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Professional Education China Companion Animal Welfare Veterinary Program

‘Cure with Care’ ACTAsia & Vets Beyond Borders

2009-2015 Report

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Preface

We all turn to professionals for guidance at times, trusting the knowledge of experts to help resolve our prob-lems. That’s why ACTAsia offers training and professional development to the influential members of our commu-nities, such as lawyers, vets, doctors, social workers, teachers, journalists and NGO members. They are essential stakeholders in our campaign for a more humane society. By promoting animal welfare and a compassionate lifestyle to these key stakeholders of our communities, ACTAsia can extend its program to reach many branches of the public. We offer professional workshops and provide infor-mation about human and animal welfare, environmental protection and empathic living, to help us spread our message through the authority of respected professionals.

In China there are no animal protections laws, and the understanding of animal sentience and welfare is very ba-sic. While society’s understanding of these terms is increasing slowly, professional stakeholders have the authority to really enhance the concepts of sentience, welfare and compassion if they lead by example. That’s why ACTAsia invests in researching and identifying the most important stakeholders in our professional edu-cation program, and building long-lasting relationships. It is then our job to provide the information and the tools for our professional advocates (NGO volunteers, veterinarians, lawyers, social workers and more) to promote hu-mane values through their day-to-day work with the public.

In China, veterinary professionals play a critical role in promoting positive interactions and relationships between humans and animals. Vets have the authority to work with government agencies to manage stray animals, and have the influence to turn a brutal campaign into a humane program. They are also a key source of information for owners of companion animals, with the power to help Chinese society understand that all animals are sen-tient, and deserve our respect.

Cure with Care is ACTAsia’s veterinary training program, developed and delivered in partnership with Vets Beyond Borders Australia since 2009. Focusing on companion animals, we teach vets modern sterilisation techniques, how to manage healthy populations of companion animals, the significance of rabies vaccinations, humane euthanasia and how best to advise owners on the care of their pets. The message of the program is that people and companion animals can live together in harmony. By training vets to become educators themselves and to share their new knowledge with a wider circle of animal professionals in China, ACTAsia’s reach is greatly and effectively increased.

Pei F. Su Executive Director of ACTAsia

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Contents Who we are p. 4

Introduction p. 6

Background p. 6

Main Aim p. 6

Key Objectives p. 6

Overview of Methodology p. 7

Achievements p. 8

Quotes from Trainers & Trainees p. 8

2015 Assessment Visit p. 11

Why this is a Pioneer Project p. 11

Conclusion p. 11

Acknowledgements p. 12

Appendix - Annual Training Details p. 13

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ACTAsia www.actasia.org

ACTAsia was founded in 2006 by Pei Feng Su and Deepashree Balaram: Ms Su, born in Taiwan, is a sociologist; Ms Balaram, born in India, is a veterin-arian. The organisation was created with the sole purpose of helping Asian cultures evolve into caring societies, respecting all forms of life. ACTAsia is a registered charity in the UK and The Netherlands, a 501(c)3 in the US and a recognised charitable organisation in China with a designated office in Zhongshan. Currently an application is in progress for charitable status in Australia.

ACTAsia is currently staffed by 6 paid full time employees and 2 part time employees: the Executive Director based in the UK with 4 full time and 2 part time employees (Chinese nationals) based in China, and 1 in Europe. In addition there is a large and growing band of volunteers working in China, also an international Board of Advisors. Although a relatively young organisation – 10 years in 2016 – there is extensive knowledge and experience within the organisation as many of the staff, advisors and volunteers have worked for decades as professionals in the field of animal welfare, human welfare and education. On April 30th, 2015, ACTAsia was listed as one of “Top 10 Influential Institutions of China’s Urbanisation in 2014” in the China Urbanisation International Summit.

Vets Beyond Borders Australia (VBB) www.vetsbeyondborders.org

Founded in 2003, VBB is an Australian-based, not-for-profit organisation established by a group of veterinary volunteers. VBB co-ordinates and runs veterinary based animal and public health programs in developing commu-nities of the Asia and Pacific region. Its programs include: work with local governments and organisations to estab-lish effective veterinary based programs; undertake the clinical training of local veterinary personnel to build their skills; co-ordinate volunteer veterinarians and veterinarian nurses to work on these programs; supply much needed medications and surgical equipment; facilitate the funding of buildings and important infrastructure such as kennels to hospitalise treated animals; contribute to the development of wider programs to address animals and community health issues.

