038 037. Fel-O-Vax FIV® is a registered trademark of Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica Inc. Bi825TA-07/14

BI825 PressAds-FIV Passport.indd 1 06/08/2014 16:46:31

Mandatory microchipping for all dogs and cats, fines up to $10,000 for owners who allow their dogs to attack, and moves to stamp out puppy farms in South Australia are among comprehensive animal welfare reforms announced this week.

In the biggest shake-up in more than 20 years in the State, proposed laws will also see breeders required to register with the Dog and Cat Management Board, along with the introduction of a new code of practice to make sure family pets come from healthy and humane conditions.

South Australian Sustainability, Environment and Conservation Minister Ian Hunter launched the reform package with representatives from the RSPCA, Animal Welfare League, Australian Veterinary Association, Dog and Cat Management Board, and the Local Government Association (LGA).

“Two out of three households in our state own a pet—most of which are dogs or cats—and these reforms are designed, above all, to improve the welfare of our pets,” he said.

“Most breeders love their animals

and conduct their business in clean, appropriate conditions, but unfortunately that’s not always the case.

“Registration and a code of practice for breeders will help separate ethical operators from puppy farmers—backyard traders who breed animals in shocking conditions for a quick profit—while giving consumers confidence that their pet comes from a reputable source.

“Additionally, requiring dog and cat owners to microchip their pets is the best way to reduce the number of pets lost or abandoned in shelters—sadly, many of which end up euthanised.”

The proposed new laws aim to reduce the number of dog attacks—which have doubled over the past 10 years to just over 1300 annually—by doubling the fines for allowing a dog to attack and giving councils greater powers to enforce local laws and levy fines.

South Australia’s LGA president

Mayor David O’Loughlin welcomed the proposed law changes.

“The current laws create some uncertainty when council officers try to solve local dog and cat problems. The new laws will make it easier for council to take action against people who allow their pets to do the wrong thing, such as wandering the streets or attacking people and other animals,” he said.

“Microchipping laws will also maximise the chances that council pounds and animal shelters can return pets safely to their homes.”

Animal Welfare League (AWL) SA spokesperson Sabine Kloss endorsed the launch of the reforms.

“The AWL completely support the legislative changes to introduce mandatory microchipping by the State Government,” she said.

SA leads charge in animal welfare reforms

8

news + events

The Australian Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animal’s biggest national fundraising event, the Million Paws Walk, takes place on Sunday, May 17. Money raised through online fundraising, activities on the day and merchandise sales actively assist RSPCA to continue its operations, programs and services, as well as supporting its daily battle to stop animal cruelty.

Whatever the age, size, breed or ability, all dogs are welcome for a fantastic doggy day out. No four-legged friend? Not to worry—even those without

pooches are welcome to join in the fun. The event goes ahead, even in the rain, so please remember to dress appropriately. Keeping a stash of poo bags in your pocket is also a great idea, as all guests are asked to clean up after their own pooch.

According to RSPCA NSW, every dollar you raise will make a big difference and will assist RSPCA in reaching its goal of $375,000. For venue details and to register online, visit millionpawswalk.com.au and click on your State.

Walk to fight animal cruelty

PUT THE TREAT BACK INTO TREATMENTGLYDE® MOBILITY CHEWS FOR DOGS

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT OFFERING GLYDE CHEWS IN YOUR CLINIC, PLEASE CONTACT US AT 1.800.665.882, VIA EMAIL AT ORDERS@PARNELL.COM, OR CONTACT YOUR WHOLESALER.

• Proven control of clinical symptoms of OA

• Aids in improvement of joint health and function

• Proven therapeutic dose of both chondroprotective and anti-inflammatory ingredients

• Easy to break, soft, heart-shaped chew

• Made with pride in Australia

GLYDE® is a registered trademark of Parnell Technologies Pty, Ltd.©2015 Parnell MKT 15-016-CA AU

No shark cartilage is used in GLYDE Chews.

Actual chew colour may vary.

10

news + events

Botulism warningVets are warning dairy farmers in south-east New South Wales to be on the lookout for signs of the paralysing disease, botulism.

Local Land Services district veterinarian Helen Schaefer, based in Bega, said there was a lack of awareness about botulism.

A south-east NSW farmer lost 10 dairy cows to botulism several months ago in which many of the common signs of the disease were not expressed in the cattle.

“In these intensive industries where we are using conserved fodder in the form of silage or large hay bales, you can get things like rodents and snakes incorporated into that feed,” Schaefer said.

“Under the right conditions, you then can get bacteria producing those toxins in that feed and that can then be consumed by the dairy cattle.”

The toxin then travels through the blood stream and attacks the nerve endings causing paralysis. With high doses, this can lead to sudden deaths but low doses can present as muscle weakness. (Source: ABC Rural)

The 2015 Don Kerr Veterinary Student Award winnerOne of the University of Melbourne’s Doctor of Veterinary Medicine graduates, Sam Morgan, has won the Australian Veterinary Association’s Don Kerr Veterinary Student Award.

Dr Morgan’s the first Tasmanian to win since the award began, and the first person from the south of Australia in a number of years.

He grew up around livestock, following his parents around the north, east, King Island and northern Tasmania. After school, he started his career as a stockman in the Northern Territory, and after two years, returned to study at the University of Tasmania. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science and First Class Honours.

He wanted to continue his involvement in agriculture and the production animal industry, and started work in Deniliquin, NSW, where his team managed 7000 cattle and 40,000 lambs. He worked with consulting vets, and this led him to consider a career in veterinary science. He applied to Melbourne’s Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program in 2011 and due to his exceptional experience with cattle, he was awarded a Rural Veterinary Student Scholarship.

Dr Morgan graduated last year and began working at Scottsdale Veterinary Services in Tasmania, which is known for its strong focus on beef and dairy cattle medicine. Congratulations, Sam!

Off to a flying start.

vetmedin.com.au or vetmedin.co.nz User name: veterinarian Password: livelongerAustralia: Boehringer Ingelheim Pty Limited. Animal Health Division. Level 1, 78 Waterloo Road, North Ryde, NSW 2113. Toll Free 1800 038 037.

New Zealand: Boehringer Ingelheim (N.Z.) Limited. Animal Health Division. Level 1, Unit 9, 42 Ormiston Road, East Tamaki, Auckland 2016. Toll Free 0800 802 461. Restricted Veterinary Medicine. Access is only through a veterinary authorisation. Vetmedin® contains pimobendan. Vetmedin® is a registered trademark of Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica GmbH. © Boehringer Ingelheim Pty Limited, 2014. All rights reserved. WH BI19169/VP

References: 1. Häggström J, Boswood A, O’Grady M, et al. Effect of pimobendan or benazepril hydrochloride on survival times in dogs with congestive heart failure caused by naturally occurring myxomatous mitral valve disease: the QUEST study. J Vet Intern Med. 2008;22(5):1124–1135. 2. Lombard CW, Jöns O, Bussadori CM; for the VetSCOPE Study. Clinical efficacy of pimobendan versus benazepril for the treatment of acquired atrioventricular valvular disease in dogs. J Am Anim Hosp Assoc. 2006;42(4):249–261.

Choose Vetmedin® Injectable as a fast-acting option in the clinic to provide rapid, reliable cardiovascular treatment. Then, send your dogs home with an oral formulation to help them feel better and live longer.1,2

Bring new life to your treatment protocol. Order Vetmedin® Injectable today!

Introducing Vetmedin® Injectable solution for dogs.Fast action, fast response. Ideal for initiation treatment in dogs with heart failure.

BI19169 Vetmedin Injectable Vet Ad-210x297 VP.indd 1 15/04/15 10:28 AM

12

l See the difference with Prascend®Equine Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID) previously known as Equine Cushing’s disease can often go undiagnosed. It was previously thought to be a disease of older horses but more and more horses are being diagnosed at an earlier age1. Because the early signs of the disease can often be very subtle, it may often be overlooked until the disease is in an advanced stage. If PPID is left untreated it can lead to a variety of problems for horses ranging from abnormal fat deposits to the devastating consequences from laminitis2.

To raise recognition of PPID, Boehringer Ingelheim is sponsoring a PPID awareness campaign through the ‘talkaboutlaminitis’

initiative. For a limited time Boehringer Ingelheim, in conjunction with IDEXX is providing free ACTH testing for equine vets that suspect they have a patient with PPID. By going onto www.talkaboutlaminitis.com.au you can access the free ACTH testing vouchers today.

Prascend® is the optimal solution for the management of PPID. With a 2 year shelf life Prascend’s® tableted design ensures that a stable quality formulation of pergolide is being delivered with each dose. By using Prascend® as part of your PPID management protocol, you can help reduce the signs of PPID and improve horses quality of life3.

For more information, go to www.talkaboutlaminitis.com

ReferenceDonaldson MT, McDonnell SM, Schanbacher BJ, Lamb SV, McFarlane D, Beech J. Variation in plasma adrenocorticotropic hormone concentration and dexamethasone suppression test results with season, age, and sex in healthy ponies and horses. J Vet Intern Med. 2005;19(2):217-222.McGowan TW, Hodgson DR, McGowan CM. The prevalence of equine Cushing’s syndrome in aged horses. In: Proceedings from the 25th American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine Forum; June 6-9, 2007; Seattle, WA. Abstract 603.PRASCEND® (pergolide mesylate) [Freedom of Information Summary]. St. Joseph, MO: Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc.; 2011.

N E W P R O D U C T S

PRODUCTS GUIDENEWThe latest and greatest products for vet practices

l Flea protectionWHAT: Bravecto® represents a quantum leap forward in tick and flea protection. It is the first and only oral chew to deliver extended protection for three months against fleas and four months against paralysis ticks—all in a single chew.

When:Full year flea protection is achieved in just four tasty doses of Bravecto – protection at every season. It can be given to a dog at any time of day, however, it is recommended that Bravecto be administered at or around

the time of feeding due to its greater absorption into the circulation. Bravecto starts working within hours, providing effective control of fleas within 8 hours of administration and effective control of pre-existing paralysis tick infestations within 24 hours. Bravecto fits easily into gastrointestinal worming programs, where treatments occur every 3 months.

How:Bravecto is administered orally in a highly palatable chew format. There is no mess to administer and no liquids to spill or transfer. It also won’t wash off or rub off, so dog owners

can keep doing things they love with their dog without interruption. Coat length, grooming or brushing have no impact on how Bravecto works.

Why:To date, protection from fleas and deadly paralysis ticks has most commonly been gained from products that require fortnightly or monthly application. As a result, many pet owners may forget to treat, leaving dogs unprotected, and pet owners worried. One dose of Bravecto does what some other products do with three.

Who:It is available for a range of dog breeds and sizes and can be used on puppies from 8 weeks of age weighing at least 2kg. It is also safe to administer to breeding, pregnant and lactating dogs.

Where:Bravecto is available at leading vet clinics across Australia. Dog owners can register for the free Bravecto reminder email service at www.bravecto.com.au to ensure they don’t miss a dose. The free Bravecto reminder app is available for iOS and Android.

For the latest news and information about Bravecto visit:www.bravecto.com.au or www.facebook.com/Bravecto

Offer for Australian residents only and ends 30th June 2015. This form is a Tax Invoice upon payment. ABN 52 386 446 884. We are committed to handling your personal information in accordance with the Privacy Act. Tick if you do not wish to receive future offers from ¨ Engage Media or ¨ selected partners.

EASY WAYS TO ORDER

My details CAPITALS PLEASE

Dr/Mr/Mrs/Ms/Miss (circle) First name

Surname

Company

Job title

Mailing address

Suburb State Postcode

Telephone

Email

Send to a colleagueDr/Mr/Mrs/Ms/Miss (circle) First name

Surname

Company

Job title

Mailing address

Suburb State Postcode

Telephone

Email

Yes, please start my Vet Practice subscription for:

Me Gift 3 years (33 issues) $150 Save $79.35Me Gift 2 years (22 issues) $110 Save $42.90Me Gift 1 year (11 issues) $60 Save $16.45

(02) 9660 6995 (02) 9518 5600

vetpracticemag.com.au/subscribe PO Box 92, Pyrmont NSW 2009

Payment details

¨ Cheque/money order, made payable to Engage Media for $ is enclosed,

OR charge my ¨ Visa ¨ Mastercard

Card No.

Expiry date

Cardholder’s Name

Signature

Subscriber benefits✔ Savings of up to $79.35 ✔ FREE delivery

Ewe should subscribe…

FEBRUARY 2015 $6.95 GST INCL.

PRACTICE

Through the keyholeWhy minimally invasive

surgery is gaining popularity, page 10

Bright futureWhat you need to

consider to future proof your practice, page 14

Taking the leadWinner of the recent Vet Nurse of the

Year Award, Tiffany Swift, shares what

it takes to be the best Social policyLearn how to manage your workplace social

media usage, page 26

VP011_Cover_FINAL2.indd 1

5/02/2015 12:10 pm

for the all the latest veterinary news, views and reviews to help you succeed

Are you: Renewing or New

M1505VET

Y O U R W O R L D

obesityAn crisis

15

IT IS ONE CONVERSATION IN THE clinic with the pet owner that most vets agree is never easy to have.

