Using the entire dental team can be an effective way of educating our patients on risk factors for periodontal disease. It is important to note that this audit focused on clinicians delivering the advice and future direction should consider patient compliance and uptake of information.

Vaginal carcinoma makes up 1%-2% of all gynaecological tumours. Verrucous carcinoma of the vagina is even more rare--only 16 cases are reported in the scientific literature. A case of a complete regression after 60 Gy fractionated radiotherapy by a tumour 12 cm3 in size is reported. Most authors are of the opinion that radiotherapy causes anaplastic transformation of verrucous carcinoma. The minority view, that anaplastic transformation does not occur, is correct and is supported by our clinical and radiological data. The conflicting literature on vaginal verrucous carcinoma (VVC) is reviewed with reference to verrucous carcinoma at other sites.

: Working for a charity can be a very different experience to that of private practice; and although challenging, it is also extremely rewarding. The PDSA provides care to the sick and injured pets of people in need and promotes responsible pet ownership.

When presented with a hyperthyroid patient, medical treatment should always be instigated prior to surgical stabilisation to reduce the anaesthetic risks involved. However, stabilisation prior to surgery is not always an option owing to cost and the fact that medical treatment may not always be successful. The following case describes an unstable hyperthyroid feline patient undergoing surgery for a total thyroid removal. The surgery was performed in a ‘charity’ environment and it therefore outlines the essential equipment required when cost is an issue.

Effective pain assessment is an important and essential attribute of a registered veterinary nurse (RVN), however, despite this studies have highlighted that recognition of adequate analgesia requirements in veterinary practice is low. Since 2010 RVNs have become accountable for their own actions with a requirement to follow a Code of Professional Conduct. This states that animal health should always be the first consideration highlighting a requirement for a clear understanding of analgesia and pain assessment. Pain scoring systems can be utilised to encourage individual assessment of patients and encourage a holistic approach to nursing resulting in a high standard of nursing care.