Vet Times Podcast

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  Ep 143: Low-intensity focused ultrasound, with Mandy Moody 11.08.2026 8хв

  The first clinical trials for veterinary application of low-intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU) are getting underway in the United States to generate clinical evidence on its potential as a non-invasive for chronic pain management. Texas-based veterinarian Mandy Moody, director of clinical research at Pelara and SecureDX, which have partnered to launch the trials, joins Chris Simpson to explain the science behind LIFU and where she hopes it might fit into the future of veterinary medicine. Podcast music: “Funky Chunk” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
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  Vet Times Extra: Antimicrobial stewardship work in Wales, with Amelia Sidwell and Hannah Jarman 31.07.2026 23хв

  In this Vet Times Extra podcast, in association with Arwain DGC, Amelia Sidwell and Hannah Jarman discuss the valuable work of Arwain DGC, a Welsh government-funded programme that brings together veterinary professionals, farmers, researchers and industry partners to tackle antimicrobial resistance in livestock and the environment. The programme promotes responsible antimicrobial stewardship through training, research, data collection, technology adoption and knowledge exchange across Wales. At the heart of the programme is the Veterinary Prescribing Champions, or VPC, network. This network, which now covers 90% of the country, consists of veterinary surgeons from livestock practices across Wales who act as leaders and advocates for responsible antimicrobial use within their practices and farming communities. VPCs receive ongoing training and participate in workshops, discussion groups and peer learning activities, working collaboratively to maintain high prescribing standards and encourage evidence-based decision-making. For more details, visit the website: https://mentera.cymru/arwaindgc/ Amelia Sidwell grew up on a dairy farm in Derbyshire, where her interest in antimicrobial use (AMU) and stewardship first developed. She graduated cum laude from the University of Veterinary Medicine, Budapest in 2016, and began her career in mixed practice, later focused on equine dentistry and maxillofacial surgery. She completed specialist training in this field through an EVDC residency. During this time, she led antimicrobial stewardship initiatives, published on AMU in equine dentistry, and presented internationally on the subject. Following the defence of her Master’s thesis on pain behaviour in equids, she now works as veterinary development manager for Arwain DGC, where she is conducting research to support AMU decision-making in farm animal practice. She continues to undertake clinical work in both small animal emergency and critical care and the equine sector alongside her role. Hannah Jarman is a director and veterinary prescribing champion (VPC) at Prostock Vets, leading the practice's antimicrobial stewardship work. Passionate about responsible medicine use, she runs farmer education programmes, leads flock health discussions, and has secured funding for innovative technologies that support targeted treatments and reduce antibiotic use. Known for her energy and enthusiasm, Hannah is committed to preventive herd and flock health, mentoring the next generation of vets, and driving practical solutions that improve animal health, farm productivity and antimicrobial stewardship. Podcast music: “Funky Chunk” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
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  Ep 142: Gut microbiome research, with Phil Watson 28.07.2026 14хв

  Earlier this year, a landmark study [https://www.vettimes.com/news/vet-nursing/small-animal/study-offers-dramatic-increase-in-knowledge-of-canine-microbiome] offered a “dramatic increase” in our understanding of the canine microbiome. One of its authors, Phil Watson, senior research manager at Waltham Petcare Science Institute, sat down with Chris Simpson to discuss the study’s findings and how they might be used to help vets tailor treatments to animals’ individual gut microbiomes in the future. Podcast music: “Funky Chunk” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
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  Vet Times Extra: Ten years compulsory UK dog microchipping – with Steve Leonard and Fiona Cooke 04.06.2026 43хв