“It is just such a touchy subject to talk to people about, and I know some vets find it difficult to start this conversation,” says Dr Liisa Ahlstrom, technical services veterinarian for Bayer Australia.

“You have to work out a way to talk to people about their overweight pet, and they can easily be offended as it can be interpreted as you criticising them for not caring properly for their animal. And if that client before you is overweight as well, it can be an even more delicate topic to broach.”

Finding the right way to tackle the topic about overweight family pets has become a necessity in veterinary circles in recent times, with the reality that our pampered pooches and favoured felines are getting bigger, not smaller.

According to the University of Sydney’s Prevalence of Obesity in Dogs report from 2005, the occurrence of overweight and obese dogs across Australia was 41 per cent.

That prevalence increased with age up to about 10 years old, and then declined. The one surprising twist with the data was that rural and semi-rural dogs were more at risk of obesity than urban and suburban dogs.

Indeed, the report is now a decade old. But veterinarian Dr David Isaac, animal health, innovation and research manager of animal nutritional supplement company Sustenhance, believes that if the same report was conducted today, the results could be higher.

“It is a combination of sedentary lifestyle, far too many treats and more often than not, too much food,” explains

Dr Isaac. “If you look at 30 years ago, the variety and quantity of pet foods and treats were limited. Now the range is extensive, offering far better nutrition, and pets are viewed as an extended family member. And that is part of the problem.”

Dr Isaac believes that when a daily overdose of treats, in addition to hearty helpings of regular meals, is associated with an expression of love and care, then animals are on a sure path to obesity.

“We are all leading busier lifestyles, and if the dog or cat is left alone, they are left with far more treats than they need to keep them happy,” he says. “I know cases where treats make up as much as 10 to 20 per cent of the animal’s daily dietary needs, and yet this is never taken into consideration with their main meals.

“There is also this myth that pets need the same kind of food, and the same amount, as humans. It can be such a danger, as animals have their own very different physiology and digestive systems.”

Which is why Dr Liisa Ahlstrom believes the importance of the family vet having regular conversations with clients about the fitness and wellbeing of their pets can not be understated.

“We are only now realising the consequences of obesity and it is far more on our radar as something to look out for,” she says. “We need to be actively counselling our clients about the impact of obesity and diet on our pets, and the flow on effects that can have on overall quality of life and life expectancy.

“There is a range of high quality, complete and balanced diets available

Just like humans, studies reveal the average Australian family pet is getting fatter. A simpler approach to diet, however, might be just what the doctor ordered. John Burfitt reports

According to the University of Sydney’s Prevalence of Obesity in Dogs report,

the occurrence of overweight and obese dogs across Australia was 41 per cent.

today, and vets are well educated and doing their best to educate clients. But whether pet owners then act upon that advice when they get home is another thing,” says Dr Ahlstrom.

In terms of exercise, a one-size-fits-all approach can never be adopted towards any family pet. Getting a cat out for a daily run is near impossible, but being sure to play with the animal around the house so it is moving is paramount.

In the case of dogs, animal fitness trainer and physiotherapist Karen Uden of Barx Active says a daily walk is an essential. “It is true we are leading more sedentary lives, but dogs need this and their walk must be part of the daily schedule,” she says.

Adding a range of other activities is the ideal scenario, but Uden insists that the age, size and health of the animal all needs to be factored in, especially if conditions like diabetes and arthritis are present.

“With dogs, it is all about variety, so while a walk is good, an additional visit to a dog park where it can interact with other canines or a trip to the shops or even a training activity session is what vets need

Y O U R W O R L D

16

to be encouraging, so the animal is being stimulated in a number of ways,” she says. “One good walk and one other activity a day is what people should aim for.”

A real lack of understanding is the main issue vets face when dealing with overweight family pets, says Dr Lindsay Hay of Sydney’s Baulkham Hills Veterinary Hospital. In short, he says, pets are simply being fed too much.

“If we are seeing overweight cats and dogs, then I believe it is because of overfeeding rather than reduced exercise,” he says.

“There is a widespread belief that obesity is linked to exercise rather than nutrition/overeating. It is important to start the conversation early—as a puppy—so people understand early the connection with overfeeding.

“People need to understand that dogs have a different metabolism and

don’t starve like we do,” says Dr Hay. “Dogs in the wild eat when they can kill and can go for long periods without food, and they get no ill effects. So, the mantra is ‘feed less food, less often’ and reassure people that they can’t hurt their dog by feeding less.”

His ongoing strategy for dealing with overweight pets is to reduce food intake by as much as 50 per cent as a starting point. The dog then needs to be monitored by the vet.

“Then you introduce food that is less energy dense—either special diet foods or home cooked based on protein and vegetables,” he says.

The family veterinarian must, Dr Ahlstrom stresses, take the lead with combating obesity by offering clear instructions for pet owners to follow. “The vet needs to offer the advice on what the animal needs to be fed and at what times through the days,” she says. “And if treats are to be offered, it is part of the routine, not in addition to it.

“It is up to us to intervene now as clients are relying on us. Just don’t leave all of it up to the client to determine. This is one area where the more specific the advice, the better.”

“It is up to us to intervene now as clients are relying on us. Just don’t leave all of it up to the client to determine.”Dr Liisa Ahlstrom, technical services veterinarian for Bayer Australia

A lack of understanding is the main issue vets face when dealing with overweight family pets.

Australian Veterinary Owners’ LeagueThe Australian Veterinary Owners’ League (AVOL) is organising a co-operative sale of veterinary practices in Australia. By selling at the same time, practice owners will be able to take advantage of the high price currently being paid for large group practices.

AVOL is looking for 10 more practices for our co-operative sale.

Who’s the buyer?We’ve secured one of the world’s most experienced veterinary operators as the buyer. With practices in the US and the UK, they are known for maintaining the heritage that practice owners have built over many years. They do not brand practices, do not interfere with medical practice and are known as the vet-friendly alternative to the big publicly traded companies in those countries.

Your practice would benefit from increased CE opportunities, professional back-office support, and access to one of the best veterinary networks in the world. As in other countries, they will create an environment that will encourage you to stay and practise medicine as long as you want.

Why are they paying more?Because we’re all selling at the same time, the buyer will avoid significant administration costs. And by buying a big group, they will be able to afford the large and professional organisation they need to run a high-quality operation. We are also very selective, and are only accepting practices that meet a high standard. These are major advantages that justify the price. Being part of this process will result in a price as much as 50% higher than selling to a traditional acquirer.

How can I join?If you are considering a practice sale, this may be a great time to do it. Our sale will take place at the end of 2015, but we are only accepting new practices until the middle of June. To qualify, you should have more than $1.5M in turnover, be able to arrange a long-term lease with the new owner and have at least three veterinarians working at your practice. We can discuss other criteria in person. The process is entirely confidential.

For more information, please call 1300 412 300 or e-mail confidential@ownersleague.com.au.

Sell your practice for more

The demand for your practice has never been higher. You have multiple offers and are getting letters every week. How do you choose?

Here’s more information about one of your options.

1300 412 300 confidential@ownersleague.com.auwww. ownersleague.com.au

CONTACT

See you at PANPAC!

We will be meeting practice owners

throughout the event. To catch-up over coffee, e-mail us or text us at

0449 211 476.

A co-operative sale of Australian Veterinary practicesJoin us, and sell your practice for more

Y O U R B U S I N E S S

18

Pay day

Do you know what determines your

income and are you comfortable in

salary negotiations? Akash Arora reveals

the answers from experts in the field

You need more than just technical skills to make your business flourish.

19

THERE’S NO DOUBT THERE ARE certain technical skills that can make a vet highly desirable as an employee. “If you can perform dentistry, ultrasound and imaging, you’ll be considered a valuable asset to any practice,” says Dr Dave Nicol, who runs two successful practices, both called Dr Dave’s Vets & Pets, in Sydney’s Darlinghurst and North Ryde. “And if you can perform surgery, then you’ll be a hugely valuable asset.”

Beyond technical skills, however, what are the personality-oriented qualities that can make you a sought-after employee?

Is it self-belief in a treatment that you’re recommending? Or is it confidence that’s required to effectively communicate with your clients? What role does emotional intelligence play in your personal development? And how can ‘growth mindset’ help other industry professionals view you?

We spoke to two industry experts to come up with four cornerstones of self-development, which—if followed to a T —can help take your veterinary career to a whole new level.

Law of self-belief “A lot of vets struggle with the idea of discussing treatment costs with their clients. This is because they feel the costs are too high, but that’s not the case,” says Dr Nicol, who also runs an eponymous business service in Sydney that helps vets tackle industry challenges and advance their career.

“There’s not a huge difference in skill set between performing a knee surgery on a human being as opposed to doing it on a pet. In human medicine, the procedure may range from $10,000 to $15,000, while in pets it may only cost $2000 to $5000. In the case of human medicine, however, we often don’t see those bills. It’s either paid by private health care or covered by Medicare. But you do see the bills for your pets, so there’s a perception that vets

charge too much, when actually we’re astonishingly good value for money,” says Dr Nicol.

It is this false perception of over-charging that erodes vets’ confidence in the advice they’re giving to their clients, hindering their personal growth as well as prospects of scoring good jobs. Practice owners are looking for vets who are skilled, confident and believe in what they’re recommending. So, if you’re able to convince your prospective employer in a job interview that you believe in and are confident of what you preach then, says Dr Nicol, you have ticked off the first major box.

Importance of good communicationThe next big challenge is, of course, being able to effectively communicate with your clients. Employers are seeking vets who are comfortable discussing pet treatments as well as associated costs with pet owners. Empathy, says Dr Nicol, is a golden rule in action here.

“One of the best ways to effectively communicate with clients is, firstly, to think like them, and then to talk like them. As a vet you need to be empathetic to your clients’ circumstances. You need to be friendly—almost be an extension of the pet owner’s extended family. In fact, sometimes it may also help to move away from sounding too professional or cold,” says Dr Nicol, who’s authored the e-book, The Yellow Pages are Dead—Marketing Your Veterinary Practice in the Digital Age.

Dr Natasha Wilks of Brisbane-based High Performance Vets, which helps veterinarians improve their communication skills and income generation, agrees. “Good communication skills not only allow you to discuss costs with clients more effectively, but also help develop

great veterinary-client relationships. And if you’re a veterinarian with great communication skills and have the ability to build a solid client base, then you’ll be a very attractive candidate for your prospective employer,” she says.

The value of emotional intelligenceDr Nicol has hired some highly qualified and experienced veterinarians over the years. He has also fired many of them simply because they were “emotional train wrecks”.

“Emotional intelligence is a massively undervalued skill set in this profession. It’s actually a rare quality to find,” explains Dr Nicol.

Emotional intelligence is the ability to build strong relationships with both your colleagues and clients. It is also the ability of staying calm and cordial when things go wrong.

“Everyone’s a great guy when things are running smoothly. It is when they’re going not so well that an individual’s true personality kicks in,” says Dr Nicol. “In a testing environment, one can easily

“Emotional intelligence is a massively undervalued skill set in this profession. It’s actually a rare quality to find.”Dr Dave Nicol, Dr Dave’s Vets & Pets

turn into a fire-breathing dragon, bossing everyone around and being a pain in the backside. And if you let the circumstances emotionally highjack you, you can easily end up damaging long-term relationships. On the other hand, if you can keep your calm and get through the day with your relationships intact, you’ll become an extremely valuable asset to your practice.”

Dr Wilks agrees. “While emotional intelligence can be cited as a prerequisite

for many professions and industries, it’s an extremely important quality for vets, and one that practice owners are constantly looking for in their staff.”

Nature of growth mindsetMid-career vets can sometimes get a little complacent; at some stage in their career, they might begin to think that they have learnt everything there is to learn about their veterinary profession

Y O U R B U S I N E S S

NVC_VetPractice_halfpage_185x127_v2.indd 1 28/01/15 2:10 PM

or about their industry. “However, the reality is that the

industry and the profession are constantly evolving, and there’s always something a veterinarian can do to improve their existing skills. If you’ve really mastered your existing skills, you should look at developing new ones. For instance, you can work on honing your leadership skills, or team-building skills. As your career progresses, it often calls for a new or different area of expertise,” says Wilks.

This is called growth mindset and practice owners find it to be an attractive trait in their employers. Therefore, as an employee when you’re looking to move from one practice to another seeking career and salary advancement, it’s important to display this hungry-for-self-development attitude. You could do this by subscribing to veterinary journals, for instance, and keeping abreast of the latest advancements in vet medicine.

“A vet who’s not complacent and who’s hungry to learn more and develop their already-existing skills is bound to be quite an asset to a practice,” says Dr Wilks.

Vets never stop learning.

21

YO U R B U S I N E S S

Online consultations have great potential to improve patient care and some Australian practices are already offering an online service for their customers. Sue Nelson finds out what are the potential benefits for more conventional practices

Virtual realityTHE INTERNET HAS BECOME FAR more than a marketing tool—for many veterinarians, it is where real-time consultations actually take place. Better camera technology and increased broadband speeds have made online consultations not only viable, but in many cases more convenient than face-to-face appointments.