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China Local Team

ACTAsia coordinator: Isobel Zhang

Team Members of VBB in China:

Yongjun Zhang (President of Beijing Long An Animal Hospital)

Nan Song (director of Beijing Animal Hospital)

Miao Jiao (Director of Health Care Department of Shenzhen Ruipeng Pet Hospital)

Lei Duan (Director of Changsha Meow Ji Quan Ji Pet Hospital)

Zhijuan Yin (President of Nanjing Zhixin Pet Clinic)

Ye Liu (veterinarian of Beijing Long An Animal Hospital and director of nursing department)

Ye He (attending doctor of Beijing Rongan pet hospital)

Jie Wang (President of Shenzhen Petl Hospital)

Shengyin Zou (director of Shenzhen Huanan pet hospital)

Xinyang Guo (Beijing Long An Animal Hospital)

Yi Liang (President of Shenzhen Ruipeng Pet Hospital)

Weidong Fan (President of Shenzhen Renhe Animal Hospital)

Jiang Gui’e（President of Shenzhen Ruipeng Pet Hospital)

Xue Xunjie, (President of Beijing Jun Jie Animal Hospital)

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Introduction:

This paper gives a brief overview of the veterinary training programme and its delivery over the past 5 years. De-tailed reports are available for each year’s action (see additional information in Appendix 5) and also include de-tails of methodology, participating local partners and evaluation. ACTAsia is responsible for the strategic planning and logistics of the programme and Vets Beyond Borders(VBB) Australia deliver the programme. Participants are given a veterinary training manual, (259 pages in both English and Chinese languages) designed by Dr. Chris Bar-ton; Dr. Elaine Ong, specific to the needs of China

Background:

In 2009 ACTAsia in collaboration with Vets Beyond Borders (VBB) Australia, introduced a veterinary training pro-gramme for vets in China. Through extensive research over 3 years, anecdotal evidence and visits to veterinary clinics to observe attitudes and techniques, it became apparent that many veterinarians in China had little know-ledge and understanding of animal welfare concepts. Veterinary training in universities has little focus on companion animal issues, yet veterinarians have an essential role in improving animal welfare and hu-mane rabies control. The increasing number of stray animals in China is becoming a significant welfare problem, with methods of control largely inhumane and ineffective e.g. indiscriminate mass culling of thousands of dogs when a problem is brought to the attention of the authorities such as noise pollution; bites; rabies outbreak. Rabies is a significant animal and human welfare issue in China, with more than 3,000 human deaths each year. There is no co-ordinated government strategy, low awareness of the disease and access to post-ex-posure treatment, also low vaccination of dogs. (The co-founder of ACTAsia, Dr. Depashree Balaram is now an Advisor to ACTAsia in her role as co-ordinator of the Global Alliance for Rabies Control)

ACTAsia’s observations during research visits to veterinary clinics revealed serious welfare issues relating to anim-al handling, pain relief, providing a sterile environment, the suitability of drugs and sutures used, also the general overall attitude and interest of the veterinarians. There is little co-operation with vets and the fledgling animal protection groups, although there are some vets who do spay and neuter cats for such groups at a low cost. However their work tends to be of a low standard res-ulting in a high death toll of animals. To address these shortcomings, ACTAsia for Animals and Vets Beyond Borders decided to design a programme specific to the needs of China. This programme has been running for 5 years.

Main Aim:

To enable Chinese veterinarians to develop animal welfare knowledge, humane technical skills and to apply their learning to significantly improve the lives of animals in China.

Key objectives:

• To train veterinarians to become trainers and take on ownership for the programme. • To develop collaboration between veterinarians and animal protection groups. • To promote humane methods of spay/neuter through their veterinary clinics. • To provide training to animal protection groups relating to co-operation with veterinarians, planning and

implementing education, and awareness programmes.

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• To inspire and encourage veterinarians to further develop their theoretical knowledge and practical ex-pertise, through continuing professional education opportunities.

Overview of Methodology:

Initially through veterinary training workshops in collaboration with Beijing General Station of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services (Beijing Agricultural Bureau) and Capital Animal Welfare Association. As the training pro-gramme expands to other areas, it is anticipated that local veterinary bodies will become involved.