  Ten years on from the introduction of compulsory dog microchipping in the UK – how much has really changed for pets, vets, charities and owners? As one of the UK’s leading pet microchip providers, Identichip brings together leading veterinarian Steve Leonard and Fiona Cooke, associate director of policy and impact at Woodgreen Pets Charity, for this Vet Times podcast. Together, they explore the impact of the legislation, ongoing challenges, registration compliance, success stories from practice and charity work and the importance of keeping details up to date. SPONSORED This Vet Times Extra podcast is sponsored by Identicare – the suppliers of Identichip microchips and the Defra-compliant pet database Identibase. Identicare supports vets and animal charities with high-quality microchips, scanners and a dedicated team to help with the full pet protection journey, from implantation and registration to keeping owner details up-to-date. For microchipping support and resources, contact Identichip or visit https://identichip.co.uk/ Steve Leonard qualified from the University of Bristol in 1996. His final year at university was filmed by the BBC for a documentary called “Vet School”. He went on to make many wildlife and veterinary documentaries taking him all over the globe and working alongside some of the planet’s most iconic species. Steve has remained a passionate small animal vet and passed his BSAVA Certificate in Small Animal Medicine with distinction in 2017. He is the co-founder of Phoenix Vet Practice, a new independent practice in Nantwich, Cheshire that opened in May 2026. Fiona Cooke is associate director of policy and impact at Woodgreen Pets Charity, where she leads the campaigns, policy, research and insights teams. With a background in animal welfare law and policy, she works on issues including pet identification, responsible ownership, and improving outcomes for pets and their owners. Fiona is also a registered clinical animal behaviourist, bringing practical and scientific expertise to her role. She’s passionate about animal welfare and keeping pets and people together and has published widely on animal welfare and issues affecting pet owners.
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  Ep 141: Brachycephalic dog breeds, with Dan O’Neill and Rowena Packer 28.05.2026 50хв

  Amid falling Royal Kennel Club registrations of key brachycephalic dog breeds, RVC academics Dan O’Neill and Rowena Packer join Chris Simpson to discuss the efforts of the UK’s Brachycephalic Working Group. Prof O’Neill and Dr Packer provide updates on their latest research, the launch of the Innate Health Assessment tool [https://www.innatehealthassessment.org/] and discuss the role vets have to play in bringing an end to animals with extreme conformation. Podcast music: “Funky Chunk” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
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  Ep 140: Mentorship and NAVC plans, with Jon Townsend 14.05.2026 17хв

  Chris Simpson sits down with new president of the North American Veterinary Community’s (NAVC) board of directors, Jon Townsend, to discuss his plans to expand mentorship opportunities across the profession during his presidential year. Dr Townsend also discusses the latest updates on the outbreaks of avian influenza in dairy herds across the United States and offers his take on veterinary telemedicine. Podcast music: “Funky Chunk” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
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  Ep 139: Thoughts on CMA measures and process, with VMG president Rebecca Robinson 01.05.2026 7хв

  A month on from the Competition and Markets Authority’s (CMA) publication of its final remedies for the UK pet sector, vet leaders gathered at the Crowne Plaza Hotel for VMG Congress. VMG president Rebecca Robinson joined Chris Simpson to discuss the feeling among delegates about the measures and give her own thoughts on the CMA process. Podcast music: “Funky Chunk” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
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  Ep 138: Cats with extreme conformations, with Claire Roberts and Madison Rogers 02.04.2026 19хв

  With purebred and pedigree cats becoming increasingly popular among pet owners, Cats Protection feline welfare researcher Claire Roberts speaks about her recent welfare review of concerns associated with purebred cats with extreme features. Meanwhile, the charity’s associate director of advocacy, campaigns and external affairs, Madison Rogers, discusses Cats Protection’s campaign for cat breeding to be regulated across the UK. Podcast music: “Funky Chunk” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
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  Ep 137: US veterinary issues, with AVMA president Michael Bailey 13.03.2026 29хв

  Chris Simpson sits down with Michael Q Bailey, president of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), to discuss the issues facing veterinarians in the United States. Dr Bailey discusses rural veterinary workforce shortages and the AVMA-sponsored legislation set to tackle the issue, the Combating Illicit Xylazine Act, and the latest efforts to combat the re-emerging threat of New World Screwworm. Podcast music: “Funky Chunk” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
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  Vet Times Big 6 2026: How sector moves on post-CMA 06.03.2026 59хв