For some vets, online consultations are borne of necessity, helping them overcome the tyranny of distance. Dr Susanna Samuelsson lived in remote Arnhem Land for 10 years and owned the vet practice there for six. “We would often see people from within

22

YO U R B U S I N E S S

never the same as touching and listening to the animal,” Dr Samuelsson says. “The owners are very understanding of this and are just grateful for help.

Owner education is the key to a successful online practice. Dr Samuelsson uses a number of ‘how to’ videos that help the owners gather information for her, such as feeling for a pulse or heart beat, taking temperatures and, for the brave, how to put a needle in a lump, to identify whether it’s an abscess or something that needs a biopsy.

A number of sophisticated smartphone apps can help pet owners to record information about their pets ailments. “There is a smartphone device that will attach as a stethoscope,” she says. “This records the sound of the chest and can then be emailed to me. It’s a great investment for someone who has a dog with a heart condition.”

Of course, the better the technology, the better the ability to diagnose accurately. Arlo home security camera

give them help via the internet,” she says. “We can send out medications or email prescriptions for them to fill at the chemist. Sometimes, people are unsure of how severe the problem is and want advice on whether their pet needs to be transported. It is mostly peace of mind.”

Both Drs Chmurycz and Samuelsson have also found there’s an overseas market for online consultations. Dr Chmurycz helps pet owners in the Philippines and Egypt. “A lot are ex-pats who have adopted a pet but can’t access local vet care,” Dr Samuelsson says. “We recently had a lady who was working in rural Mexico and had a dog with a skin condition. She tried to take it to the vet and they washed the dog in washing powder and painted it in ‘blue stuff’. Her Spanish wasn’t very good so she didn’t know what it was. But we were able to help her via the internet. Other clients have come from India, Austria, Mozambique.”

But assessing and diagnosing animals remotely has its challenges. “The important thing to remember is that a consultation online is totally different to the face-to-face consult in a vet hospital,” says Dr Chmurycz. “We do not have the luxury of ‘tone’ or asking lots of questions to get clarification of the problem. We do not have the essential part—physical examination of the pet, which is crucial for correct assessment.”

“Obviously, helping people via Skype is

the communities—nurses, teachers and police who needed vet care for their pets—so we started Skype consulting with good results,” she says. When she moved from the town, she continued to provide the service.

For other vets, online consultations are a way of educating clients and increasing goodwill. Dr Liz Chmurycz decided to offer an online consultation service to bring people’s awareness back to the existence of vets as the experts in the field.

Dr Chmurycz says that she has encountered a lot of misinformation on the internet around animal health. “People were asking their breeder, their friend’s second cousin who did a week vet nursing in year 10, or someone who has simply owned many animals . They felt like these must be the experts.

“Asking a vet is usually a last resort for many pet owners. I think that is sad. I set up online vet consults to encourage people to think of vets first, not last or never,” she says.

Dr Samuelsson’s remote online practice has grown considerably. For pet owners in these areas, the access to online consultations for non-life-threatening ailments is invaluable. “Quite often the owner’s pet will have an ailment such as itchy skin or arthritis that isn’t so pressing that the dog needs to be chartered out on a plane to the nearest town. We can

Arlo home security cameras can be used to monitor pets.

technology, recently introduced in Australia, promises to make online consultations easier from the patient end.

Arlo uses high definition lenses, night vision and motion sensing, allowing users to monitor their pets in real time while they are away from home. “Just set up the camera in out-of-reach areas where your pets have access throughout the day,” says Brad Little, vice-president and managing director of Netgear Australia/New Zealand, the company that produces Arlo.

“If pet owners feel there is something of concern—a foreign object that was eaten, food or water not being consumed throughout the day, or if there are behavioural concerns captured in the footage—the owner can alert their vet and share the video.

“Sometimes these instances are missed and unnecessary time is lost in diagnosing the issue. In some cases, this can be critical to the

“I set up online vet consults to encourage people to think of vets first, not last or never.” Dr Liz Chmurycz, Russell Vale Animal Clinic veterinarian who also runs an online consultation service

survival of the animal. Having access to live online footage allows your vet to see any patterns in behaviour, evidence of injury, or can trigger ideas for further explorations as they undertake a physical exam.”

The question of what to charge for online consultations is vexed. It depends on the level of service you can provide,

and what you’re trying to achieve in offering the service. “We absolutely and unashamedly charge the same consult fee as we do in hospital,” says Dr Samuelsson.“It is not easy to be able to give good practical advice and pick up subtle problems visually via the internet. We need to provide good support

to our clients with hand-outs and videos so we know that there has been

a good understanding of what they need to do. Also, we do not want to discourage people from using a vet service in a clinic by providing a cheap alternative.”

Dr Chmurycz doesn’t charge for her online consultations; she sees them as a goodwill service. The difference is that she doesn’t offer remote diagnosis. She has very specific rules about the advice she can offer but the same principles apply. “Owners want to feel connected to a vet so we need to make it easy for them. Many pet owners take advantage of that, and are thankful to know that we are there.”

A new approach to veterinary practice management is being introduced to Australia that will free vet professionals to focus on patient care rather than administrative tasks.

National Veterinary Care (NVC) has acquired its first practice as a ‘proof of concept’ to show how the partnering concept can improve the quality of pet care as well as streamline practice operations.

The Albion Veterinary Surgery in Brisbane’s inner-northern suburbs is the first in a planned national community of veterinary professionals, aimed at maximising the time vets can spend treating their patients. The practice has made a significant investment in new clinical equipment as well as NVC’s state-of-the-art patient management system.

NVC is well advanced in plans to list on the Australian Stock Exchange this year. NVC chief executive Tomas Steenackers says, “Like pet owners, veterinarians are pet people—they want

to spend as much time as possible caring for their patients. NVC reduces the paperwork burden associated with running a vet practice, and the vets can do what they do best: provide excellent medical care and advice.”

The veterinary industry in Australia is undergoing a generational change as professionals seek more flexibility in their work arrangements. The NVC approach offers vets succession-planning opportunities in their practices, strong administrative support, a broader product offering and the ability to retain the image and brand reputation they have built in their businesses. With an increase in female veterinary staff in the workforce, NVC has made it a core focus to ensure that the culture supports its female members through flexible work options, as they progress through home life and their careers.

Tomas Steenackers says, “NVC’s focus is on professional veterinary services, rather than the broader pet industry. It is not a franchise model with an imposed look and feel. Our back office systems remove the administrative burden of running an efficient vet clinic and free up vets to focus on clinical delivery, which is their

real expertise and passion. No one becomes a veterinarian because they have a secret desire to be a bookkeeper.” NVC centralises payroll, accounts payable, monthly reports and HR in a cloud-based system to facilitate real time data.

Mr Steenackers says NVC would establish a centre of excellence that would provide customised and tailored training programs for veterinarians and nurses.

“Veterinarians who are engaged, empowered and supported by training, guidance and equipment are fundamental to the success of any veterinary practice. NVC plans to develop a training academy that delivers practical training in simulated clinical environments, with a staged progression to facilitate the growth and confidence of vets throughout their careers, from new graduate to senior vet. The opportunity to access top level training is a key factor in retaining good employees.”

Vet practice owners who would like to discuss what opportunities exist to take part in the NVC community can contact Tomas Steenackers on 0402 667 600.

New approach to veterinary practice to revolutionise the Australian industry

t 1300 NVC Vets nvcltd.com.au 155 Varsity Parade, Varsity Lakes Q 4227

Media Release New approach to veterinary practice to revolutionize the Australian industry

• Back office support frees vets to concentrate on patient care • Clinics retain their own branding BRISBANE,  April  29,  2015  –  A  new  approach  to  veterinary  practice  management  is  being  introduced  to  Australia  that  will  free  vet  professionals  to  focus  on  patient  care  rather  than  administrative  tasks.  

National  Veterinary  Care  (NVC)  has  acquired  its  first  practice  as  a  ‘proof  of  concept’  to  show  how  the  partnering  concept  can  improve  the  quality  of  pet  care  as  well  as  streamline  practice  operations.  

The  Albion  Veterinary  Surgery  in  Brisbane’s  inner-­‐northern  suburbs  is  the  first  in  a  planned  national  community  of  veterinary  professionals,  aimed  at  maximising  the  time  vets  can  spend  treating  their  patients.  The  practice  has  made  a  significant  investment  in  new  clinical  equipment  as  well  as  NVC’s  state  of  the  art  patient  management  system.  

NVC  is  well  advanced  in  plans  to  list  on  the  Australian  Stock  Exchange  this  year.  NVC  chief  executive  Tomas  Steenackers  said,  ‘Like  pet  owners,  veterinarians  are  pet  people—they  want  to  spend  as  much  time  as  possible  caring  for  their  patients.  NVC  reduces  the  paperwork  burden  associated  with  running  a  vet  practice,  and  the  vets  can  do  what  they  do  best:  provide  excellent  medical  care  and  advice.’  

The  veterinary  industry  in  Australia  is  undergoing  a  generational  change  as  professionals  seek  more  flexibility  in  their  work  arrangements.  The  NVC  approach  offers  vets  succession-­‐planning  opportunities  in  their  practices,  strong  administrative  support,  a  broader  product  offering  and  the  ability  to  retain  the  

• Back office support frees vets to concentrate on patient care

• Clinics retain their own branding

Advertorial

24

C O V E R S T O RY

Melbourne vets Michael Heath and Lisa Sander have volunteered on street dog programs in India every year

since 2011. The experience has taught them many valuable lessons about being a good vet. John Burfitt reports

A passage to India

IT’S OFTEN SAID THAT ONE OF THE best outcomes of volunteering is it offers the volunteer a new perspective on life. And also on the way they work, if the experience in India of Melbourne veterinarians Dr Michael Heath and Dr Lisa Sander is anything to go by.

The couple has been on four volunteer trips to India since 2011, the most recent being in December last year to Kolkata in north-east India with Mission Rabies, an initiative of World Veterinary Services.

However, during their trip in 2012 to Bylakuppe with Vets Beyond Borders, the significance of what they were successfully able to achieve in the most basic of conditions really hit home.

It was on completion of Dr Heath’s first day working with a local nurse as they de-sexed street dogs and vaccinated for rabies, all completed in a giant tent with the most basic surgical equipment, that he took stock of the results they had achieved.

It quickly put the high cost of the extensive renovations on their East Bentleigh Veterinary Clinic back in Melbourne into sharp focus.

“After that day, I called back to our clinic team in Melbourne and said as a joke, ‘Stop everything—I have just seen that all we need to do our job well is a tent!’” Dr Heath says, laughing. “The experience took me back to basics and the way we had been trained to do a straightforward job.

“The thing about volunteering is you always get far more out of it than the people you are training. I always come back to Australia working more efficiently and effectively, because in India, you don’t have the time to muck around.

25

Out-of-control behaviour by packs of dogs can also be brought under better management through sterilisation, significantly reducing aggressive nature.

“If you desex them, the dogs are no longer aggressive. They change their behaviour and are no longer having litters, of which they are protective,” Dr Heath explains. “I have been in situations where I have been confronted with a pack of street dogs and it is pretty intimidating.”

The husband-and-wife team, who met while studying vet sciences at the University of Sydney over 20 years ago, are strong advocates for volunteering. They have other expeditions planned for the coming years as well, possibly to Goa on another mass-sterilisation program run by Mission Rabies.

Dr Sander, who also volunteers one day a week at the Australian Animal Protection Society in Keysborough, says it was not just philanthropic reasons that resulted in their first volunteering adventure in 2011. It was inspired by a long-held love of India.

“It just started out as a love for the country and wanting to see it in a new way, through different eyes,” she explains. “We also wanted to do something for India and working alongside the people is the best way to really get to know them.”

But a voluntary working situation is a far cry from being on holiday, as the couple discovered. The biggest issue to deal with when they arrived was the culture shock of working in an environment a world away from a typical Australia clinic.

Aside from language differences

with the local vets, there was almost no high-tech modern equipment, little chance of air-conditioning and some of the examination spaces were in tents or out in the open.

The recent Mission Rabies trip provided a contrast of experiences. On some days, they worked in a state-of-the-art, specially outfitted surgical bus, while on other occasions, they were operating in converted office spaces.

“I am sure some people would walk in, take one look at the very basic conditions and say, ‘What are you doing trying to work here?’” Dr Sander says. “We had to learn to do it, and so you take a big breath and remember you can do your best work in a sterile environment. If anything, it reminds you of all the basic lessons you learnt in training, and you find you go back there as a way to making it work.”

One example of best practice put into action is in the way dogs are sutured. As these street dogs will not be brought back in to have the sutures checked, Dr Heath explains the onus is on the vets to get it right the first time.

“We were working with a local doctor, Dr Aswin, who was so tough on the quality of work and set a very high standard,” he says. “And by doing so, the students were getting it right, so there was a minimal chance of future infection.