A typical workshop schedule is as follows: Day 1. Seminar: theory, demonstrations, Q&A session. Participants i.e. veterinarians; veterinary assistants; government officials; representatives of local animal protection groups. Days 2-3. Practical spay/neutering sessions – numbers of vets for training are restricted depending on facilities for surgical procedures. However, additional days can be added if more vets apply for the training in each respective city. 

A parallel 2 day session is held for volunteers of local animal protection groups, covering the same subjects but at a basic level. Also discussion on planning a public education programme to promote spay/neutering and responsible pet ownership.

Day 4. Q&A session to clarify and reinforce key points.

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Achievements 2009-15:

• To date, 792 vets have been trained in theoretical spay/neuter techniques and 181vets trained in practical techniques. Please see Table below for more detailed information.

• At each session, potential trainers were identified with specific training ar-ranged.

• Publication of the Trainer Vet Guidelines in Chinese - a document providing guidelines and a structure for trainers certified by VBB to deliver comprehensive training sessions to other vets.

• Publication of the Trainee Vet Manual in Chinese (250+pages) - a compilation of veterinary reference materials, charts and procedures related to the skills and welfare standards required to conduct successful spay/neuter operations in a clinical setting. It also provides other useful resources that are related to general practice.

• Creation and dubbing of audio/visual materials such as online videos to facilitate veterinary knowledge.

•Additional veterinary information materials have been translated and distributed. The Beijing Veterinary Association expressed interest in using the materials as standard protocol for their members. •From 2013 the Chinese trainers led the workshops without attendance from VBB personnel. •All China Trainers are now using internationally accepted anaesthesia methods. •All China Trainers now have a much shorter post-op recovery period (reduced from 1 week to 2 days) •All China Trainers now do not dress recovering animals in full gowning during the post-op period. •All China Trainers can sterilise at approx. 8 weeks of age (previously 6 months +) •During 2009-2011, cat neutering in Shenzhen increased by 60% and cooperative re-lationships between veterinarians and animal protection organisations strengthened. •During 2013-14, the China Vet Team took initiative and continued training sessions without direct participation from VBB or ACTAsia.

Quotes from Trainers and Trainees:

2009: Qin Xiao Na, Director of CAWA said, “This news is fantastic. It is an essential step for us and other animal protection organisations in Beijing that are carrying out TNR. In the past, every time when we asked for use of absorbable sutures, which can help shorten recovery time to stitch the wound, we had to pay extra fees. There-fore, we are grateful to ACTAsia for organising this workshop which contributes to promoting Beijing government’s decisions on offering free sutures. It is not only good for animals but is helpful for us to cut down on the costs. ” 2010: We are very happy to work with VBB and ACTAsia to promote Chinese vets’ animal welfare concept. —Dr. Liu Lang. 2011: We’ve come to China to train Chinese veterinarians, hoping that all of us can help improve the animal wel-fare by contributing to animal medical care and play a role in promoting the animal protection. It is out of our love of animals and our responsibility and commitment of promoting animal pro-tection that we have come to China.And we hope to find more like-minded people to join us - Dr Chris Barton. 2013: Dr. Yin Zhijuan: ‘I have participated in ACTAsia veterinary training programs three times and I have learnt a lot. Through this activity, I know how VBB vets pay constant attention to ani-mal welfare and treat animals correctly during the treatment. I felt moved by their attitudes to animals. After joining the VBB

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Chinese team, I’ve been wishing to bring this program to my hometown so that more animals can enjoy the welfare and we can keep up with the rest of the world.’ 2014: Jiao Miao: ‘Every short gathering left happy memory in my mind. In a flash, 2014 witnesses the 6th anniversary of VBB entering into China. I’m glad to see that seeds of animal welfare took roots, sprouted, blossomed, yielded fruit and spread in China. And I’m delighted that I’m a part of helping in sharing surgical experience and practical work with my colleagues.’ Tang Feng, Secretary General of the Division of Small Animal Medicine Shanghai Asso-ciation of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, said that this was the first time the training session of our division attracted so many people who also took notes attentively.