  Allister Webb and James Westgate welcome a panel of industry experts to examine how the veterinary sector can move forward after the CMA investigation in a discussion recorded at SPVS Congress in Birmingham. Podcast music: “Funky Chunk” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
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  Ep 136: Mixed practice life and award win a year on, with Leah Hunter 03.03.2026 14хв

  With the nomination deadline for the 2026 BVA Awards looming on 16 March, last year’s BVA Young Vet of the Year winner Leah Hunter joins Chris Simpson to talk about her experiences of winning the accolade and life as a mixed practice vet in Orkney. Dr Hunter, of Flett and Carmichael Veterinary Surgeons, was recognised for her “extraordinary dedication; compassion; unwavering devotion to her patients; and professionalism in all aspects of her work”. She also discusses her work with multiple charities as an Orkney Nature Festival trustee, a British Divers Marine Life Rescue medic and Scottish Marine Animal Stranding Scheme volunteer. Podcast music: “Funky Chunk” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
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  Ep 135: Veterinary Surgeons Act reform, with BVA president Rob Williams 20.02.2026 23хв

  With consultations on reforming veterinary legislation now finally underway, BVA president Rob Williams returns to the podcast to discuss his hopes and fears for the process with Allister Webb. The consultation (https://consult.defra.gov.uk/reform-of-the-veterinary-surgeons-act/consultation/) is open for submissions until 25 March.    Podcast music: “Funky Chunk” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
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  Ep 134: Veterinary legislative reform plans, with deputy CVO Ele Brown 17.02.2026 20хв

  With a long-awaited consultation on veterinary legislative reform now finally underway, Allister Webb is joined by Defra’s deputy chief veterinary officer Ele Brown to discuss what change might achieve for the sector. The consultation (https://consult.defra.gov.uk/reform-of-the-veterinary-surgeons-act/consultation/) is open for submissions until 25 March.    Podcast music: “Funky Chunk” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Image: Defra / GOV.UK
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  Ep 133: Vets on the Ukraine front line, with Daria Ponomarenko and Mark Johnston 13.02.2026 39хв

  As the fourth anniversary of Russia’s invasion in Ukraine approaches, vets in the country – many of whom are fighting or serving as combat medics on the front lines as well as managing their clinics – are facing shortages of vital medicines and equipment. At the same time, rabies cases in wild and stray animals are on the rise, putting vets in further danger during the conflict. Ukrainian vet Daria Ponomarenko and ProSalus Foundation vice-president Mark Johnston, who visited the country last year, join Chris Simpson to discuss the issues facing vets as the war rages on and appeal for vital donations. Veterinary professionals can donate medicines, equipment and supplies, or make a financial donation, at the ProSalus website [https://prosalusfoundation.org/our-projects/#ukraine-section] or by emailing Dr Johnston at vice-president@prosalusfoundation.org. ProSalus is also holding a silent auction [https://www.vettimes.com/news/vets/wellbeing-at-work/art-sale-aims-to-boost-ukrainian-veterinary-work] of Ukrainian art [https://prosalusfoundation.org/product-category/different-together-series-by-anna-khomchyk/], raising funds for the Ukrainian Small Animal Veterinary Association. Podcast music: “Funky Chunk” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
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  Ep 132: Vet nurse burnout prevention survey, with Angela Chapman 16.01.2026 18хв

  Burnout, mental health issues and staff turnover are challenges that continue to affect the veterinary profession. Angela Chapman, senior veterinary nursing lecturer at Melbourne Polytechnic and graduate researcher at La Trobe University, joins Chris Simpson to discuss her new vet nurse burnout prevention survey [https://www.veterinaryburnout.com.au/workplace-survey]. Podcast music: “Funky Chunk” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
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  Vet Times Extra: JAK inhibitors and veterinary dermatology, with Darren Berger 09.01.2026 28хв

