The British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA), The British Small Animal Veterinary Association (BSAVA) and The Association of Veterinary Anaesthetists (AVA) have successfully engaged with the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) to facilitate a practical solution to the isoflurane supply problems.  Isoflurane is the most widely used veterinary anaesthetic agent in animals, allowing both routine and emergency surgeries to be performed. It was announced last week that the third-party manufacturer of isoflurane had to cease production with immediate effect due to a mechanical problem on the production line. This resulted in a shortfall of the anaesthetic. Stocks of alternative products are believed to be limited, with the potential for supply to be restricted. It is therefore highly likely that routine operations for dogs, cats and horses would have to be postponed. Some clinics had concerns that they would not be able to safely perform emergency surgery over the Christmas period.  Having in ...