Jia Fangkuo: ‘This training is essential because it rectifies many basic improper practices which were ignored be-fore.’ Zhao Kechun: ‘I am even worse than their assistants. At school there were many things teachers didn’t tell us. This is a really good opportunity. After I return, I will share with other colleagues every detail and step learnt. I totally agree with the idea of TNR. I hope that later, I can find some stray cats every week and help them to be neutered.’ Yu Tao: ‘I work in an epidemic prevention station for cats and dogs. Through this session, I find that you have a considerable, gracious and rational organisation. Since I have learned about new technology, I hope as working for the government, I can apply for a research project later so we can promote TNR.’ Fu Qiang: ‘This session showing the latest developments makes me see how far we fall behind. What we lack are standards, standards in both operation techniques and disinfec-tion and sterilisation. Also, I have learned the importance of teamwork and cooperation between physicians and assistants. A successful operation comprises good mindset, correct practice and teamwork.’ Hu Yuxi: ‘We have lost too many basic skills. It’s not right to pursue speed.’ Wang Quanyong: ‘Although I know about sterilisation indicators, I never buy one. In fact, I was misled by the perception that animals were often highly resistant so there was no need to sterilise. Therefore infection may occur when animals do not have strong antibodies. This informative course benefits us a lot. I hope I can make a good preparation next time.’

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Overview 2009-15 Vets TrainedVBB China Trainers Animals

Theory Practical Theory Practical Dogs Cats

2009 Shenzhen 51 40 5 69

2009 Beijing 32 16 4 18

2010 Shenzhen 110 0 1 21

2010 Beijing 69 36 0 61

2011 Dalian 50 0

2012 Guangzhou 90 8 14

2012 Beijing 50 12

2012 Dalian 30 6

2013 Nanning 50 10 14

2014 Dongguan 50 16 24

2014 Shanghai 70 14 23

2014 Beijing 60 11 10

2015 Shenzhen 40 0

2015 Xi’an 40 12

Sub Totals 492 112 300 69 20 244

Total vets trained btw 2009-2015

492 300

Total Trained 792

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Whilst ACTAsia and VBB are encouraged and feel positive about the progress of the programme, it is recognised that the Chinese trainers need further monitoring and motivating to meet high standards for example in the provi-sion of pre/post operative care for the animals; suitable cages in quiet se-cure areas; approved drugs and materials available is often overlooked. Sometimes when operating, either important steps are left out of the pro-cess or a flippant attitude prevails. Generally the attitude to animal wel-fare is of less interest to the Chinese trainers than the technical aspects, so we accept that widespread positive change with regard to welfare is likely to be a slow process.

2015 Assessment Visit:

As a result of the above, in 2015 an assessment visit was made by Dr. Elaine Ong and her veterinary nurse to the trainers’ clin-ics in China, to establish whether the veterinarians have incor-porated what they have learned into their regular clinical prac-tices. From 28 August - 8 September, 6 of the VBB approved trainers and their clinic facilities were assessed. A short seminar was held for approx 40 vets in Shenzhen who help NGOs by of-fering low cost or free neutering services. A Q&A session fol-lowed the seminar. 

Why this is a Pioneer Project:

Comments from vets trained by ACTAsia/VBB and personnel from Beijing Small Animal Association expressed frus-trations and concerns with foreign training programme contents as generally the content is pitched way above their understanding. They request a structured training programme which needs a solid foundation as at present they have limited knowledge and lack the necessary skills on which to build. They do of course know of advances in e.g. neurology, orthopaedics, cardiology etc. but such information is currently of no use to them, as there are large gaps in their knowledge, understanding and practice through the ‘missing steps’ in their veterinary educa-tion.

ACTAsia/VBB’s vet training course serves to fill the ‘missing steps’ and to provide the necessary foundations for progress.

Conclusion:

It is not possible in this short paper to highlight the enormous social challenges facing China at the present time and it is difficult for those of us living in other countries to understand the complexities which affect the lives of individuals. Therefore it is not surprising that so many well intentioned international human, animal and en-vironmental programmes exported to China, fail to justify the ef-forts and finance applied.

ACTAsia’s aim is not to judge or condemn, but to work in harmony and co-operation with the veterinary profession in China. We are working to provide a base for vets in China, on which they can build their knowledge and expertise, and therefore benefit from other international opportunities. Currently through our research and pioneering work with Dr. Elaine Ong, we consider this approach will enable our combined efforts to be sustainable in the long-term.