  Allergic dermatitis is one of the most challenging chronic conditions we face in practice. Not just clinically, but because owners expect their dogs to return to “normal.”   In this podcast with Darren Berger, US board certified dermatologist and Elanco’s head of allergy and dermatology, we’ll look at the science behind Zenrelia, the new JAK inhibitor helping dogs get back to normal, and how it’s changing how we manage itchy dogs and their owners. Dr Berger is a American board-certified veterinary dermatologist with extensive experience in clinical practice, research and education. He is an accomplished speaker and an author and editor, having written many journal articles and his own textbook. He has special interests in clinical pharmacology and the management of allergic skin diseases and prior to joining Elanco Animal Health, he was a tenured professor at Iowa State University. Dr Berger resides in Iowa with his family, but you will often find him sharing his passion for dermatology through speaking events around the country and internationally. SPONSORED This podcast is sponsored by Elanco Animal Health, the company behind Zenrelia. Zenrelia™ film coated tablets contain ilunocitinib. Legal category POM-V in UK, POM in IE. For further information call Elanco Animal Health on +44(0)1256 353131 or write to: Elanco UK AH Limited, Form 2, Bartley Way, Bartley Wood Business Park, Hook, RG27 9XA, United Kingdom. For further information, consult the product SPC. Zenrelia, Elanco and the diagonal bar logo are trademarks of Elanco or its affiliates.
©2025 Elanco or its affiliates

Advice should be sought from the medicine prescriber prior to use. Prescription decisions are for the person issuing the prescription alone. Use medicines responsibly www.noah.co.uk/responsible or www.apha.ie
 References Forster S et al (2025). Comparative efficacy and safety of ilunocitinib and oclacitinib for the control of pruritus and associated skin lesions in dogs with atopic dermatitis, Vet Dermatol 36(2): 165-176. Olivry T, Bensignor E, Favrot C et al (2018). Development of a core outcome set for therapeutic clinical trials enrolling dogs with atopic dermatitis (COSCAD’18), BMC Vet Res 14(1): 238.   Links MyElanco: Zenrelia | New once-daily treatment for itchy dogs (https://my.elanco.com/en_gb/product-support/pet/zenrelia) Zenrelia SPC information can be found on MyElanco using the link above or on the VMD Product Information Database: Product Information Database - Home (https://www.vmd.defra.gov.uk/productinformationdatabase/)
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  Vet Times Extra: 20 years of University of Liverpool’s Royal Canin Obesity Care Clinic, with Georgia Woods-Lee and Alex German 12.12.2025 25хв

  SPONSORED In today’s episode, sponsored by Royal Canin, we celebrate 20 years of Royal Canin’s partnership with the University of Liverpool’s Obesity Care Clinic – the world’s first specialist weight loss clinic for cats and dogs. This pioneering collaboration has transformed obesity care, combining expert research with exceptional service for clients and referring vet practices. Join us as Georgia Woods-Lee and Professor Alex German share how the Royal Canin Obesity Care Clinic is shaping the future of pet health and the vital role vets can play in tackling obesity. In 2015, Georgia Woods-Lee took the position of clinical lead for the Royal Canin Weight Management Clinic (recently renamed the Royal Canin Obesity Care Clinic) at the University of Liverpool, Small Animal Teaching Hospital, where she is now dealing exclusively with pet obesity care and nutrition. Georgia was awarded her Certificate in Canine and Feline Veterinary Health Nutrition in 2017, the American Veterinary Technician Specialist (VTS) in nutrition certificate in 2019 , and her BSc (Hons) Veterinary Nursing (Top-up) degree in 2022. Georgia is currently working towards a PhD in pet obesity. Alex German holds the position of Royal Canin professor of small animal medicine at the University of Liverpool. He is a 1994 graduate of the University of Bristol and, after spending two years in mixed practice, returned to Bristol to undertake a PhD in mucosal immunology, and then a residency in small animal internal medicine. He is a diplomate of the European College of Veterinary Internal Medicine and also a RCVS-recognised specialist in internal medicine. His clinical and research interests include comparative obesity biology, ageing, preventing chronic disease, gastroenterology, and evidence-based veterinary medicine. For more on the clinic, visit its website at https://www.liverpool.ac.uk/small-animal-teaching-hospital/clinical-services/weight-management/
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  Vet Times Extra: Importance of faecal antigen testing, with Richard Sanderson and Carole MacColl 05.12.2025 35хв

