The British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA), in collaboration with key stakeholders, has published new resources to help vets provide appropriate treatment to any UK equid when an owner or keeper cannot be identified.
It’s a rare callout, but when a vet is asked to attend an animal in distress, the RCVS Code of Professional Conduct states that they should not unreasonably refuse to provide first aid and pain relief. This may include euthanasia. Whether it’s a horse, pony, donkey, mule or even a zebra of unknown ownership, the attending vet must be clear about the appropriate procedures for handling the case.
The new online resources have been compiled by BEVA in collaboration with the RSPCA, World Horse Welfare, the SSPCA and the National Equine Crime Group, together with national Police and Local Authority representatives.
“It can be an intimidating process when visiting an equid without an owner,” said BEVA President Imogen Burrows, “but our new resources aim to address the potential stress factor and make the rules around the provision of care very clearcut.
“We have produced all the documents the attending vet should need, no matter their location or circumstances. Most importantly, if they are attending alone, they will know how to access the right help at the right time, secure in the knowledge that they are following appropriate, validated procedures.”
The mobile-friendly document library includes a decision tree for quick checking correct procedures, an overview of stakeholder roles and responsibilities, a ‘what if’ section for troubleshooting and an essential contacts registry. Examination and treatment worksheets as well as a euthanasia certification form provide essential support to ensure all paperwork is completed correctly.
“We have put significant thought and effort into producing these new resources, especially from an ambulatory veterinary perspective,” said Imogen Burrows. “It should make all the difference for vets, knowing that they have the all the information they need, to hand, In the unlikely event of a callout to an equid of unknown ownership.”
Access the resources
Image credit: World Horse Welfare