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Acknowledgements

Organisers: ACTAsia, VBB, SZCat, CAWA, BJSAVA, Diagnosis and treatment society, subsidiary to Dongguan Association of Animal & Veterinary Sciences, THINKING ADOPTION, Diagnosis and treatment society, subsidiary to Shanghai Association of Animal & Veterinary Sciences, TACN,

Co-Organisers: Shenzhen pet hospital, President of the Federation, Guangdong Pet Industry Association, Xijiao Animal Clinic, Ruipeng Pet Hospital, Shenzhen Helida Agricultural Science & Technology Co., Ltd, BJSAVA, The western suburbs of Beijing Animal Hospital, Shenzhen Rui Peng pet medical service agency, Dalian World Forum, Capital Animal Wel-fare Association (CAWA), Dalian pet forum www.pet100.cn, Guangzhou Small Animal Veterinary Association www.gzcat.org, Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Station of Beijing Municipal Bureau of Agriculture (www.bjxsh.-com), Beijing Animal Hospital, Beijing Long An Animal Hospital, Dalian Dog Management Office, Guangxi Pet Vet-erinary Association, Nanning Mi Bao Animal Hospital, Shenzhen Cat Net, Dongguan Stray Cat Salvation Volunteer Team, Xi’an Small Animal Diagnosis and Treatment Industry Association, Clinical teaching hospital of Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Xi’an Bangtai Animal Hospital, Xi’an PET Animal Hospital

Sponsors: Naturewatch, Humane Society International, ACTAsia, VBB, Animal husbandry and veterinary station of Beijing Municipal Bureau of Agriculture, CAWA, HSI, One Voice for Animals, International Fund for Cat Welfare(IFCW) www.ifcw.net, Diamond Valley Veterinary Hospital, Box Hill Veterinary Hospital, Ms Julian Chen, International Fund for Cat Welfare (IFCW), www.ifcw.net, Humane Society International, www.hsus.org/his, La Fondation Brigitte Bardot, www.fondationbrigittebardot.fr, Shenzhen Ka Aite Public Cultural Transmission Institute, Guangzhou Hongtailang Bioscience Corporation, Dongguan Kubailai Pet Investment and Development Company Ltd, Bai’er (Sichuan) animal care Co. Ltd, Shuoteng (Shanghai) animal care Co.Ltd, Shanghai Gangrui pet Co.Ltd, Shanghai Yulan pet Co.Ltd, School of agriculture, SJTU, Shanghai Songjiang Agricultural College, Zhumengyuan, Shanghai Beikang pet hospital, Beijing Zhonglian Animal Co. Ltd, Lan (Hong Kong) Science and Technology Co. Ltd, The Liang Family Trust of Melbourne, Xiuzheng Pharmaceutical Group, Xi’an Merlot Trading Company, Shanghai Hanwei Biological Pharmaceutical Science and Technology Co.Ltd, China Combine Animal Care Co.Ltd, Zoetis (Shanghai) Enterprise Management Co.Ltd, Xi’an Ying Xi Biological Co.Ltd, Misha Foundation from The Cat Clinic in Australia and Mrs. Julian Chen from Shenzhen, Dr Chinny Krishna from Blue Cross of India, Weihai Wego Fusen Medical Co.Ltd, Dr Shauna O’ Meara (Pet-Informed), Dr Ingwersen (WSAVA), all volunteers and translators.

Participants: Candor Pet Hospital, Lucky Cats, Cool Pet, SZCat, Shenzhen stray dog shelter, Beautiful new world, AAC China, Beijing Meilian Zhonghe Puppytown Animal Hospital, Beijing Meilian Zhonghe Banlv Animal Hospital, Beijing Long An Animal Hospital, Beijing Jun Jie Animal Hospital, Dalian Bo Ai Animal Hospital, Shenzhen Ruipeng Pet Hospital, Guangzhou Haizhu Ruipeng Pet Hospital, Nanning Feral Cat BBS, TNRing team, Beijing Rongan animal clinic, Bei-jing Chongzeyuan animal clinic, Beijing Wanmei animal clinic, Beijing Tangmulong animal clinic, Beijing Ming’anx-ing animal clinic, Long An Animal Clinic, Lucky Dogs & Cats Pet Clinic, Liuzhou Xiao Li Pet Hospital, Nanning A Rong Pet Hospital, Shenzhen Ren He Pet Hospital, Shenzhen Huanan Pet Hospital, Shenzhen Pet Medical Association, Xi’an Red Pomegranate

Lecturers: Dr. Elaine Ong, Dr. Beth McGennisken, Ms Ann Letch, Ms Robyn Ireland, Dr. Chris Barton, Dr. Richard Gowan, Dr. Charmaine Tham, Ms Carolyn Maguire, Mr Jimmy Pa, Ms Elaine Dion, Ms Ann Rekin, Dr. Wang Ruoying, Dr. Wu Zhongheng, Dr. Zhang Zicong.

