The publication of this new guide marks the enormous advances that have been made into our understanding of poisoning in small animals. The development in knowledge owes a great deal to the inspirational work of Alex Campbell, former head of service, and the team at the Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS), formed and supported initially by Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, and now operating as a division of Emergency Scientific and Medical Services (ESMS). We also owe enormous thanks to thousands of veterinary surgeons who subscribe to the service and submit feedback forms to VPIS – without this feedback we would not have progressed to this point. The profession owes Alex a debt of gratitude for his extensive work in this field and his desire to improve the treatment of poisoned pets.

The BSAVA/VPIS Guide to Common Canine and Feline Poisons is designed to be a triage tool; the information contained has been compiled from the data sheets developed by VPIS over many years. The information will provide veterinary surgeons and nurses with a handy resource. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with VPIS in the future and supporting further work in this important area.

We look forward to continuing our collaboration with VPIS in the future and supporting further work in this important area.

Andrew Ash BVetMed CertSAM MBA MRCVS

BSAVA President 2011–2012

(Foreword revised April 2019)