“By the end of the two weeks, the work these students were doing was far

You simply have to do everything better as you don’t have all the bells and whistles to fall back on.”

The trip last December was Drs Heath and Sander’s fourth volunteering mission to India. This time, they were working with Mission Rabies, focusing on the rampant health problem of rabies, where it’s estimated one person in India dies every hour from the condition, and an infected dog bites a person every two minutes.

Wide-scale vaccinating programs are being implemented with the aim to eradicate the virus from India’s dog population. Volunteer vets from around the world work with local vets to implement the programs, but also act as teachers to help establish best practice procedures.

A national sterilisation initiative is also underway across India to address the problem of street dogs, with the aim of stabilising dog populations.

“The local vets we worked with were very good. They are competent and know what they are doing, but they are really keen to learn better ways of operating,” Dr Sander says.

“You have to know they will be watching you and following your lead. But if you can manage to stay calm and give an air of confidence and competence, you really are halfway there.”

In Bylakuppe, where Drs Heath and Sander were based on the trips from 2011-13, there has not been a human rabies case since the program started. It is also estimated that when 70 per cent of the dog population is vaccinated, rabies can be eliminated.

The Mission Rabies truck has a full operating theatre and performs

as a lecture theatre. Dr Lisa Sanders (right) conducts the MR lecture on anaesthetics. Bottom

right: Drs Sander and Michael Heath with the Mission Rabies

surgery course participants, Dr Megna, Dr Annapurna and

friends off the street.

26

C O V E R S T O R Y

Drs Michael Heath and Lisa Sander with supplies they are sending to India.

better than some of the suturing I see qualified vets doing back here. And the standard I expect now is much higher too because of that. It is about doing the job properly,”

An important insight of the trip that actually proved to be something of a relief was the discovery that as Bylakuppe is in a Buddhist area, it is also a no-kill area. The euthanising of animals is discouraged as a treatment.

Initially, Dr Heath says he was certain he would have difficulty operating under such conditions, but the reality provided him with a very different reaction.

“I actually returned home feeling very refreshed as I had not euthanised one animal in three weeks,” he explains. “It takes a toll, and not having the option to do that for weeks proved to be a breath of fresh air. I didn’t realise how much it was impacting on me until I stopped it.”

Returning home to Melbourne and to his own clinic, as well as a very different population of animals and clients, was the reality check he needed that different cultures operate in different ways.

“You do need to be clear about what you do, and need to have two approaches to your work,” he says. “There is a way of doing things in that culture and in our culture, and they both are valid. As

i PA D

Our iPad edition of this article features more incredible images. Search for Vet Practice Magazine in the App store.

always, it is about applying best practice for wherever it is you find yourself.”

Both Drs Heath and Sander remain passionate advocates for volunteering. At the moment, they are currently in close contact with two of the practice’s staff members, vet Dr Farlie Lewis and senior vet nurse Nicole Patterson (with their partners), who are in Nepal, trying to help after the devastating earthquake on April 25. “At present, the focus is on public health of which the team has skills specifically with rabies control,” says Dr Heath.

Despite the team’s dedication to the causes, Drs Heath and Sander suggest graduate vets should wait until they have a few years of clinical experience under

their belt before venturing into volunteering.

“Nothing is the same as what you know back at home, so you need to volunteer with the ‘Four P rule’: preparation, politeness, perseverance and patience. If any are a problem, you need to consider if this is for you.”

Adds Dr Heath, “There are many anxieties with this, as anything can go pear-shaped. You need to know you can work with

basic conditions and yet still do good work. There are no corners cut and we work with good sterilisation techniques and regimes. The standard of the work is excellent, but it can be tough getting it there. I’ve operated in a tent with people watching. I’ve operated as 20 school kids got off a bus to have a look. I’ve operated as a camera filmed the procedure. With all of that, you have to know your skills so well that you can cope.”

When the going gets tough, Drs Heath and Sander say, the best of intentions will not cut it. And the experience comes at more than an emotional cost that needs to be factored in.

“Airfares start at about $1000 return and a working visa is about $400, and you might need to take some equipment with you, so you need some resources behind you to do this and not expect everything to be covered as it won’t be,” says Dr Heath. “But I also believe if you are prepared to go with the right frame of mind and have done the homework, you’ll get so much out of it. You work many hours, but you quickly discover you don’t waste one of them.”

MAY 2015 $6.95 GST INCL.

PRACTICE

Discover Drs Michael Heath and Lisa Sander’s generous spirit and their desire to eradicate rabies, page 24

SPECIAL REPORTOur guide to the 2015 Pan Pacific

conference, page 31

Indian chiefs

How to negotiate fair wages, page 18

21st-century petsWhat you can do to slow the obesity epidemic, page 14

Net benefitsWhy you should consider conducting consultations over the internet, page 21

What are you worth?

Dr Aswin (below) demonstrates surgery techniques to the participants of the

Mission Rabies surgical training course while Dr Lisa Sander performs the

Propofol IV top-up anaesthetic.

The dog catching team caught and vaccinated 2500 dogs in two weeks and delivered undesexed street dogs for the surgery teams on which to operate.

GUARANTEED*

NEW

* Feline Idiopathic Cystitis (FIC) is a major cause of FLUTD1

Introducing the first clinically tested nutrition for FIC with ingredients to help control stressNutrition clinically tested to:

• Reduce the recurrence of FIC signs by 89%2

• Dissolve struvite stones in as little as 7 days (average 28)3

www.myhillsvet.com.au

1. Lekcharoensuk C, Osborne CA, Lulich JP. Epidemiologic study of risk factors for lower urinary tract diseases in cats. JAVMA 2001; 218:1429-1435; 2. Kruger JM, Lulich JP, Merrills J, et al. A year-long prospective, randomized, double-masked study of nutrition on feline idiopathic cystitis. Proceedings. ACVIM Forum 2013; 3. Lulich JP, Kruger JM, MacLeay JM, et al. Struvite urolith dissolution in cats: A doublemasked randomized clinical trial of two foods. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2013. TM Trademarks owned by Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Inc. © 2015 Hill’s Pet Nutrition Pty Ltd. HIMA-HB-151A4C66. HPA2380. 03/15. GHG.

c/d™ Urinary Stress

Ask your territory manager about

NEW Hill’s Prescription Diet™

No. 1 Brand Recommended by Australian Vets

Break the cycle with Hill’s c/d™ Multicare Urinary Stress

Come de-stress at the Hill’s Chill Out Lounge at

PANPAC

Y O U R B U S I N E S S

28

Vets in motionThe chance to break away from a stationary clinic and go mobile is, for some vets, a compelling business opportunity. Nicole Szollos scopes the considerations before starting out on the adventure

THE WORLD IS INCREASINGLY becoming mobile and so too are vets. As consumers demand more convenience, pet care also ranks highly. Vets are recognising this need and answering the call.

Scan the websites of mobile vets in Australia and many reference convenience as the main selling point. The typical client for a mobile vet, according to Dr Ben Ajilian from Vet on the Run, either works full time, has geriatric animals who can’t travel, are elderly themselves or do not drive. He set up his mobile vet business a year ago to service the Sydney suburb of Rhodes and surrounds after identifying demand from the volume of residential units in the area and lots of companion animals. His clients mostly call for routine

medical issues, vaccinations and minor treatments, and he offers weekends and after-hours appointments.

“There’s a good market for it in this area. People find it helpful to have the vet come to them. There are lots of people looking for mobile services,” Dr Ajilian says.

Client demand is also what led Dr Adam Stefani from Mornington Veterinary Clinic to set up a mobile vet offering alongside his Melbourne-based practice.

“Speaking to clients at the clinic, many said they had trouble getting there for various reasons. We had always offered home visits; we would use our personal cars. Then about five years ago, we bought the van and set up the mobile vet service,” he says.

29

Vets in motion

Vet is well acquainted with life on the road. After spending the first half of his career as a rural vet, when the time came to establish his own business, he says “the concept of being stuck in a building didn’t appeal”. And with experience working in emergency services, Dr Boling was used to working on his own and driving, and comfortable with working in a non-clinic environment. He says experience and confidence are two essential attributes to being a mobile vet.

“If you didn’t have a solid base of experience, it would be intimidating doing everything yourself and not having a nurse to help. You also need to feel comfortable going into people’s houses in different

and difficult circumstances; one of the most intimidating things is

doing a euthanasia in the home and you need to have the

experience and confidence to do it well,” he says.

Dr Ajilian has been practising as a vet since graduating in 2003, and in his first year as a mobile vet he has reached the

same conclusion.“It’s not always easy

going into people’s homes. You have to show that you

are skilled and confident. Communication skills are also

very important; you are in their environment and the way you present yourself is key. You have to make them trust you,” he says.

In addition to soft skills, various administrative tasks are part of setting up a mobile vet business, such as registering a company name and taking out insurance. Advertising and marketing are other essentials. For Dr Boling, marketing has been the biggest challenge over the years. He says Yellow Pages advertising worked well in the past and with the move to Google, he has invested in his company website to maximise rankings. Despite these marketing efforts he says most business has come from other avenues.

“A lot of business is generated by word of mouth, or the van itself. The van is covered with advertising magnets that

people take at the traffic lights or when it is parked. I also get referrals now from other vet clinics,” he says.

Dr Ajilian also covered the basics to market his business—Google advertising, company website and vehicle branding—and given the high concentration of residential apartments in his target area he did a letterbox drop of promotional flyers. The exercise proved beneficial; tracking return on investment, he has found the majority of new customers have come through this activity or the website.

Perhaps the number-one requirement for a mobile vet is their vehicle. The type and size depends on the services being provided and while the full-scale mobile surgery hasn’t been big in Australia yet, the option exists.

Rod Mackay, design manager at Oxford EME and EasyVet, part of the K Care Group, has been involved in, and now leads, the design of the EasyVet range of mobile vet clinics—the Animal Transport Unit, Animal Care Unit and Animal Hospital Unit.

“The stimulus for our move into veterinary vehicles was the RSPCA coming to us enquiring about suitably equipped vans during the tragic bushfires in Victoria in 2009. The vets were operating on koalas on picnic tables,” he says.

The EasyVet mobile vet clinics are designed and manufactured to order and based on a custom fit-out with specific modifications depending on requirements.

“The fit-out, customisation and size of the vehicle will depend upon the vet’s needs. If it is intended to be a surgery, they need to have an operating table, equipment, an animal recovery space, storage for medication and supplies, and a computer dock for record keeping and files,” Mackay explains.

Tony Nelson is the senior sales executive of Byron Group’s Emergency Services Unit, which manufacturers ambulances and patient transport vehicles. He says while there hasn’t been a great deal of calls from vets for mobile veterinary clinics, the company has worked with the RSPCA in NSW and the ACT to create customised transport vehicles with various cages, and one included an examination table. Nelson says there are standard steps to

The majority of Dr Stefani’s mobile business is treating animals belonging to elderly clients and about a third of all call-outs are for euthanasia. He says introducing the mobile service was a seamless integration, but the biggest change was factoring booking home visit appointments among clinic patients. Meanwhile, fitting in emergency cases is an ongoing challenge.

“We are a small, two-vet practice and we’re quite busy. If we get an urgent case that is a home visit, it can be challenging because if the day is already booked, it is difficult to rush off to an urgent consult,” he says.

With 15 years under his belt as a mobile vet, Dr Brett Boling from Adelaide Mobile

“People find it helpful to have the vet come to them. There are lots of people looking for mobile services.”Dr Ben Ajilian, Vet on the Run

Have You Gone Mobile yet?

Australia 1800 811 546 New Zealand 09 489 2280 Singapore 3159 0599 International +64 9 489 2280 Email sales@cfl.co.nz

VetlinkSQL Mobile Take your phone/tablet out on location with sync’d data and make bills, write clinical notes, take photos and add new clients/patients on the go. No internet connection required in the field. A true App.

VetlinkSQL e-Forms Go paperless with VetlinkSQL electronic forms. Let clients view and update their details and obtain signatures on tablets, which automatically updates Document Manager.

For you

For your staff

My Vet App This branded App, fully integrated to VetlinkSQL, gives your clients access to your clinic at the touch of their fingertips. Clients can check & request update of their details, review & book appointments online, pop automatic reminder notifications and receive content exclusive to your clinic with special events, online blogs, lost pets, maps of local dog parks and much more..

For your clients

VetlinkSQL is a modern Veterinary Practice Management Software designed using the very latest tools, providing one of the most powerful and flexible packages available on the market today. VetlinkSQL is a comprehensive software solution for the management of veterinary clinics. It has been carefully designed with a feature set that caters for businesses ranging from those with only a few staff members at a single location to large multi-branch operations that run all their branches online.

Now

Soon

Soon

create a custom-built mobile clinic and a prerequisite is to fully understand the client’s requirements.

“We sit down with the client, talk to them about their requirements and what they are trying to achieve. Then we’ll make suggestions and modifications. We have a team of design engineers who create the 3D design concepts on the computer to determine the space and the interiors—we need to check that it works virtually first. Once we have sign-off from the client on the design, we then proceed with the build,” he explains.