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Appendix - Annual Training Details

Shenzhen & Beijing

April-May, 2009

In 2008, after investigating and visiting Shenzhen and Beijing, ACTAsia found that animal welfare had not been given priority in the veterinary medical field in mainland China. Worse still, it was not taken into account at all in

many cases. Therefore, as the first step to improving • China’s animal welfare situation, the following programme was organised:Introduce humane fixation of animals,

advanced surgery techniques and better postoperative care

• Concrete the relationship between animal protection groups and veterinarians

• Enhance vet understanding of animal welfare and the necessity for sterilising animals

A group of four Australian VBB veterinarians and nurses communicated with veterinarians in Shenzhen, Beijing,

Changsha, Jinan and other cities during this programme, and trained them on sterilisation techniques for cats and

dogs. Meanwhile, they tried their best to provide support and suggestions during and even following the pro-

gramme.

Chinese veterinarians prefer to use mid-line incision to sterilise female animals, and they need to perform it after the animals are 6 months of age. The mission of VBB is to teach these veterinarians how to perform surgical steril-

isation by bilateral ovariectomy and early-age sterilisation (starting from over 8 weeks of age). Bilateral ovariec-tomy is conducive to the program of population control of stray animals, because it is safer and faster in terms of

wound healing and timing of release for the animals that need to be released. During this programme, veterinari-

ans focused on the sterilisation of cats, and performed a few surgical sterilisation for dogs as demonstration. The programme was well-received by all participants.

Achievements & Feedback The Shenzhen programme was held from April 27th to May 3rd.

After the workshop, the average monthly increase of sterilised cats in SZCat was over 60% and the number of pet clinics that offer free sterilisation in Shenzhen increased by more than 40%.

The Beijing programme was held from May 4th to May 7th, 2009.

Trainees replacing non-absorbable sutures with absorbable ones for external use. Demonstration of how to avoid wrapping animals in surgical gowns during post-operative care. After the surgery, cats normally used to stay in hospital for five to seven days, which was regarded as the shortest recovery time. However, now animal protec-tion organisations have cut it down to 2-3 days. Zeng Li, the founder and leader of Luckycats said, “The workshop helped us enhance veterinarian skills and improve the efficiency of TNP through the side incision technique.”

Before the training, Chinese animal protection organisations mostly used tattoos (but with no individual numerical marks) or removed a concave part of the ear for identification. During the training, all neutered cats were ear (the left) tipped which is an internationally recognised method of identification recommended by Alley Cat Allies.

Attention from related administrative departments of the Beijing government: The head of AHVCS visited our pro-

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gramme and expressed interest in programmes like ACTAsia’s efforts in offering vets selected by AHVCS. AHVCS

decided to provide free training for clinics that conduct spay/neuter surgeries.

Shenzhen，Beijing July - August 2010

Shenzhen: selecting several trainees who received the 2009 training, to receive further study in techniques and

teaching skills. They were expected to be members of the China Trainer team.

Beijing: focus on vet neutering techniques and animal welfare exchange training, offering training program for

vets appointed by Beijing Animal Husbandry &. Veterinary Station (subordinated to Beijing Agricultural Bureau).

Achievements & Feedback

Workshops in Shenzhen were held on 26th-27th July, 2010. Workshops in Beijing were held on 30h July-7th August, 2010.

Apart from the surgical training, the veterinary expert team also offered a three-hour special session for volun-teers from 6 local animal protection organisations. All training manuals and teaching materials have been up-

loaded to ACTAsia’s website for future referral.

Group consultation on animal illness: Dr. Gowan diagnosed and treated cats brought by vets and animal protection

organisations. 34 special cases were diagnosed and treated by Dr. Gowan. In Shenzhen, Dr. Barton and Dr. Gowan

conducted a sophisticated surgery for a cat badly injured in an accident.

Chinese vet animal welfare and ABC-AR promotion training program Before the 2010 Training Program ACTAsia signed a training agreement with 7 Chinese vets. ACTAsia together with

VBB held a three-day workshop in Shenzhen in 2010, aimed at intensive training and practical operations. Then they attended Beijing workshop and taught and set examples for the trainers. Trained vets will be certificated as

vet animal welfare trainer by VBB when they pass VBB’s evaluation.

