The Vet Chat NZ

In this episode, Matt and Katrina discuss how vets are ideally placed to be consultants/advisors, in a world where farms have more information and data than ever.  They talk about what a consultant really does and how rewarding it can be, and give tips on how to get started and develop your skills - below are details of a new course to help vets with this.  Katrina also shares some insights from her Kellogg Project on farmer-vet advisory relationships as part of her 2024 Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year prize, including how much farmers really value their vet relationships.      Katrina's email: KRoberts@anexafvc.co.nz Rural Partnership Flier Kellogg Partnership Report

On this episode of The Vet Chat NZ your host Sue Campbell, is joined by Angela McEwan to discuss how to Never Waste a Good Crisis- considering where we find ourselves with cattle parasite resistance in New Zealand. Angela openly discusses her experience and challenges of helping PAMU farms address triple drench resistance in cattle. From how we can reframe the thought process from one of fear to one of opportunity in how we can grow cattle better and faster, Ange shares her experience and her approach for why addressing drench resistance is a must. With practical considerations to take away, and discussion around how vets and other experts can help, there is something for everyone in this episode. The opportunity for improving how we grow our young stock is immense, so come and have a listen to Ange's experience with how people's attitude, monitoring and farm management practices changed over time to improve parasite resistance.

In this episode of The Vet Chat NZ, Matt is joined by Ryan Luckman and Grace Boardman to discuss DAGI, the app that helps farmers manage parasite burdens and drench resistance. They explain how refugia and larval avoidance are the key to understanding the risks for every paddock and mob on the farm. Learn what possessed a dairy vet to develop an app for sheep farmers, the benefits for both farmers and vets, and how to enrol your farmers in the launch phase. Links for further information discussed in the episode are below: Webinar link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ws3DHwVGyEk Email: info.dagi.nz@gmail.com Website: https://www.dagi.nz Facebook: DAGI Instagram: @dagi.nz Youtube: @DAGIDrenchGrazingIntegration

This episode of The Vet Chat NZ features a new host, Sue Campbell, who is covering for Ellen while she is on maternity leave. Sue talks with Mike Shallcrass, Fonterra's Veterinary Programme Manager, about why efficiency is so critical for New Zealand's dairy industry. From improving reproductive performance and reducing disease, to harnessing accurate data and improving genetic merit, Mike shares practical ways vets can help farmers to improve efficiency and concurrently reduce emissions. Learn how market demands, greenhouse gas targets, and the “co-operative difference” are shaping the future of dairy — and why vets are perfectly placed to lead the change on farm. Packed with actionable insights, this is a must-listen for veterinary professionals wanting to stay ahead in an evolving industry.

In this episode, host Ellen Eyre is joined by Dr. Laura Schwerdtfeger, veterinarian and founder of The Lifestyle Vet, to explore the rising phenomenon of lifestyle blocks across New Zealand and the unique challenges and opportunities they present for veterinary professionals. The conversation dives into the shift in owner expectations, where animals on lifestyle blocks are increasingly treated as pets, leading to a demand for more personalised and higher-quality veterinary care. Dr. Schwerdtfeger shares practical insights for veterinarians heading out to lifestyle block calls—from what to pack in the truck to how to manage safety and communication on varied properties. The episode also covers essential clinical considerations, parasite resistance, the importance of biosecurity, and the increasing need for emergency preparedness in light of climate events. Whether you're new to lifestyle block medicine or looking to refine your approach, this discussion offers grounded, actionable tips to build confidence and improve care in this growing sector.

In this episode, host Ellen Eyre sits down with Dr Anne Ridler (Massey University) to explore her recently published study of ewe culling and mortality across 34 commercial sheep flocks in New Zealand. During this chat, Anne highlights the various reasons why, on average, nearly 11 percent of ewes put to the ram never make it to docking—and why another 4 percent present wet-dry. Possibly one of the most eye‑opening observations is the variation between farms, indicating that flock-specific insights and interventions are required in order to reduce ewe culling and mortality.  Drawing on first‑hand interviews with farmers and on‑farm culling observations, Anne shares practical advice on culling and who should be making these decisions. You’ll learn why consistent body condition scoring (even by eye after shearing), drafting light ewes early and focusing on nutrition can reduce mortality and improve your flock's efficiency. Whether you’re a vet passionate about productivity or a sheep farmer keen to lift efficiency, this episode gives you the tools to answer one big question: where do all the ewes go? Udder palpation video mentioned during the episode: https://beeflambnz.com/knowledge-hub/video/examining-ewes-udders-identify-possible-problems

Thinking of taking your veterinary career overseas but not sure where to start? In this episode of The Vet Chat NZ, host Ellen Eyre chats with Dr. Tarryn Walker, a Kiwi vet fresh from her 3 year OE adventure, to unpack everything you need to know about working abroad. From navigating the visa process and securing a job to finding accommodation and adjusting to life in a new country, Tarryn shares first hand insights, practical advice, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you're a recent graduate considering an OE or a vet looking for a change, this episode will help you take the leap with confidence. Tune in for a fun and informative chat that might just inspire your next big move!

