As we move on from the effects of the pandemic the number of on-site CPD courses being offered is increasing. It seems that uptake is variable, with many veterinarians having grown accustomed to the online learning forum. While there are certainly advantages to this, such as convenience, the interaction between delegates and speakers should not be underestimated. In addition, practical skills can really only be taught in person, so the model of online webinars (to teach the theory) followed by on-site practical courses seems commonplace now. With experience of teaching on these practical courses, it is clear that many delegates have either encountered technical difficulties watching the webinars, or they simply haven't had the time. This can significantly reduce the benefit of the practical session. Certainly in the current recruitment and retention crisis the equine veterinary industry seems to be facing, many veterinarians are working extra shifts and are thereby squeezing in time for CPD, but who wants to sit down and watch an online webinar when you've just worked a 12 hour day!
This summer I attended the European College of Veterinary Surgeons Congress which ran as a hybrid with both online and in person options for attendance. The upcoming British Equine Veterinary Association Congress will be run in a similar way. The dilemma facing organisers of these meetings in the future will be balancing the costs of venue hire against a potentially dwindling number of on-site attendees. In addition, companies that traditionally exhibit at these meetings will have to weigh up the cost:benefit ratio if footfall in the exhibitor halls becomes too small. The social side of these meetings is also not to be underestimated, with countless networking opportunities or merely chances to catch up with old friends or make new ones. The cost of living crisis will also impact decisions on whether to attend online where delegates are funding CPD out of their own pockets.
UK-Vet Equine continues to offer high quality CPD in the form of highly practical, peer-reviewed articles to help inform the equine practitioner. This edition is no exception, with a range of high quality articles. Moses Brennan has drawn on his wealth of experience to write a well-illustrated and practical review of surgical management of sarcoids. The article provides a beautifully described step-by-step approach to surgical considerations for ‘smart’ surgery, cryosurgery and laser removal of skin neoplasias commonly encountered in equine practice.
Australia-based equine vet Tania Sundra has provided a timely and interesting review of medical management strategies for laminitis in its three forms, sepsis-related, supporting limb and endocrinopathic laminitis, which should be of great use to equine practitioners who commonly see presentations of this debilitating condition in their practices. Charlotte Easton-Jones and Catriona Mackenzie's review of synovial sepsis in neonatal foals encompasses the management of this condition from its aetiopathogenesis to its management with surgical joint lavage and bone debridement, including helpful information on dosages of anti-inflammatories and analgesia safe for use in neonates.
In addition, clinical animal behaviourist Jenni Nellist has provided the second instalment of her review of the developmental behaviour of foals and its relevance to husbandry. This piece focuses on the critical period of weaning, its impact on foals' future behaviour and resilience to stress, and provides practical advice on providing client education to owners and breeders. A new feature in the nursing section sees ambulatory nurse Cassie Woods break down the role and importance of ambulatory nurses within the wider multi-disciplinary team, and gives advice for both nurses and vets on maximising the potential of these roles to streamline and improve service delivery.