Cytology should form an essential part of the investigation of every case of otitis externa. During busy veterinary clinics it is sometimes difficult for the veterinary surgeon to take cytological samples and examine them effectively within the time constraints imposed by a packed appointment list. Nurses therefore, as part of the vet led team, can help in the collection of cytology samples, preparation of samples as well as the examination and reporting of their findings.

Cytological findings allow the veterinarian to make informed decisions about the type of therapy that is going to be most suitable to manage the case. Whilst the precise identification of otic pathogens can be difficult in some cases, a basic knowledge of the morphology of the different bacteria and yeast can help decision making when it comes to the use of specific cleaners, empirical antibacterial or antimycotic therapy or whether there is a need for the dog to be admitted for further investigation under general anaesthesia. This workshop will start with a basic introduction to cytology including how to identify the most important cell types and pathogens involved in otitis and will then run through a series of interactive cases.

Learning objectives - by the end of this workshop participants should be comfortable in identifying different otic pathogens and cell types and have an appreciation of the types of therapy that may be suitable for each type of clinical presentation

Dr Susan Paterson, Veterinary Dermatology Specialist , Virtual Vet Derms

Increased importation of pets in the face of expanding global parasite distributions is increasing the risk of pets infected with exotic parasites entering the UK. Exotic ticks and tick-borne pathogens are of particular importance, both to the individual patient but also in terms of potential establishment in the UK. Recent years have seen endemic foci of Babesia canis and tick-borne encephalitis virus establish in Essex and the Thetford Forest respectively. Rhipichehalus sanguineus ticks present on imported pets can establish infestations in centrally heated homes, potentially exposing people to zoonotic pathogens such as Rickettsia conorii (the cause of Mediterranean spotted fever). Some pathogens such as Ehrliciha canis have long incubation periods with the potential for life threatening chronic disease to develop in carrier dogs.  Rapid recognition of clinical signs associated with tick-borne pathogens, effective use of preventative treatments and screening tests in imported dogs are vital. This is both to improve prognostic outcomes for infected dogs and limit parasite spread and zoonotic risk. Nurses play a vital role in routine health checks, post travel clinics, flea and parasite clinics in recognising relevant clinical signs and detecting ticks, while making sure adequate tick preventative strategies are in place. This workshop will discuss the tick and tick-borne pathogens of current concern, relevant clinical signs and the role of blood smears in early parasite detection.   Tick prevention method including tick detection and removal will also be discussed.

Dr Ian Wright, Veterinary Surgeon, The Mount Vet Practice

Heart disease is amongst the top ten most common causes of feline death. Yet despite this, diagnosing and treating feline cardiomyopathy, is very challenging for veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses. Many cats present with congestive heart failure, or aortic thromboembolism or even sudden cardiac death as the first presenting sign. Guidelines are currently being published to help veterinary surgeons classify, diagnose and manage feline heart disease. This new understanding and consensus of what can be a difficult and challenging subject will be discussed, so that the veterinary nurse can apply the latest evidence-based nursing to their practice. The session will cover the prevalence and aetiology of feline cardiomyopathies, new terminology and classification systems specifically designed for cats, relevance and efficacy of diagnostic testing, treatment and nursing care. The session will be fully interactive and suitable for all levels of knowledge.

Charlotte Pace, Locum Veterinary Nurse and Visiting Lecturer , College of Animal Welfare