National system for collection and analysis of data to improve disease surveillance in companion animals and horses

Purpose and goal

The aim of the project was to investigate the feasibility of introducing a national database of data from veterinary practices for companion animals in Sweden. The Vinnova grant together with resources from SVA, SLU and Svensk Djursjukvård has enabled the project. From the results we can conclude that there are good opportunities for a national veterinary database in Sweden. The members of Svensk Djursjukvård and the District veterinarians have a positive attitude towards providing anonymous data to the database. This provides for a nearly nationwide reporting to the database.

Expected results and effects

The project has investigated the feasibility of introducing a national database of data from veterinary practices in Sweden. Results from the project suggest that there are good opportunities for developing and introducing a national veterinary database in Sweden. Consequently, we have decided to proceed with the development of the database. The information in the database will be used for research, animal disease surveillance and for evidence-based veterinary care to support the needs of authorities, academy and veterinary practitioners.

Planned approach and implementation

The project was very successful, much due to the collaboration with SLU and Svensk Djursjukvård. Early in the process we formed a project group and a steering committee together to cooperate on issues during the initial project as well as to prepare for a future development project. A successful field trip to England was carried out where we established good contacts with representatives from SAVSNET and VetCompass. As a result of that, SAVSNET is now one of the project partners in the development project.