The alternative approach is to purchase a standard vehicle and customise to suit. Dr Boling’s Adelaide Mobile Vet van has a rack for medication built into the space behind the passenger sliding door so that medication can be accessed from outside, which he says works well. The van also has a fridge for storing medication and includes moulded plastic inserts in the back for transporting animals. Dr Stefani’s vet van includes an animal cage, bedding and rubber matting for transportation. Mobile vets also carry a full medical kit with all the essentials for home visits.

Operating a one-person mobile vet business requires a big commitment to customers, and time management is an important consideration. “You have to get involved in all aspects of the business

Y O U R B U S I N E S S

—paperwork, reminders, call-backs with lab results, etc. There is a lot of follow-up required,” says Dr Ajilian.

Dr Boling took a different approach and hired a business manager from the outset to manage the bookings and clerical duties.

“The biggest mistake vets make is they try to be business managers instead of being vets,” he says. “My business manager is very efficient at booking my time—it’s been key to the business. If you’re going to run a mobile vet service properly, you do the vet stuff and someone else manages your time.”

Maximising time on the road treating patients makes good business sense. Although customers can be charged a premium for the convenience, mobile vets must be well organised with their time. For example, Dr Boling’s service covers most of Adelaide but he rarely travels more than 10 minutes between appointments, meaning he can see two patients an hour continuously. His current record is 23 in one long day. Not surprisingly, Dr Boling’s final advice to would-be mobile vets is “have a very understanding wife or husband!”

A mobile vet business appeals to many clients.

Looking forward to seeing you at Pan Pac Stand

Number 31

PRACTICE

P R O D U C T G U I D E

Vet Practice’s guide to the 2015 Pan Pacific Veterinary Conference

Every five years, the Australian Veterinary Association and New Zealand Veterinary Association present the

largest and most comprehensive conference program.

31

RUNNING OVER FOUR DAYS IN LATE May in Brisbane, the mix of clinical, technical and practice management content on offer at the Pan Pacific Veterinary Conference is second to none.

According to Dr Julia Nicholls (AVA President) with Dr Steve Merchant (NZVA President), “There is no theme this year except for the expectation that we shall share hot topics, strategy, solutions and camaraderie. It is remarkable, although perhaps unsurprising, that we have so much in common and coming together to share experiences and learning is a unique opportunity.

“The joint scientific committee has put together a stimulating program leaving delegates with some tough decisions about which stream to attend. Update your skills and learn some new ones; get involved in debates about the future of the profession and challenge your respective association to deliver what you want. Mark the NZVA-AVA members forum as a must-attend event as well as enjoy arguably the best line-up of plenary speakers ever.”

Some of the speakers on the program this year include: n PROFESSOR DAVID E ANDERSON,

Professor and Head of Large Animal Clinical Sciences at the University of Tennessee’s College of Veterinary Medicine, offering (among other things) updates on intestinal diseases and surgical management and optimising outcomes, as well as chemical restraint and anaesthesia in field settings.

n KELLY BALTZELL, President and CEO of the Beyond Indigo family of companies, talking about internet marketing.

n DR DANIEL L CHAN, from the Royal Veterinary College in London in 2005, where he is Senior Lecturer and Head of Section in Emergency and Critical Care, talking about raw food diets; feeding the critically ill patient; challenges in fluid therapy, and more.

n ASSISTANT PROFESSOR MEGHAN HERRON, from the Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences and current Head of the Behavioral Medicine Clinic at Ohio State University Veterinary Medical Center, talking about training methods, inter-pet aggression, separation anxiety, inappropriate elimination, fears, phobias, compulsive behaviours and cognitive dysfunction.

n PROFESSOR JOSH SLATER, from the Royal Veterinary College in London, where he is Professor of equine clinical studies, talking about ophthalmology, practical biosecurity planning for horse farms, equine rescue and emergencies, and more.

n DR MICHELLE TILGHMAN on complementary modalities, using Western education coupled with a knowledge of Eastern medicine.

To find out more about the program, go online to conference.ava.com.au.

A D V E R T O R I A L

PAN PAC 2015 Product guide

32

Zoetis, a leader in animal health research, has uncovered a new therapeutic approach to the long-standing problem of pruritus in your canine patients. We’d love to tell you more.

There’s something about canine itch One in four Australian canines suffer from pruritus: seasonal, chronic and acute.1 Canine pruritus is commonly triggered by allergies due to fleas, particles in the environment such as dust mites, and foods. One type of allergic disease is atopic dermatitis, which can look very similar to other allergic conditions, making the diagnosis challenging for the veterinarian.

By the time an itchy dog is presented

to the vet, their owner is often desperate for a treatment that’s fast, safe, and offers symptom relief. However, current treatments may be associated with short-term and long-term side effects or slow onset of action, so pet owners often feel like they end up trading one problem for another.

Cytokines and jak enzymes: the real culprits2,3 Historically, allergic skin disease was thought to be a type 1 hypersensitivity reaction mediated by cutaneous mast cells and IgE. However, thanks to novel discoveries led by Zoetis researchers, we now know that certain cytokines produced by lymphocytes and other

cells contribute to canine itch.

The frustration ends hereZoetis has developed a novel therapeutic approach to provide fast, safe and effective control of itching and inflammation associated with allergic dermatitis. The new therapy targets JAK-1 and decreases the activity of cytokines that cause itching and inflammation, rapidly stopping the continuous itch cycle without the side effects seen with current therapies. This also gives vets the time to diagnose the underlying cause of the itch, while allowing the dog’s skin to heal, improving the quality of life for the dogs and their owners.

Want to learn more about jak? Zoetis is offering a limited number of ‘lunch and learn’ sessions nationwide from 7th April to 30th June, hosted in your clinic. These 45-min interactive sessions are open to all veterinary clinic staff for a limited time only. During these sessions, you and your colleagues will hear Zoetis subject experts explain the latest research behind JAK pathways and find out how the new therapeutic approach may benefit your canine patients. Please note sessions are limited based on proximity to east coast capital cities. Webinar and satellite meetings will also be available for regional areas.

Get the facts on JAK:Register for your own ‘Lunch and Learn’ in-clinic session at website www.apoquel.gettimely.com

A breakthrough we’re itching to share with you

1. Australian Market Research, Zoetis Data on File, 2012 and 2014. 2. Tizard IR. Veterinary immunology, an introduction. 8th ed. St. Louis, MO. Saunders Elsevier, 2009.3. Abbas AK, Lichtman AH, Pillai S. Cellular and molecular immunology. 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA. Saunders Elsevier, 2010.

Zoetis Australia Pty Ltd. Level 6, 5 Rider Boulevard, Rhodes NSW 2138. © 2015 Zoetis Inc. All rights reserved. Mar 15. ZOEAPO1086

Historically, allergic skin disease was thought to be a type 1 hypersensitivity reaction mediated by cutaneous mast cells and IgE. However, thanks to novel discoveries led by Zoetis researchers, we now know that inhibiting the Janus kinase (JAK) intracellular pathway is the key to rapidly stopping the continuous itch cycle, without the side effects seen with current therapies.

WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT JAK AND THE NEW SCIENCE BEHIND CANINE ITCH?Zoetis technical vets will be available from 7 April to 30 June to visit your clinic for a personalised ‘lunch and learn’ session where you’ll learn about Apoquel (oclacitinib), a new therapeutic approach that may benefit your canine patients.

There is a new way of getting fast and safe symptom relief for your canine patients struggling with acute, seasonal and chronic pruritus.

GET THE FACTS ON JAKRegister for your

own ‘Lunch and Learn’ in-clinic session at

www.apoquel.gettimely.com

ITCHING

A BREAKTHROUGH WE’RE TO SHARE WITH YOU.

A D V E R T O R I A L

PAN PAC 2015 Product guide

34

As the ultimate veterinary professional aid in the science of hydrotherapy, the canine HYDRO PHYSIO underwater treadmill series has been designed with continuous veterinary input. A ‘no compromise’ approach, coupled with many unique features, has made these canine water walkers the market leader and the first choice for veterinary surgeries and rehabilitation facilities worldwide.

• Twin doors open either end - designed specifically to aid patient confidence and comfort

• 360 degree viewing - allows patient analysis and patient confidence within the treadmill

• Side platforms - allow therapists to work directly with the patient and support them in the water

• Temperature, speed, depth and direction control - all can be tailored to each individual patient

• Computer controlled - for ease of use and accuracy of operation

The canine underwater water walker has many applications including: rehabilitation from injury, fitness training, cruciate ligament and TPLO repair, hip dysplasia, osteoarthritis and weightloss.

Features: • Push button or touch screen user

controls with remote • Stride length and water height indicators • Ramp entry with two patented outward

opening doors • Larger treadmills available to suit larger

breeds

Canine water walker market leader

Having a hydrotherapy system allows the vet to offer a complete rehabilitation package to their clients. It improves client retention and satisfaction while adding an additional revenue stream to the practice.

Whats in the box? The Canine HYDRO PHYSIO Underwater treadmill package includes: treadmill, storage tank, plant pack, starter pack, computer control panel, remote control, delivery and installation (Australia only) For more details, or to discuss your requirements, please contact DLC Australia Pty Ltd on 1300 785 405

Contact details:Southern OfficePO Box 4438,17-19 Horne StHoppers Crossing VIC, 3029Phone: 03 9360 9700Fax: 03 9360 9994Toll Free: 1300 785 405Email: Sales@dlc.com.au

Northern OfficePO Box 833,Unit 6/1 Lear-Jet Dr,Caboolture, QLD 4510Phone: 07 5428 3666Fax: 07 5428 3777Toll Free: 1300 785 401Email: qld@dlc.com.au

Come and visit us

at Pan Pac

Brisbane 2015 at

Stand Number: 72,

73, 74 & 75

» Single hand door opening » Full remote control » Twin doors - walk through » Turn & push handles » Unique easy clean conveyor » Safe, powerful low voltage treadmill » 1800 x 730 x 1260 mm (lwh) » Length including ramps - 2700 mm » 1000 litre water capacity » 330 kgs » Storage tank -

1600 x 730 x 1630 mm (lwh) » Speed range - 0 - 8 kph » Water supply requirements -

cold plus drains

Please Contact Our Office for Further InformationP. 1300 785 405 · E. info@dlc.com.au

www.dlc.com.au

HYDROTHERAPY

C ANINE UNDER WATER HYDROTHER APY TREADMILLS The Original &

the Best HYDRO PHYSIO

Simple Push Button Control

Hydro Physio has a multitude of users, including rehabilitation, wellbeing & training. An ideal environment to utilise the properties of water, offering an extremely effective hydrotherapy setting for patient care & treatment. Exercise in water is proven to be an effective method to gain faster results

The Original & the Best

HYDRO PHYSIO

Hydrotherapy assists in Rehabilitation, Circulation, Balance & Stability, Gait & Posture, Psychological Wellbeing & Pain Management.

Developed at the request of clients, the new control intuitively guides users through the water height & speed settings & is available with cameras.

» Single hand door opening » Full remote control » Twin doors - walk through » Turn & push handles » Unique easy clean conveyor » Safe, powerful low voltage treadmill » 1800 x 730 x 1260 mm (lwh) » Length including ramps - 2700 mm » 1000 litre water capacity » 330 kgs » Storage tank -

1600 x 730 x 1630 mm (lwh) » Speed range - 0 - 8 kph » Water supply requirements -

cold plus drains

Please Contact Our Office for Further InformationP. 1300 785 405 · E. info@dlc.com.au

www.dlc.com.au

HYDROTHERAPY

C ANINE UNDER WATER HYDROTHER APY TREADMILLS The Original &

the Best HYDRO PHYSIO

Simple Push Button Control

Hydro Physio has a multitude of users, including rehabilitation, wellbeing & training. An ideal environment to utilise the properties of water, offering an extremely effective hydrotherapy setting for patient care & treatment. Exercise in water is proven to be an effective method to gain faster results

The Original & the Best

HYDRO PHYSIO

Hydrotherapy assists in Rehabilitation, Circulation, Balance & Stability, Gait & Posture, Psychological Wellbeing & Pain Management.

Developed at the request of clients, the new control intuitively guides users through the water height & speed settings & is available with cameras.

A D V E R T O R I A L

PAN PAC 2015 Product guide

36

Compact FireCR Flash Veterinary Readers combine crystal-clear image quality, speed and affordability.

DLC Australia Pty Ltd is proud to release the NEW FireCR Flash Veterinary Readers.

The compact FireCR Flash Reader product line offers crystal-clear image quality, along with fast scanning speeds and other key features to meet every imaging need.

The new FireCR Flash Readers feature technology advances pioneered by 3DISC imaging that result in the highest possible signal collection efficiency—providing the high image quality facilities need for diagnostic imaging applications.

The FireCR Flash Readers have been specially designed to deliver the exceptional image quality required for diagnostic imaging, while offering aggressive pricing to make the readers affordable for large and small volume veterinary practices.