In this episode of The Vet Chat NZ, we’re joined by Dr. Krispin Kannan, a leader in cow wearable technology and data integration, based in Waikato NZ. Together with host Ellen Eyre, they explore how wearable technology is revolutionising veterinary practice at every level—from individual cow health monitoring to herd-wide insights and high-level consultancy. Dr. Kannan shares practical tips and real-world examples to help veterinarians leverage this technology to improve animal health, boost farm productivity, and build stronger client relationships. Whether you’re new to wearables or looking to deepen your expertise, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you stay at the forefront of bovine care.

In this episode, we dive into Johne’s disease, a persistent challenge in dairy herds which can be costly to both the farms bottom line, as well as its devastating impact on animal health. Virbac technical veterinarian Ellen Eyre is joined by LIC veterinary epidemiologist Kara Dawson and scientist Rebecca White, as they break down the latest research from LIC milk testing as well as the theory around minimising the impact of Johne's disease in dairy herds. Together, they discuss advancements in milk testing, insights from years of data, and strategies for disease management that drive both animal health and economic resilience. Later, fourth-generation dairy farmer Brendon O’Leary offers a practical look at how these tools work on the ground, giving vets and farmers alike real-world advice on implementing effective practices.   To contact Kara or Rebecca: Kara.dawson@lic.co.nz Rebecca.white@lic.co.nz

Matt and Greg have both been back at the World Buiatrics Congress, this time in Cancun, Mexico.  There are more interesting and sometimes quirky studies to share, and even a few unique Mexican experiences! Find out what a vampiricide is, how best to detect Johne's in a barn system or how much copper injections elevate liver levels, among other things. ACVM Registration Nos. A010028 and A009374.

Dr Jennifer Dauth joins Sumari to chat about her fascination with reproduction, the driving force for her to become a member at ANZCVS (Australian & New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists). Desexing in dogs is not a one size fits all conversation. New research, more informed owners, the changing status of the dog in the household and alternative medical options all contribute to vets having to reconsider their protocols. Jennifer talks about the pros and cons of desexing, the various medical and surgical options available, as well as striking a balance with what is  best for the individual dog, while addressing the owners’ needs. Urfer SR, Kaeberlein M. Desexing Dogs: A Review of the Current Literature. Animals (Basel). 2019 Dec 5;9(12):1086. doi: 10.3390/ani9121086. PMID: 31817504; PMCID: PMC6940997. Howe, Lisa. (2015). Current perspectives on the optimal age to spay/castrate dogs and cats. Veterinary Medicine: Research and Reports. 2015. 171. 10.2147/VMRR.S53264. Beauvais W, Cardwell JM, Brodbelt DC. The effect of neutering on the risk of mammary tumours in dogs – a systematic review. J Small Anim Pract. 2012;53:314–322. Holt PE. Urinary incontinence in the bitch due to sphincter mechanism incompetence: prevalence in referred dogs and retrospective analysis of sixty cases. J Small Anim Pract. 1985;26(4):181–190. Torres de la Riva G, Hart BL, Farver TB, et al. Neutering dogs: effects on joint disorders and cancers in golden retrievers. PLoS One. 2013;8:e55937. Client handout: https://www.vss.net.au/desexing-your-dog.html Hart BL, Hart LA, Thigpen AP, Willits NH. Assisting Decision-Making on Age of Neutering for 35 Breeds of Dogs: Associated Joint Disorders, Cancers, and Urinary Incontinence. Front Vet Sci. 2020 Jul 7;7:388. doi: 10.3389/fvets.2020.00388. PMID: 32733924; PMCID: PMC7359819.