Health examination and immunity: animals all received health exams, biocidal treatment and rabies vaccination.

Apart from the workshop, we provided training manuals: the criteria content included agreements of surgery,

anaesthesia, analgesia and anaesthesia monitoring. We hope the basic criteria will lay a foundation for the ABC-AR program. The criteria are a result of the combination of animal welfare and veterinary technology. Implementa-

tion of the criteria will improve veterinary animal welfare and be recognised and supported by pet owners and animal-lover. Although we cooperated with government authorities and won their support, China’s limit on speci-

fied drugs and equipment still posed a challenge to the program.

The implementation of basic criteria will be effective in humane population control of stray animals. Vet soci-

eties, agricultural bureau and animal husbandry and veterinary administration should oversee and enforce the criteria to standardise local animal hospitals.

Shenzhen, Beijing, Dalian October 2011

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A review of the ‘train the trainers’ and ‘cure with care’ program and development of training standards for vets in China. Consolidating the cooperation with Beijing Small Animal Veterinary Association, and developing the “train the trainers” program further. The 2011 annual training focused on assessing the “train the trainer” program through evaluating the practice of seven selected and trained China vets. Visits of the animal hospitals in Beijing, Shenzhen and Dalian and gaining knowledge about the background of Chi-nese veterinarians. A better understanding of the operation standards, availability and supply of drugs and work-ing conditions of Chinese veterinary clinics and hospitals was beneficial to improving the project.

Achievements & Feedback We discussed about the significance of animal welfare in clinical veterinary practice with about twenty Shenzhen participants of the training from the previous two years, and discussed in depth with selected trainers to compre-

hend their understanding of the project.

In Beijing, under the guidance of VBB lecturers, selected trainers, having been trained for two years, coached in lateral incision sterilisation operation for dogs conducted by two Beijing veterinarians. Afterward, they went to

Dalian to participate in the practical training for four Dalian veterinarians and four veterinary assistants. After three-year training, selected trainers have improved their skills and shown more responsibility towards animal

welfare in China. We visited six Shenzhen clinics and four Beijing clinics for assessment. It’s important for VBB trainers to experi-

ence the significance of current working conditions and resources of Chinese veterinarians. We have evaluated their standards of patients care and nursing.

Promotion of ABC-AR Project:

Discussions with representatives from Beijing Animal Husbandry &Veterinary station, Beijing Small Animal Veteri-

nary Association, Shenzhen Institute for Animals, Dalian kennel department, Dalian epidemic prevention station, Dalian Municipal Centre for Disease Control & Prevention, Dalian Veterinary Station and participation in The 2nd

Chinese Veterinary Conference. Based on the principles of WHO and FAO, combined the success and failures of India, Indonesia, Africa and other countries, we widely introduced great benefits of ABC-AR project for govern-

ments and community sanitation and for veterinarians to fulfil their social responsibilities.

Promotion of Being A Responsible Carer Urban Animal Management is an important issue for local governments. Responsible animal carers help to create a

good pet keeping environment, and manage the stray animal population. To promote being a responsible carer, we

need education. In terms of animal management, the promotion of sterilisation coupons for stray animals in Bei-jing is worth being followed by others. At the same time, capture, temporary care and adoption, animal welfare

guidelines should be provided and animal protection laws would also be good. VBB and ACTAsia provided Beijing and Dalian government departments with references from countries like the UK,

Australia (relevant regulations of cats and dogs in England, a copy of the animal welfare legislation from Victoria, Australia, principles of Being A Responsible Carer, euthanasia policy, etc.)

Development of China Veterinary Standards Since 2009, we have adjusted continually based on the current situation of animal medicine and equipment

and expected that trainees endeavour to improve veterinary medicine in China and source certain equipment.

The guidelines created include:

● Operation skills

● Standard of Anaesthesia

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● Standard of pain-killing

● Standard of controlling animals

● Standard of patients care

● Standard of trainers hospitals

Guangzhou, Beijing, Dalian August 2012

Guangzhou 13th - 15th August Beijing 17th - 21st August Dalian 23rd - 25th August

Promoting ABC-AR Teaching Animal Welfare Further developments in Veterinary Medicine

Nanning November 2013

Trainee Feedback

◇ They have learnt a lot and changed various habits used during operations that compromised animal welfare as well as the results of their work.