FireCR Flash Readers also feature a number of design and engineering innovations, in keeping with 3DISC’s mission to provide the latest in advanced imaging technology. They offer increased productivity, with a fast throughput of up to 70 plates per hour. They also are exceptionally small and lightweight, able to be placed on a counter or wall-mounted—ideal for even the most space-challenged radiology department or practice.

FireCR Flash Readers accommodate a range of cassette sizes to meet every imaging need—including a unique veterinary dental cassette accessory kit that allows veterinary practices to scan dental imaging plates using the FireCR Flash Veterinary Reader. The cassettes feature advanced engineering that makes them strong and robust. A specially designed metal plate ‘carries’ the imaging plate through the system, reducing the chance of damage and prolonging the life of valuable imaging plates.

Also new is a convenient USB 2.0/Ethernet interface.

With the FireCR Readers, there is no need for veterinarians to compromise on features and functionality—whether they

Introducing Advanced FireCR Flash Readers are a high-volume but space-challenged clinic, a smaller low volume veterinary clinic with a tight budget but plans to grow, or a busy veterinary clinic or practice. They can select a system that meets their exact needs and budgets—and also have flexibility that lets them grow.”

Introducing the Next generation FireCR Dental ReaderAffordable computed radiography system for veterinary dental —the FireCR Dental Reader—with a number of new features and capabilities that enhance veterinary practice productivity.

Designed to provide rapid, high-quality reading of reusable dental imaging plates, the FireCR Dental Reader’s small footprint—about the size of a shoebox—allows it to integrate seamlessly into even the most space-challenged veterinary clinics.

The small size and unique features of the FireCR Dental Reader mean that it can be conveniently placed in each exam room, allowing for faster diagnosis and streamlined patient care as there is no wait time required to leave the room to scan images on a centralised scanner.

Contact details:Southern OfficePO Box 4438,17-19 Horne StHoppers Crossing VIC, 3029Phone: 03 9360 9700Fax: 03 9360 9994Toll Free: 1300 785 405Email: Sales@dlc.com.au

Northern OfficePO Box 833,Unit 6/1 Lear-Jet Dr,Caboolture, QLD 4510Phone: 07 5428 3666Fax: 07 5428 3777Toll Free: 1300 785 401Email: qld@dlc.com.au

DLC Australia PTY LTD welcomes all attendees to this Years 2015 AVA Pan Pacific Conference.We at DLC Australia have prided ourselves on providing new and innovative products to the veterinary profession since 1976. During the Pan Pacific conference, we will be showcasing a range of products that consist of Digital Xray systems, Monitoring Equipment, Surgical equipment, Underwater Treadmill, Laser Therapy, Caging Systems, Consumable items just to name a few.We will also be offering show specials throughout the week.

Setting up a new clinic or updating equipment?Drop by our stand with your list to discuss your requirements with our experienced friendly staff.

Come see us at stand no’s: 72,73,74 & 75

We look forward to you calling in for a chat with us.

A D V E R T O R I A L

PAN PAC 2015 Product guide

38

iM3 is pleased to launch the new size 5 intra oral (dental) image plate for the CR7 image plate scanner. With the new size 5 plate you can achieve a full mouth series in a medium to large dog with just six x-rays! Visit the iM3 stand to receive your free copy of Size Matters – Dental x-ray positioning guide developed by iM3.

Compared to other veterinary dental scanners, the CR7 Vet provides unsurpassed high-resolution images, fast processing times, user friendly software and the largest range of reusable flexible plate sizes for dental and small animal extremity applications. Hand held compliant x-ray generators and the latest technology Revolution 4DC dental x-ray will be on display.

iM3 dental instruments are made from French and Japanese stainless steel

and feature a lifetime warranty against faulty material or workmanship. Our high quality yet affordable instrument can be found throughout the world with several thousand sold annually. Each instrument is specifically designed for veterinary use and often species specific. Our unique designs are developed with the help of leading dental vets and thoroughly tested throughout the year in iM3 sponsored dental workshops. The complete range of iM3 instruments will be on display coupled with special conference pricing.

Don’t forget to visit us at Stand 80 and 83 at PAN PAC 2015 to see our latest products at competitive prices.

iM3 – Ten years at the AVA PAN PAC’s and going strong

NEW from iM3, Dental X-Ray Positioning Guide – Free insert in this Issue of Vet Practice.As veterinary dentistry becomes a greater part of small animal practice, dental x-rays will become a standard of care.

The goal in your practice should be to take a full mouth series for each dental patient. What is required is a simple, fast and cost effective method for taking dental x-ray that reduces the challenge of the bisecting angle technique.

In this issue of Vet practice iM3 has included Size Matters – Dental X-ray positioning guide, a document that demonstrates how to take a full mouth series on a medium to large dog in under 5 minutes with just 6 x-rays! With this new technique there are only two angles you need to remember, 45° and 55°. It is that simple!

The Veterinary Dental Company

iM3 Pty Ltd THE VETERINARY DENTAL COMPANY Sydney, Australiap +61 2 9420 5766 f +61 2 9420 5677e sales@im3vet.com www.im3vet.com

Dental Consumables and Healthymouth

Dental Hand Instruments

Ultrasonic Scalers and Dental units

– The Veterinary Dental Company

Established over 27 years ago, iM3 is the market leading veterinary dental company located in Australia, USA and Ireland. Our aim is to raise the level of education of general practitioners in veterinary dentistry through hands on dental workshops, educational DVDs and printed material.

We encourage vets (or their sta� ) to spend time looking at the oral cavity during annual check-ups. iM3 is proud to be manufacturing and servicing our range of dental machines at our three locations and o� ering a high standard of knowledge and after sales customer support. Contact iM3 Today.

Dental and Full Body X-Ray

The Veterinary Dental Company

iM3 Pty Ltd THE VETERINARY DENTAL COMPANY Sydney, Australiap +61 2 9420 5766 f +61 2 9420 5677e sales@im3vet.com www.im3vet.com

Dental Consumables and Healthymouth

Dental Hand Instruments

Ultrasonic Scalers and Dental units

– The Veterinary Dental Company

Established over 27 years ago, iM3 is the market leading veterinary dental company located in Australia, USA and Ireland. Our aim is to raise the level of education of general practitioners in veterinary dentistry through hands on dental workshops, educational DVDs and printed material.

We encourage vets (or their sta� ) to spend time looking at the oral cavity during annual check-ups. iM3 is proud to be manufacturing and servicing our range of dental machines at our three locations and o� ering a high standard of knowledge and after sales customer support. Contact iM3 Today.

Dental and Full Body X-Ray

T h e V e t e r i n a r y D e n t a l C o m p a n y

iM3 Pty Ltd THE VETERINARY DENTAL COMPANY Sydney, Australiap +61 2 9420 5766 f +61 2 9420 5677e sales@im3vet.com www.im3vet.com

Dental Consumables and Healthymouth

Dental Hand Instruments

Ultrasonic Scalers and Dental units

– The Veterinary Dental Company

Established over 27 years ago, iM3 is the market leading veterinary dental company located in Australia, USA and Ireland. Our aim is to raise the level of education of general practitioners in veterinary dentistry through hands on dental workshops, educational DVDs and printed material.

We encourage vets (or their sta� ) to spend time looking at the oral cavity during annual check-ups. iM3 is proud to be manufacturing and servicing our range of dental machines at our three locations and o� ering a high standard of knowledge and after sales customer support. Contact iM3 Today.

Dental and Full Body X-Ray

T h e V e t e r i n a r y D e n t a l C o m p a n y

iM3 Pty Ltd THE VETERINARY DENTAL COMPANY Sydney, Australiap +61 2 9420 5766 f +61 2 9420 5677e sales@im3vet.com www.im3vet.com

Dental Consumables and Healthymouth

Dental Hand Instruments

Ultrasonic Scalers and Dental units

– The Veterinary Dental Company

Established over 27 years ago, iM3 is the market leading veterinary dental company located in Australia, USA and Ireland. Our aim is to raise the level of education of general practitioners in veterinary dentistry through hands on dental workshops, educational DVDs and printed material.

We encourage vets (or their sta� ) to spend time looking at the oral cavity during annual check-ups. iM3 is proud to be manufacturing and servicing our range of dental machines at our three locations and o� ering a high standard of knowledge and after sales customer support. Contact iM3 Today.

Dental and Full Body X-Ray

The Veterinary Dental Company

iM3 Pty Ltd THE VETERINARY DENTAL COMPANY Sydney, Australiap +61 2 9420 5766 f +61 2 9420 5677e sales@im3vet.com www.im3vet.com

Dental Consumables and Healthymouth

Dental Hand Instruments

Ultrasonic Scalers and Dental units

– The Veterinary Dental Company

Established over 27 years ago, iM3 is the market leading veterinary dental company located in Australia, USA and Ireland. Our aim is to raise the level of education of general practitioners in veterinary dentistry through hands on dental workshops, educational DVDs and printed material.

We encourage vets (or their sta� ) to spend time looking at the oral cavity during annual check-ups. iM3 is proud to be manufacturing and servicing our range of dental machines at our three locations and o� ering a high standard of knowledge and after sales customer support. Contact iM3 Today.

Dental and Full Body X-Ray

A D V E R T O R I A L

PAN PAC 2015 Product guide

40

“In my previous life as a practice owner and in my current role meeting with practice owners every day, I find a common thread. We were all wanting to have an in-house lab solution that was reliable, accurate, easy to use and inexpensive to run. At the same time we also wanted the backing of an independent veterinary pathology lab. Enter REM SYSTEMS and Specialist Veterinary Services group (SVS). The ABAXIS VS2 biochemistry machine is a self-calibrating, almost maintenance free analyser that has a very small footprint. The ABAXIS VS2 is also very

easy to use, even the vets can run a test without any problem, plus another big plus is the very small sample size of 100 microliter. The same goes for the ABAXIS HM5, a very easy to use haematology analyser that gives you an extremely accurate full CBC. The staff really like both machines.

The main tipping point for many of my colleagues was the package offered through ASAP and other SVS pathology laboratories which

mean we offset the cost of the in house machines through the work that goes to the reference lab. We also have the added security of knowing we have the

highly regarded support of pathologists and service team. It all runs smoothly and any issues can be addressed swiftly, they will even run the tests for us, at cost, if anything will ever go wrong with our instruments, so we are covered for any down time with their 24h return to function guarantee.

Anyone looking at in-house pathology machines should be talking to SVS and REM SYSTEMS.”

(SVS laboratories include: ASAP, VETPATH, Vetnostics, QML Vetnostics & TML Vetnostics)

For further information contact 1800 737 222.

The premier pathology package

Don’t Forget to visit us at the PAN PAC Conference in Brisbane, Stands 42 & 45

Dr Noam Pik BVSc, BMVS, MBA, MACVSState Manager, ASAP Laboratory Pty Ltd

VetScan VS2 VetScan HM5

The Premier Pathology Package

The ultimate package brought to you by REM Systems and Specialist Veterinary Services Benefits could include:✔ Considerable rebates based on your external

pathology lab spend to offset the instrument cost ✔ Free internal medicine support ✔ Free installation and training ✔ Integrated with most practice software ✔ Unbeatable economy and quality

Please contact your local REM Systems representative or your local SVS BU for further details

Come and see us at stand 42 and 45 to learn more about this exciting opportunity.

Ask us how you could win a VetScan VS2!

A D V E R T O R I A L

PAN PAC 2015 Product guide

42

Provet Animal Health Practice Solutions is due to launch intelligent client communication solution, Rapport, at the Pan Pacific Veterinary Conference. Rapport is a full featured cloud-based system developed by the Global Animal Health Practice Solutions division of veterinary Industry heavyweight Henry Schein.

Rapport enables clients to communicate with your practice in the manner, and at the time, that best suits them, making it easy, fast, effective and convenient.

“In today’s digital world the two biggest challenges facing veterinarians are staff efficiency and increasing patient visits. Rapport addresses both of these challenges by making client communication easier, more flexible and efficient, while increasing effectiveness,” said Cathy May, General Manager of Provet Animal Health Practice Solutions. “Rapport uses technology in new and modern ways that help to strengthen and improve the relationship between the veterinary practice and the customer as well as positioning the practice as a trusted and essential source of information.”

Rapport offers four primary components: online appointment scheduling, multimedia reminders, veterinary practice websites and an online patient portal.

Online appointment scheduling allows pet owners to book appointments from their veterinarian’s website and receive automated email or text confirmations. The appointment calendar within the practice management software is then updated and the practice is notified of activity. Veterinarians can view and modify the

calendar on-line via mobile devices.Multimedia reminders enable veterinary

practices to communicate with their clients via email, text messages, automated voice calls, and direct mail, tailored to their clients’ preferences. These timely, personalised, and automated client reminders and notices result in increased patient visits and fewer missed appointments. Since client interactions and responses automatically update the practice’s software, Rapport frees up staff members to focus on other tasks.

Rapport’s veterinary practice websites offer several features that increase engagement with clients. Patient Portals give pet owners online access to their pet’s vaccine information, medications, upcoming reminders, and other pet health information. Professional online client education materials enhance the practice image, build trust and promote veterinarians as a preferred source of pet health information. While search engine optimisation and reputation management tools maximise exposure on the Internet.