Host turns guest as Matt Wells, Technical Services Manager at Virbac NZ, joins the Vet Chat this week and shares his wisdom on the diagnosis and closed reduction of dislocated hips in cattle. During his 13 years in clinical practice, he was able to develop his skills in this area and has presented at the NZVA conference, and still regularly talks on dislocated hips to recent graduates at the Supergrad Day. Matt shares tips and tricks that have helped him in the past, as well as resources he has created that have helped others be successful in their attempts. Closed reduction of dislocated hips: Getting the clunk Dislocated hips: Open reduction Dislocated Hips - Diagnosis & Reduction

Winston is a veterinary epidemiologist who has recently set up EpiVets Ltd in collaboration with colleagues Emma Cuttance and Greg Chambers. Winston joins Ellen to discuss lameness in dairy cows in New Zealand, and offers practical advice which stems from the extensive research he has done whilst completing his PhD. The episode includes lots of tips to help clinicians promote early identification on farms, streamline treatment and management of lame cows, and also reiterates that we are doing well in NZ in terms of prevalence and recovery rates.

Laurinda Oliver is a specialist equine surgeon and intern coordinator at Waikato Equine Veterinary Centre.  She and Matt discuss how a non-equine vet can improve the care of horses and reduce their stress levels by having clear plans for treatment, referral and even euthanasia. They focus on colic and wounds, but also cover foalings, eye conditions, acute lameness and sick foals.   Equine Emergencies Textbook Haygard Mobile Formulary Liphook Equine Hospital Lab BEVA Apps

Martin Earles shares great recommendations for handling, examining, and treating rabbits. From the ideal combination of male and female rabbits in a household to performing an oral examination, antibiotics that are safe, best desexing practices, and general husbandry tips to boost the confidence of vets when they encounter rabbits in-clinic.

Katie Denholm's research on colostrum and calf health during her time in NZ will be familiar to many vets. She is now completing her PhD while teaching at Glasgow University, and joins Matt to discuss what we now know about the full effects of getting colostrum wrong, and what to focus on to improve calf health. They cover the best practice of ideal timing and volumes, storage, and assessing passive transfer, and include the latest research and updates.

Exotic animal diseases are a threat to New Zealand’s farms and economy. While FMD is the most obvious concern, there are others on the radar for Biosecurity New Zealand. Mark Eames is a Biosecurity New Zealand Incursion Investigator. He joins Matt to discuss what vets should be looking out for, how we can monitor animals for these diseases, and what the process looks like for a practitioner if they report something unusual. 

In this episode of The Vet Chat, Sumari Potgieter talks to Jordana Whyte, manager of the trust that runs the Wildlife Hospital Dunedin. They discuss the responsibilities of the veterinarian, the public, and the Department of Conservation (DOC), and how various roles work together to ensure the best outcome for the patient. Helpful resources for vets for bird and bat care are provided by the New Zealand Vet Association and are referenced in this talk. Vets can access the full documents on the NZVA website. For anyone interested in further reading, training and support, this list of references will be useful: Available to all NZVA members, the Avian and Wildlife health guidelines, policy, and resources can be found here. This includes bat care advice for first responders and vets, as well as advice for managing emaciated seabirds. Contact DOC (0800 DOC HOT) or rehabilitation facilities identified through the Wildlife Rehabilitation Network — WReNNZ — to arrange for transfer to longer-term care as soon as the patient is stabilised, or to seek additional advice/guidance. Find out which NZ birds are threatened, listen to bird song, and learn about birds on the DOC website.   A digital encyclopaedia of NZ birds can be found here. Call the Department of Conservation emergency hotline 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468) immediately if you see anyone catching, harming, or killing native wildlife. DOC resources on bats. Information on lead poisoning, psittacine beak and feather disease, and avian influenza. The Wildlife Hospital Dunedin can be contacted through Jordana Whyte at 021735211 or info@wildlifehospitaldunedin.org.nz

We've made significant progress at reducing antibiotic DCT in New Zealand dairy herds, albeit slower than was initially hoped. Scott McDougall and Matt discuss the current situation in 2023 and the likely future of antimicrobial use. They cover adverse events and how we've learned to minimise these, how much AMR we already have, how well-managed selective DCT compares with blanket DCT, and the updated best practice recommendations for cow selection and teat sealant administration in NZ conditions.   Links for further reading below. Vet Council Statement on Authorisation of DCT NZVA drying off resources SmartSamm Technote 14 

Greg Chambers, an Epidemiologist at EpiVets, and Matt Wells were two of the thousands of attendees at the recent World Buiatrics Congress in Madrid. They share some of their highlights of the week from a New Zealand perspective, covering everything from phantom cow treatment, to applying Toyota's car manufacturing methods to calf rearing, and treating ketosis with red wine.