  For this Vet Times Extra podcast, Paul Imrie is joined by RCVS advanced practitioner in small animal practice Richard Sanderson and professional services vet for IDEXX Carole MacColl to discuss faecal antigen testing. SPONSORED Parasites pose a serious threat to pets and people. But prevention alone may not be 100% effective. Updated industry guidelines now recommend intestinal parasite testing at least once a year, regardless of deworming. Combine your preventives with Faecal Dx antigen testing, and parasites don’t stand a chance. Faecal Dx antigen testing offers early, accurate detection of the most common intestinal parasites, even in well cats and dogs. Learn more at https://www.idexx.co.uk/en-gb/veterinary/reference-laboratories/fecal-testing/fecal-dx-antigen-test/?utm_source=vet_times&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=rlb_fecaldx_2025 The views and opinions in this recorded conversation expressed by the guest interviewee are the guest interviewee's own and do not necessarily reflect the views of IDEXX. Richard Sanderson, BVSc, CertAVP(SAP), MRCVS, is an RCVS advanced practitioner in small animal practice and director of Peninsula Vet Referrals. He graduated from the University of Liverpool in 2009. An advocate for independent veterinary practice, he founded Sanderson Vet in 2016. This started as a mobile vet and has developed into a 24-hour first opinion clinic. Already accepting a wide range of referrals, he formalised their referral services and opened Peninsula Vet Referrals, which focuses on offering “Affordable experience and accessible expertise”, aiming to make referrals more affordable and easier to access. Carole MacColl BVMS, PGCert, VetEd FHEA, MRCVS graduated from the University of Glasgow in 2011, and gained experience in first opinion practice before undertaking a rotating internship with a focus on emergency and critical care. She spent time as an ECC clinician in referral hospitals throughout Australia and the UK, before a role as a senior veterinarian in the RVC’s first opinion teaching hospital. Carole joined IDEXX as a professional services veterinarian covering the south of the UK in 2021.
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  Vet Times Extra: talking wellness testing with Rory Cowlam 21.11.2025 27хв

  Despite growing interest in preventive care, many veterinary teams face a tough reality: wellness testing isn’t always viable, and the data linking it to better patient outcomes is still emerging. Yet the logic remains compelling – earlier detection should mean earlier intervention – but should wellness testing become the norm in general practice? This episode explores the clinical value and operational realities when it comes to replacing the ‘wait and see’ with ‘track and find out.’ SPONSORED This podcast is sponsored by Zoetis, makers of the vetscan range of AI-powered diagnostic analysers, which includes the vetscan Imagyst, vetscan Opticell and vetscan VS2. For more information on the full range, speak to your Zoetis account manager to learn more or visit the website. (zoetisdiagnostics.com/us/point-of-care/chemistry/vetscan-vs2) Rory Cowlam BVetMed, PgCert, MRCVS, is a graduate of the RVC with more than a decade’s worth of experience in companion animal veterinary care. He is a certificate holder in small animal surgery and has a particular interest in preventative care. Rory works as clinical director of Pickles Vets in Fulham London and, as well as being known for his TV work with Pets Factor and more recently Blue Peter, he also serves as a charity ambassador for the RSPCA and StreetVet.
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  Ep 131: Cost of caring for pets crisis, with Paul Manktelow 18.11.2025 21хв

  With many owners still struggling with the cost of caring for their pets, the crisis, together with wider economic pressures, is also having a significant impact on the charitable sector. Blue Cross director of veterinary services Paul Manktelow joins Allister Webb to discuss the issue and the radical changes his organisation is making in a bid to tackle it.   Podcast music: “Funky Chunk” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/