The aspect that makes this latest very polished offering from Provet AHPS and Henry Schein stand out the most, is its complete integration with the practice

management system (VisionVPM). This uniquely gives Rapport the ability to dramatically improve staff and system effectiveness and efficiency. The most obvious example of this is when using the online booking tool. The tool can instantly display available appointment times taken from the PMS Appointment book, fill out bookings and customer records, all without staff assistance. If desired the customer can then be sent an instant fully automated confirmation and/or further reminders at various intervals.

To find out more about Rapport, visit Provet Animal Health Practice Solutions (Stand 56) at the 2015 AVA Pan Pacific Veterinary Conference in Brisbane or go to www.hsrapport.com

Learn about Rapport and get a chance to win a Microsoft Surface Pro 3 at PAN PAC 2015 To enter simply book and attend a time to learn about Rapport online

at www.rapport.setmore.com

Communication solution increases practice efficiency, improves patient care and boosts the flow of patients to the practice.

A D V E R T O R I A L

PAN PAC 2015 Product guide

VETQUIP IS A VETERINARY distributor who specialises in supplying customers with an extensive range of veterinary products, including anaesthesia, monitoring, lighting, orthopaedic equipment and more.

With a comprehensive line of products, from a range of leading manufacturers, it is no wonder that veterinarians trust VetQuip for the very best products and equipment for their veterinary practice.

If you are looking for a speciality item, or a difficult to find product, let one of Vetquip’s skilled staff members help you find what you are looking for. VetQuip’s friendly staff can help if you are interested in learning more about the products they

have on offer.The high calibre of technical expertise

and prompt service provided by Vetquip, ensures Vetquip’s equipment is used in leading medical institutions and veterinary centres worldwide.

Vetquip is the largest veterinary equipment repair organisation in Australia, specialising in equipment repairs for both veterinarians and wholesalers.

Utilising the G.A.S. network enables Vetquip to offer complete sales and servicing for an extensive range of vaporiser manufacturers. Leak testing and recalibration services are available for all vaporiser models.

Vetquip’s vaporiser service includes a

Leaders in veterinary equipment repairsOffering experienced biomedical technicians

For more information on the VetQuip autoclave range visit www.vetquip.com.au or call 1300 888 427

Fast and easy use for efficient instrument processing

Reliability and effectiveness for infection control assurance

AUTOCLAVE RANGE

Midmark VetAssure B23

Midmark VetAssure B60

NEW Midmark VetAssure B23 & B60

Midmark VetAssure B60

Midmark VetAssure B23

The new B60 from Midmark is the ideal large capacity autoclave for busy clinics with heavy work loads.

Massive 60 litre chamber

The new B23 from Midmark will maximise throughput and efficiency for your clinic.

Large 23 litre chamber

Midmark M11 UltraClave® Automatic SteriliserLet the Midmark M11 UltraClave® do the work for you. Simply load it, set it and forget it.

Large 24.6 litre chamber

Midmark M11 UltraClave® Automatic Steriliser

For the latest in veterinary equipment and daily specials at PAN PAC 2015, visit us

at stands 24 and 25

For more information on the VetQuip monitor range visit www.vetquip.com.au or call 1300 888 427

Features:

4.3” Touch screen display

Veterinary specific operating system software

Nellcor OXIMax SP02

NIBP

Features:

10.4” Touch screen display

Veterinary specific operating system software

Nellcor OXIMax SP02

5 lead ECG

Dual temperature

NIBP

Features:

12.1” Touch screen display

Veterinary specific operating system software

Nellcor OXIMax SP02

2 channels of Invasive blood pressure

5 lead ECG

Dual temperature

NIBP

Optional:

5 lead ECG

Dual temperature

Resperonics ETC02 add anytime (software and plug)

Arrhythmia and S-T segment analysis

Lithium Ion 4hr back up battery

Resperonics ETC02 add anytime (software and plug)

Thermal printer

Interfaces: SD card, USB, VGA

Standard display and big font display options

Arrhythmia and S-T segment analysis

Lithium Ion 4hr back up battery

Resperonics ETC02 add anytime (software and plug)

Thermal printer

9 waveform display, trends

Standard display and big font display options

Interfaces: SD card, USB, VGA

Optional: Anaesthesia gas module

VetQuip C30V

VetQuip C50V

VetQuip C80V

MONITOR RANGE Designed & built for veterinarians

For more information on the VetQuip autoclave range visit www.vetquip.com.au or call 1300 888 427

Fast and easy use for efficient instrument processing

Reliability and effectiveness for infection control assurance

AUTOCLAVE RANGE

Midmark VetAssure B23

Midmark VetAssure B60

NEW Midmark VetAssure B23 & B60

Midmark VetAssure B60

Midmark VetAssure B23

The new B60 from Midmark is the ideal large capacity autoclave for busy clinics with heavy work loads.

Massive 60 litre chamber

The new B23 from Midmark will maximise throughput and efficiency for your clinic.

Large 23 litre chamber

Midmark M11 UltraClave® Automatic SteriliserLet the Midmark M11 UltraClave® do the work for you. Simply load it, set it and forget it.

Large 24.6 litre chamber

Midmark M11 UltraClave® Automatic Steriliser

computer driven laser refractometer and Druck electronic leak testing equipment to ensure accuracy.

Vetquip’s biomedical technicians also deal with an extensive range of medical respiration monitors, fluid pumps, pulse oximeters, ECG machines and more.

Vetquip can cater to almost every need a veterinarian has for their practice including: Anaesthesia Dental Fluid therapy Diagnostic Lighting Monitoring

Surgical Consumables Stainless steel Cages Orthopaedic Gas supplies

Professional, friendly and helpful staff, are always available to discuss your requirements and provide answers to your technical questions.

Call now or email onPh: 1300 888 427Email: sales@vetquip.com.auwww.vetquip.com.au

A D V E R T O R I A L

A D V E R T O R I A L

PAN PAC 2015 Product guide

46

Castration of CattleCastration of male calves intended for beef production is an ancient and common routine surgical procedure carried out in Australia and overseas. There are many reasons for castration and some of the benefits include facilitation of management, improved meat quality and fewer injuries in confinement operations by decreasing aggressive and sexual behaviours. A number of methods of castration are available but the application of rubber rings and surgery are the recommended practices in Australia. While castration may appear brutal and unnecessarily painful to the general public, the Cattle Standards and Guidelines Writing Group recently reviewed the reasons for castration and the methods used and agreed that the procedure is necessary for cattle husbandry.

Pain Management in Production AnimalsPain is a subjective experience that can only be measured indirectly and identification of pain responses can be difficult in animals such as calves as they are genetically wired to conceal pain as a survival mechanism. Studies in calves have shown that all methods of castration are acutely painful and induce pain related distress that can be divided into physiological responses, behavioural responses and a production response. Furthermore, the risk of local or systemic disease after castration is increased by stress and postsurgical immunosuppression (Coetzee et al. 2011). The assessment of pain, however, is an inexact science. The types of pain and their perception are often not understood and are known to vary at different ages and between individuals.

Meloxicam – The Drug of ChoiceThere is widespread acknowledgement

from beef producers, consumers, and industry and government bodies that pain associated with surgical or non-surgical husbandry practices in cattle must be managed effectively (MLA website). NSAIDs prevent inflammation by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes and thus the production of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins associated with the COX-2 enzyme are linked with pain and inflammation that result from tissue injury.

The NSAID meloxicam exerts anti-inflammatory, anti-exudative, analgesic and antipyretic effects. It inhibits leukocyte infiltration into the inflamed tissue and prevents bone and cartilage destruction. To a minor extent it also inhibits collagen-induced thrombocyte aggregation. Unlike traditional non-selective NSAIDs, meloxicam preferentially inhibits the activity of COX-2. The resulting decrease in prostaglandin synthesis is responsible for the therapeutic effects of meloxicam. This makes meloxicam the drug of choice for use in young calves with developing

rumen function, as it will interfere less with normal homeostatic processes.

Ilium Buccalgesic OTMIlium Buccalgesic OTM is an APVMA registered ready-to-use formulation containing 10 mg meloxicam/mL and designed to provide pain relief in calves undergoing castration. Formulated for oral trans-mucosal (OTM) absorption, the dose volume is applied into the sulcus between the molar teeth and the inside of the cheek. A WHP of 14 days and an ESI of 21 days are approved. In a pharmacokinetic study, Ilium Buccalgesic OTM was found to be bioequivalent in area under the curve (AUC) to a meloxicam SC injection. Another study showed that there was a clear trend in the majority of variables assessed that Ilium Buccalgesic OTM resulted in pain mitigation in calves undergoing surgical castration.

For more information contact +61 2 8808 3600, sales@troylab.com.au or www.troylab.com.au

Pain management

Visit us at Stands 113 &

114 at Pan Pac 2015

A D V E R T O R I A L

PAN PAC 2015 Product guide

48

Your final opportunity to capture maximum tax deductions for the current fiscal year ends on 30 June 2015. Making lease repayments in advance may allow you to benefit now by capturing tax deductions in the current tax year.

If you are on the simplified tax system with less than $2 million in revenue, you may be entitled to make 12 months of advance payments if the lease was established within the previous 12 months, and effectively reduce your taxable income. There may be real benefits making tax deductions now, as money is generally worth more now than it will be worth in the future.

For example, assume you own your practice with turnover below $2 million and an average net profit of $200,000 a year. You are paying a lease on your equipment which costs $24,000 a year (total lease of $100,000 over 5 years). By making an additional $24,000 in any financial year, you might be able to reduce your net profit for that financial year by $48,000, saving you more money in tax now. The money you save in tax may be worth more in your pocket now than if you applied the same deduction in the future.

Payment structure options based on above example

Figures shown in the above table are for illustration purposes only and represent the approximate leasing repayments over 5 years based on finance of $100,000.

Speak to a finance specialist who understands your industryDiscuss your needs with a dedicated finance specialist who understands your profession and the financing options available. BOQ Specialist offers chattel mortgages, asset purchase finance and leasing for medical equipment, fitout and practice assets.

Contact 1300 131 141 or visit boqspecialist.com.au

Advance your lease payments

DisclaimerFinancial products and services described in this document are provided by BOQ Specialist Bank Limited ABN 55 071 292 594 AFSL and Australian Credit Licence 234975 (BOQ Specialist). BOQ Specialist is a wholly owned subsidiary of Bank of Queensland Limited ABN 32 009 656 740 (BOQ). BOQ and BOQ Specialist are both authorised deposit-taking institutions in their own right. Neither BOQ nor BOQ Specialist guarantees or otherwise supports the obligations or performance of each other or of each other’s products.

BOQ Specialist is the credit provider. Terms and conditions, fees and charges and lending and eligibility criteria apply. We reserve the right to cease offering these products at any time without notice. The information contained in this article (Information) is general in nature and has been provided in good faith, without taking into account your personal circumstances. While all reasonable care has been taken to ensure that the information is accurate and opinions fair and reasonable, no warranties in this regard are provided. BOQ Specialist is not offering financial, tax or legal advice. You should obtain independent financial, tax and legal advice as appropriate.

Year Advanced lease repayments Standard lease repayments

1 $48,000 $24,000

2 $24,000 $24,000

3 $24,000 $24,000

4 $24,000 $24,000

5 0 $24,000

Points to consider:n Capture maximum tax

deductions this financial yearn Making lease repayments

in advance allows you to benefit now by capturing tax deductions in the current tax year

n Contact BOQ Specialist on 1300 131 141 to find out more.

Stafford HamiltonFinance Specialist

Financial products and services described in this document are provided by BOQ Specialist Bank Limited ABN 55 071 292 594 AFSL and Australian Credit Licence 234975 (BOQ Specialist). BOQ Specialist is a wholly owned subsidiary of Bank of Queensland Limited ABN 32 009 656 740 (BOQ). BOQ and BOQ Specialist are both authorised deposit-taking institutions in their own right. Neither BOQ nor BOQ Specialist guarantees or otherwise supports the obligations or performance of each other or of each other’s products.

BOQ Specialist is the credit provider. Terms and conditions, fees and charges and lending and eligibility criteria apply. We reserve the right to cease offering these products at any time without notice. BOQ Specialist is not offering financial, tax or legal advice. You should obtain independent financial, tax and legal advice as appropriate. For full credit card terms and conditions visit boqspecialist.com.au/credit-card-terms.

Offer is available for selected new asset finance agreements with a 48 month term (or greater) that are settled between 17 May and 30 June 2015. You must apply for and be approved for a BOQ Specialist Signature Credit Card. An annual fee of $400 applies. One loan per client or related party. Offer is not able to be combined with any other offer. For terms and conditions of the offer, please refer to boqspecialist.com.au/eofy15.

