Practical CPD and hands-on learning at BSAVA Alba
In addition to lectures within the main programme, we have a number of practical workshops available to add-on to your booking and enhance your learning experience at the event. With sessions on imaging and dentistry, these more hands-on opportunities allow a deeper dive into these topics and allow you to develop your understanding through theory work and follow through with practice.
Spaces are limited so secure your spot when booking your ticket to BSAVA Alba!
Anaesthesia
Friday 25 September, 14:45-15:30 & 15:30-16:30 | Orkney Room | Open to Vets & VNs
Ready, get set, vent! – Practical mechanical ventilation essentials
Mechanical ventilation doesn't have to be daunting. This practical workshop is designed to build confidence in using a mechanical ventilator by focusing on the principles that matter most in everyday veterinary anaesthesia. Through interactive discussion and hands-on learning, delegates will explore the differences between pressure-controlled and volume-controlled ventilation, when each mode is appropriate, and how to make informed adjustments during anaesthesia.
The session will simplify key concepts, including minute volume, tidal volume and airway pressures, highlighting how these variables influence gas exchange and the development of hypocapnia and hypercapnia. Participants will learn how to interpret ventilator readings, understand the relationship between settings and patient physiology, and recognise common ventilation problems before they become significant.
Ideal for veterinary nurses and veterinary surgeons looking to strengthen their practical ventilation skills, this workshop will provide the knowledge and confidence to optimise ventilation, troubleshoot common challenges and make better clinical decisions for anaesthetised patients
Limited spaces! Pre-booking is essential to not miss out on a spot in this practical workshop. RSVP when booking your ticket online. Already bought your ticket? Email events@bsava.com to check availability and to be added.

Dentistry
Friday 25 September, 13:30-14:30 & 15:45-16:45 | Orkney Room | Open to Vets & VNs
Instrument training for dental surgery: Using dental instruments the right way makes dental surgery efficient, safe and much faster
In this practical, hands on session, Ivan Crotaz will cover recommended techniques for a wide range of dental instrumentation. Although nurses will not be performing all of these techniques in clinic, learning them means that they can help their vets transition to a faster, more delicate surgical procedure. Session is suitable for all clinical staff. The entire session is taught using cadaver replacement models and is supported by Bonovate Ltd and Eickemeyer Ltd, manufacturers and distributors of Dentanomic® and other dental equipment.
Limited spaces! Pre-booking is essential to not miss out on a spot in this practical workshop. RSVP when booking your ticket online. Already bought your ticket? Email events@bsava.com to check availability and to be added.
Imaging
Saturday 26 September, 09:00-10:30 & 13:30-15:00 | Orkney Room | Open to Vets & VNs
Ultrasound knobology: Practical image optimisation and interventional procedures on ballistic gel phantoms
Ultrasound machines can be intimidating and difficult to operate due to the complexity of the numerous settings available. In this lecture Anselmo Gil will talk about how to optimise ultrasound settings to obtain diagnostic (and beautiful) images. We will cover the theory of image optimisation and ultrasound controls followed by a practical session in which we will practice scanning and ultrasound guided procedures on ballistic gel phantoms.
Limited spaces! Pre-booking is essential to not miss out on a spot in this practical workshop. RSVP when booking your ticket online. Already bought your ticket? Email events@bsava.com to check availability and to be added.
