BSAVA PetSavers has partnered with IDEXX Animana, a leading provider of practice management software, to integrate the Ageing Canine Toolkit into the UK release of IDEXX Animana’s Veterinary Content Cloud.
This collaboration aims to enhance the accessibility of the toolkit to veterinary professionals and senior dog owners across the UK, providing essential resources for the care of ageing dogs.
The Ageing Canine Toolkit was developed following a comprehensive research project funded by BSAVA PetSavers at the University of Liverpool. The research focused on understanding the experiences and challenges faced by both veterinary professionals and dog owners in caring for senior dogs. The study employed a mixed-methods approach, gathering insights that highlighted the difficulties owners face in distinguishing between normal signs of ageing and potential health issues that may require veterinary intervention.
One of the key outcomes of the research was the development of a traffic light colour-coded checklist. This checklist is designed to help dog owners identify changes in their pets that may need veterinary attention, facilitating more informed discussions during veterinary consultations.
Toolkit Contents and Accessibility
The Ageing Canine Toolkit includes a leaflet and a poster designed for use in veterinary practice waiting rooms. The leaflet provides information on common health problems affecting ageing dogs, while the checklist offers a practical tool for owners to regularly monitor their dog’s health. These resources are intended to empower owners with the knowledge to better manage their dog’s health as they age.
Sarah Williams, Fundraising and Grants Awarding Manager for BSAVA PetSavers, expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership: “We are really pleased to be partnering with IDEXX Animana to expand the reach of the Ageing Canine Toolkit. We hope that the toolkit can contribute to and aid conversations with senior dog owners and ultimately improve the health and welfare of senior dogs across the UK.”
Carolina Berazay, General Manager at IDEXX Animana, echoed this sentiment: “With several team members having firsthand experience from working in veterinary practices, IDEXX Animana has a deep understanding of the critical role that effective communication with pet owners plays. We recognise the importance of providing context and insights to pet owners that can support them in ensuring the health and well-being of their ageing pets. IDEXX is committed to advancing animal welfare through various initiatives, including our partnership with the BSAVA.”
Both the leaflet and the accompanying poster are available free of charge. Digital versions can be downloaded from the BSAVA Library.