* You must be a member of the Qantas Frequent Flyer program to earn Qantas Points. Membership and the earning and redemption of Qantas Points are subject to the Qantas Frequent Flyer program Terms and Conditions. Qantas Points are earned in accordance with and subject to the BOQ Specialist Qantas Rewards Program Terms and Conditions. Qantas Points and bonus Qantas Points are earned on eligible transactions only. See definition of Eligible Transaction in the BOQ Specialist Qantas Rewards Program Terms and Conditions. Please allow 6-8 weeks after purchase for points to be credited to your Qantas Frequent Flyer account. BOQ Specialist recommends that you seek independent tax advice in respect of the tax consequences (including fringe benefits tax, and goods and services tax and income tax) arising from the use of this product or from participating in the Qantas Frequent Flyer program or from using any of the rewards or other available program facilities.

To earn and redeem Velocity Frequent Flyer Points you must be a Velocity Frequent Flyer member. Velocity membership and Points earn and redemption are subject to the Member Terms and Conditions, available at velocityfrequentflyer.com, as amended from time to time.

Buy your car, equipment or fitout before 30 June and earn one point per dollar financed at no additional cost.

We will help you make the purchase on a BOQ Specialist Signature card and then conveniently convert it into a finance contract. Existing cardholders will earn points in their current program. New cardholders can choose between either the Qantas Frequent Flyer or the Velocity Frequent Flyer reward programs*. Call our team of experienced financial specialists on 1300 131 141.

BOQS001361 V1 04/15

A pointless purchase? We think not.

AS CONSUMERS INCREASINGLY MOVE towards a preference for ‘one stop shop’ for pet care, co-location of veterinarian and retail services are becoming more prevalent in Australia. Greencross Limited is leading the charge—rolling out co-located Petbarn Stores with integrated Greencross Vet clinics, aimed at delivering high quality pet care in easy-access locations for pet parents.

As a veterinarian with 12 years experience, Dr Sarah Morton was practising at Greencross’ Jindalee clinic when she was offered the role of Vet Director at the newly opening Kawana Waters clinic in September 2014:

What makes working in a co-located practice different from working in a standalone clinic?There are several differences that immediately stand out. On an operational level, we tend to thrive because we see more walk-ins and general enquiries filtering through from the retail section of the store.

We also have a superior access to new clients by being co-located, we are mentioned in Petbarn advertising regularly and the retail staff are all advocates for the clinic.

Being positioned within a retail store, we don’t need to stock retail products and only minimal numbers of preventatives.

Are there any challenging elements of general practice that are eliminated (or reduced) by the fact that you are positioned in a co-locational clinic?Not having to stock retail items can be an administrative relief and can ease running costs. Additionally, if we are experiencing a quiet period, we can pop next door and have access to a potential clients. Co-locations are very unique in that there are always opportunities to enhance our client base.

Could you describe the relationship you have with the Petbarn team?We have a great bunch of retail staff who all have the best interests of the pets at heart. They are a lovely bunch of happy and fun

people who are always willing to help us when we need it and vice versa.

It’s great to have a bunch of work mates who are genuinely interested in excellent service and care for our clients’ pets.

Is there anything else you’d like to tell me about what it’s like to work in co-lo?It was a challenging move from Jindalee for me personally. I loved working there and hesitated in making the move but now that I have I am so pleased I did it.

My satisfaction in my job is at an all-time high and I have new and exciting challenges greeting me every day. The practice is growing bigger and better every day.

Greencross Vets are looking for vets interested in taking a role in our new co-located practices, or simply take the next step in their veterinary career.

If you are interested, please visit us at the Greencross stand at the Pan Pacific Veterinary Conference, go to www.greencrossjobs.com.au or call Dr Tony Goldstone, General Manager of Partnerships on 07 3435 3553.

A D V E R T O R I A L

PAN PAC 2015 Product guide

Integrated Greencross Vet Clinics

Dear Veterinarian,

You may have found yourself a little short on ProHeart SR-12 lately. This was due to a global shortage of stock, which in turn impacted local wholesalers and, in some cases, veterinary practices. Zoetis Australia would like to sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this shortage may have caused and we thank you for your patience and continued support during this period.

We are pleased to advise that ProHeart SR-12 stock is now available from your preferred wholesaler.

Keeping Dogs Protected Now is the time to schedule Proheart SR-12 injection appointments to ensure your clients’ precious pets receive the assurance of year-round heartworm protection.

Zoetis will be working hard to support you with your business growth efforts through heartworm disease initiatives such as the Just One Bite program, Heartworm Surveillance Project and the Heartworm Risk Assessment Tool. We will also continue to provide you with support in the form of regular representative visits, educational content on Vets Australia, and access to clinic resources and local marketing tools.

We look forward to re-stocking your supplies of ProHeart SR-12 and serving your clinic’s needs now and into the future.

Yours sincerely, Connie Stewart MARKETING MANAGER

® ProHeart SR-12 is a registered trademark of Zoetis Australia Pty Ltd, Level 6, 5 Rider Boulevard, Rhodes NSW 2138.

© 2015 Zoetis Inc. All rights reserved. April 15.

For more information about ProHeart SR-12 or any of the heartworm prevention initiatives mentioned, please contact your local Zoetis representative.

An open letter from Zoetis Australia REGARDING PROHEART® SR-12

Ferno Aqua Paws Plus underwater treadmillby Dr Michael Jones, Erina Heights Vet Hospital, NSW

We purchased this treadmill to augment our orthopaedic surgeries with post-op rehabilitation. If a person has any type of orthopaedic surgery, it’s always followed up with some physio. In the pet world, surgery is usually followed by confinement and light walking. We believe it’s necessary to do more.

What’s good about itThe treadmill is positioned at the bottom of a glass tank full of water and is computer driven. When a dog is placed in the tank, it can exercise without taking weight on the limbs. We can then lower the water level and place a percentage of their weight on the limbs. As they improve, we drop the level further and weight is gradually increased. We have found that dogs recover faster and with better long-term results when they have used the treadmill after surgery.

It can also be used for weight loss. When a dog is sedentary, it’s often because their owner is sedentary too. Elderly people or people with orthopaedic issues can bring their animal in and observe while their pet exercises and gets fit. Dogs take to the treadmill very well—usually better than their owners expect. There are the odd exceptions but it’s quite rare.

We often get referrals from other hospitals including SASH and Animal Orthopaedic Specialists in Parramatta. We even have one client who comes all the way from Newcastle for sessions with her dog that had spinal surgery. The treadmill has attracted quite a few clients from beyond the Central Coast.

What’s not so goodThere’s a large capital investment in it. On top of the cost of the treadmill, we needed a purpose-built room to house it, a 2000-litre holding tank, and an extra storage tank that was required as part of our DA [development application]. It uses a lot of electricity to heat the water, and run the filtration system and pumps. Staff require a lot of training in its use.

Where did you get itMediquip (www.mediquipdirect.com.au).

A new use for cardboard; an underwater treadmill, and much more are under review this month …TOOLS

TRADEof the

Autoclaved cardboardby Dr Chris Boemo, Keysborough Veterinary Practice, VIC

I use an autoclaved square of cardboard as an assistance in doing mesh skin grafts. There is no commercially available product that serves this specific purpose.

What’s good about itThe first time I did a mesh skin graft was for a greyhound that had lost a large amount of skin down its leg due to cellulitis and infection. We took a graft from the lumbar area and I was wondering how I was going to tack it down in order to prepare it. I realised that cardboard is a substance that can be autoclaved and pinned readily. It worked very well.

Now, whenever I’m doing a mesh skin graft, I place a suitable sized piece of cardboard in an autoclave bag so that it can be used as a mounting block. The cardboard is exposed to steam, pressure and temperature which can make it a little soggy. However, if the autoclave has a drying cycle, it will dry nicely.

The graft is pinned, fur-side down to the cardboard using hypodermic needles to stretch it out. The subcutaneous and excess tissue is peeled away so that just the dermis and epidermis remains. With a fine scalpel blade, I then make numerous small little holes in the skin, poking the blade through into the cardboard. It’s a nice forgiving surface to cut into.

The mesh skin graft is then tacked around the edges of the wound and in several spots in the centre of the graft. The holes allow any weeping to escape and fluid, blood and pus does not build up underneath the graft and disrupt it.

What’s not so goodYou need to be a bit careful about cardboard fibres peeling off. I always carefully check for that but it has never been a concern.

Where did you get itThere’s always a couple of boxes lying around the practice.

Y O U R T O O L S

52

53

Y O U R T O O L S

Standard Line veterinary otoscope setby Dr Andrea Montesano, Reservoir Vet Clinic, VIC

This is a great otoscope that’s easy to use in the consult room. It allows us to diagnose ear infections and remove any foreign bodies from the ear canal. It is designed so it can be attached to a light source and a video camera. We have done this and it has made my life much easier.

What’s good about itThe addition of the video camera means that the results are seen on a television screen. I no longer have to put my head right next to the face of the dog or cat. This, of course, makes the otoscope much safer to use.

When an animal has an ear infection, I always take a look in the consult room. That way the owner can see what’s going on as well. If their pet only has an infection in one ear then I can easily demonstrate what a normal ear looks like compared to an infected ear. It makes it easy for the owner to understand that something is wrong. It’s also very obvious if their pet’s ear is dirty or if there’s an infection of mites. The compliance is wonderful.

Clients are gratified when they come back weeks later for a recheck and they can see how much better the ear looks. It shows them that the ear medication is actually working.

Animals tolerate the otoscope very well. You just have to pull the ear out to the side horizontally in order to make the canal as straight as possible.

It’s my favourite tool—it just makes my day so much easier.

What’s not so goodOur otoscope now has quite a few components with it—the TV screen, a light source, a processor, a box that prints the pictures. It all sits on a large trolley in our consulting room. If it could be made smaller and more portable, that would be nice.

Where did you get itAusvet Endoscopy (www.austvetendoscopy.com.au).

Genoray Port–XII portable dental X-ray machineby Dr Jelena Vukcevic, Inner South Veterinary Centre, Narrabundah, ACT

This is a hand-held X-ray unit that’s almost like an oversized digital SLR camera. We use it primarily for dental X-rays of cats and dogs but because it is so small, it’s very handy when X-raying fine details of exotic species such as ferrets, rabbits, reptiles and birds.

What’s good about itIt’s very simple to use and shoots like a hand-held camera. It’s simply lined up at the correct angle and a button is pressed. You shoot towards a small plate that records the image. Afterwards, the plate is placed in a desktop digital processor which transfers the result to our computer. The processing takes about 30 seconds.

The X-rays are very clear and the contrast, exposure and brightness can be adjusted to enhance detail. The image can also be transferred to an iPad or other portable tablet to show clients. We have set up the system so that the images link to Dropbox, the online data storage system, and from there they are linked to the patient file.

The unit is very safe because the dose of radiation is very small. The beam is quite concentrated and as you are shooting very close to the animal, there’s very little scatter.

These days we never do a dental procedure without taking an X-ray beforehand. This has profoundly enhanced our knowledge of veterinary dentistry.

What’s not so goodIt takes a lot of practice to get the feel of the machine and figure out the correct shooting angle in order to record a particular view. Once you get the hang of it and are able to make small adjustments when needed, it’s a great machine. I would struggle without it these days.

Where did you get itIM3 (www.im3vet.com.au).

All fired up

Inte

rvie

w:

Fran

k Le

gget

t

54

Y O U R L I F E

“The first call-out I had to a bushfire as a newly qualified member of the Rural Fire Service was to a blaze across the road from my house. There had been a burn the day before and to all intents and purposes, the fire was out. Then a hot wind picked up and reignited the fire, pumping it through the bush.

“When your own property is in danger, there’s a bit of extra passion to get the fire extinguished. It all ended well and my house didn’t get burnt but I had an increased respect for fire.

“I moved to the rural town of Kulnura (in the Central Coast region) in 1999 and started the vet clinic in 2000. From across the road of the clinic, there is nothing but bush all the way to the mountains. It worried me that

I had no idea what to do in a bush fire.“The clinic is also near a road that

had a lot of fatal or near-fatal accidents. People were forever banging on our door asking for help and first aid kits. It made sense for me to join the Rural Fire Service [RFS] so I could learn what to do in a bushfire and how to assist people in car accidents.

“The RFS trained me in bushfire fighting techniques with a combination of theory sessions, practicals and assessments. The training takes months to complete and is very rigorous.

“Our fire fighting is all about property protection. You might be sent down a road that backs onto the national park, watching for embers and putting out fires when they start. If a large

fire-front moves in, we’ve been trained to know when it’s safe to keep working and when to get out.

“The RFS is the ultimate equal-opportunity organisation and the brigades are made up of all types of people—men, women, young, old, disabled—everyone is welcome. If the newer members get a bit over-excited during a fire, the older folk who guide them are cool, calm and collected. They really know their stuff.

“The RFS is almost the very definition of community. We all work together as a team and our differences don’t matter in the slightest. You’re helping your mates protect their property and you know they’re going to help you if it turns around the other way.”

After joining the Rural Fire Service, Dr Anna Pillich of Kulnura Veterinary Clinic in New South Wales became one of the first female deputy captains in her area

Please Visit our Stand 116

at Pan Pac 2015