Veterinary pathologists and College members Professor Roberto La Ragione and Kate English, gave Defra officials a tour of The University of Surrey School of Veterinary Medicine, followed by a productive discussion on the issues facing the veterinary pathology profession.

Veterinary pathology is the diagnosis and treatment of disease in animals and is divided into three sub-specialties; veterinary microbiology, which covers animal disease surveillance, veterinary anatomic pathology, which is concerned with post-mortem examinations and histopathology, and veterinary clinical pathology, which includes the disciplines of clinical biochemistry, haematology and cytology.

The vital work of veterinary pathologists in animal disease surveillance and their key role in protecting animal and human health against animal disease threats was agreed by all. 

Officials left with a greater understanding of the challenges facing the profession and with ideas for future collaboration to find potential solutions. The College looks forward to working with Defra more closely.

Kate English (far left) and Professor Roberto La Ragione (middle) with Defra officials