Veterinary Events and Conferences

BSAVA Scottish Congress raises the bar again

vetreportSeptember 15, 2013

BSAVA’s Scottish Congress is fast becoming the summer event of the year. This year saw 157 delegates from as far away as Australia, America, Switzerland, The Netherland and Canada enjoy a weekend of superb CPD and socialising in the stunning city of Edinburgh.

For all the profession

The programme from 31 August to 1 September catered for 125 vets, 70 nurses and, for the first time, 32 students, with a special programme dedicated at helping them make the transition from vet school to working life. There was advice on topics such as ‘getting your first job’, ‘writing an effective CV’, ‘what to expect from your first day in practice’ and ‘dealing with feelings of loneliness and isolation’.

Wide-ranging programme

Morning lecture topics covered included cardiology, wound management, neurology and how to make the most of your practice lab. Afternoon Seminars covered a wide range of subjects such as joint surgery, the acute abdomen, behaviour, ECGs, physiotherapy, urinary tract surgery, pyrexia of unknown origin, pet travel, mammary oncology, clinical coaching in practice, and anaesthetic emergencies.

A particular highlight of the Conference was the presentation of four case reports with the audience deciding on which one would win. The winner was a case presented by Ide Hearun entitled ‘Management of prolonged food deprivation, neurological dysfunction and prevention of refeeding syndrome in a cat.’

More than just CPD

The exhibition at Scottish Congress has grown impressively, with 53 exhibitors showcasing an interesting range of products and services. The Exhibition had to be extended into the lounge area for the first time giving delegates more space to check out the products and services on display.

Of course, this wouldn’t be a BSAVA Congress without top class entertainment – and the Scottish region do it in style – with delegates enjoying a 3 course dinner and dancing at the cèilidh into the early hours at The Edinburgh Corn Exchange.

Shona Campbell, a Veterinary Nurse attending the Congress for the first time said that the event was “welcoming and friendly with a great quality of lectures with enthusiastic speakers. I’ll be back!”

Plans are already underway for Scottish Congress 2014 due to be held in Edinburgh 29-31 August. For more information email Ben Dales – b.dales@bsava.com.