◇ As they encountered different circumstances, they realised the importance of human monitoring even in ad-dition to using machine monitors.

◇ Members of VBB China team, deserve admiration for their serious attitude

Dongguan, Beijing & Shanghai March, July and January 2014

Guest speaker Dr. Wu Zhongheng, one of the first batch of Practice veterinarian acknowledged by Chinese agricultural department(A012010440066), Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, graduated from School of Veteri-nary Medicine, SCAU, member of AOVET, trainer of SAO, vice executive secretary of Guangzhou Animal Healthcare Industry Association, specialized in Orthopedics and Surgery. His main research field is Small ani-mal imaging diagnosis. He also studies small animal gastrointestinal endoscopy, and does well in small animal surgical operation and orthopedics, especially Orthopedics external fixation support operation. He’s one of doctors who first apply Orthopedics external fixation support in pet operation in a large-scale. He has expe-rience in difficult miscellaneous disease diagnosis and dentistry.

ABC-AR information. Animal Welfare information. Training in Flank spay surgical procedure.

Trainees’ Feedbacks During the theory lectures, we reviewed anaesthetic procedures and shared experience on multiple anaesthetic

protocols and clinical problems. We further realised that pain management is not only a necessity for animal wel-

fare, but an important link to avoiding post operative infection.

Achievements

During the training, hands-on anaesthesia was conducted under the protocol that combines the sedation Dexdomi-

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tor® (Pfizer) and the anaesthetic Zoletil (Virbac) with the inhalation anaesthetic agent isofluorane. This protocol

has been in common use now in most animal clinics in Beijing. It is safer and a little bit more expensive, but is still affordable for local animal protection organisations compared with 846 or Xylazine.

Assessment of VBB China Trainers August - September 2015

During the 2 weeks (28th Aug. – 8th Sep.), a total of 6 out of the 7 VBB China trainers and their clinics were as-sessed. As you will see in Annex 2, we visited vets in the cities of Beijing, Changsha, Liuzhou, Nanning and Shen-zhen. Only Dr. Jiao was assessed in another veterinarian’s clinic as his own is currently under construction. Dr. Song now works for Boehringer Ingelheim and accompanied us on most of the trip helping with translations and organisational aspects.

Each clinic visit and trainer assessment consisted of VBB:

• (am) observing 2 surgeries (cat and dog) and any pre- and post-op procedures and having a tour of the clinic facilities to assess aspects such as the wound disinfection, anaesthetic monitoring, surgical tech-nique, the welfare standards of the clinic facilities and more.

• (pm) feedback given to the staff and a short presentation with tips and tricks for vets and their assistants was offered as an incentive for them.

In the afternoon, feedback was given to the vets and their assistants, questions were answered and then Dr. Ong and Ms. Ireland offered some information on animal handling, how to deal with complications under anaesthetic, correct Dr. and patient disinfection and more. In the clinic at Nanning, additional veterinarians (approx. 14) from the area also came to see Dr. Ong’s afternoon presentation and learn from her tips and tricks.

During our stay in Shenzhen, a short seminar was held for vets in Shenzhen who work with animal protection NGOs offering them low cost or free neutering. Approx. 40 vets saw Dr. Ong’s presentation and there was high participa-tion in the Q&As that followed.

Achievements & Feedback

All vets’ surgical skills had greatly improved with everyone using correct anaesthetics as well as pain relief (this was not the case in the past). Furthermore, in all clinics staff were very caring of the animals. VBB noticed some issues with anaesthetic monitoring, hand and patient scrubbing, housing facilities and handling– issues mainly with the vet assistants not being adequately trained.

ACTAsia and VBB proceeded to re-certify the China Trainers and in 2016 will be introducing an accreditation scheme with 4 levels for the Trainers to pursue: Advanced Trainer, Trainer, Trial Trainer and Potential Trainer.

Xi’an November 2015

1) Pubic class training: Animal welfare and animal medical development;

Anaesthesia technique, pain management, animal restraint technique, aseptic technique, etc. Sharing of oph-

thalmology treatment case.

2) Veterinary clinical special training class in Chinese animal welfare and ABC-AR plan of Veterinary Beyond Bor-

ders; Standard process of the lateral cutting sterilisation operation and the basic principle of animal welfare.