The Online Veterinary Anatomy Museum (OVAM) launched on November 20

OVAM offers free access to detailed, annotated diagrams, specimens and radiographic images. Podcasts and dissection videos will follow soon.

Throughout development OVAM made use of veterinary student curators to help build and shape the site. The benefits of a free digital museum for students are obvious, and as the museum grows it’ll become an integral, community driven learning aid.

Take a digital stroll through OVAM today!

Researchers develop new methodology for scanning canine brain function

Emory University is using functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI), the same technology used to unlock human brain function, on dogs. Dogs are not forced or commanded to carry out the tests and no harm or damage is caused.

The test currently involves two dogs, Callie and McKenzie, with an aim to discover whether the dogs are capable of empathy, emotional awareness and to what degree dogs actually understand language.

For more information visit Vetscite.

The risks of antimicrobial resistance passing from animals to humans are lower than previously thought

New research published in Proceedings of the Royal Society B has found use of veterinary antibiotics carries a lower risk of resistance in human medicine than previous research indicated.

Carl Padgett, BVA president, commented:
“The researchers state that it is unlikely that the animal population is the major source of resistance diversity for humans.”

The BVA promotes responsible use of antimicrobials.

See more details and the full research report here.

Leading university opens new facility with state of the art technology.

Princess Anne officially opened the new facility which will serve accomodate over 1000 staff and students. The facility will focus on modern technology, preparing the next generation of vets with the skills necessary to succeed in a global market.

Among other cutting edge facilities, there will also be a Second Life virtual equine clinic. Second Life has been implemented by a number of business both for training and marketing purposes, and its addition to veterinary education is very intriguing.

The new teaching facility joins a series of redevelopment at The University of Edinburgh, which moved The Roslin Institute to a new facility in July.

Take a look at The Royal (Dick) site for more information.