ESCCAP UK & Ireland announces its Parasite Control Champion for 2026

ESCCAP UK & Ireland is delighted to announce that Dr Bronwen Eastwood of Brighton Veterinary Clinic has been selected as its Parasite Control Champion for 2026, in recognition of her sustainable and evidence-based approach to parasite control in companion animals.

Dr Eastwood has developed and implemented a risk-based parasite control protocol at her practice, ensuring that every pet receives more targeted, individualised care as part of a healthcare plan.  Rather than relying on the traditional bodyweight-based treatment bands, her approach takes into account each pet's lifestyle and individual parasite exposure risk, helping owners make informed decisions about the most appropriate level of protection for their animals.

A personalised approach to parasite protection

The practice offers a series of monthly care plans, tailored to individual risk levels.

For dogs, the plans are named “Home Body”, “Pioneer Pooch” and “Foraging Fido”, while cat owners can choose between “Pampered Puss”, “Curiosity Cat” and “Happy Hunter”.  The plans reflect increasing levels of parasite exposure risk, with pricing adjusted accordingly.

This approach helps ensure that preventative treatments are tailored to the individual needs of each pet, avoiding unnecessary medication while maintaining effective protection where it is needed.

A six-stage process

At the heart of the protocol is a structured six-stage process:

1. Collaboration: Practice staff work with pet owners to complete a questionnaire exploring the pet's lifestyle and habits.
2. Risk Assessment: Each pet undergoes an individual parasite risk assessment using a dedicated assessment tool. The results determine the most appropriate monthly care plan.
3. Investigation: Laboratory testing is undertaken where indicated.
4. Product Selection and Environmental Responsibility: Products are carefully selected to meet the needs of each pet and its owner, with consideration also given to their environmental impact. The practice does not use topical products containing imidacloprid or fipronil.  Preventative flea treatments are also avoided in low-risk pets where owners are able to carry out regular checks and identify early signs of infestation.
5. Education: Owners receive practical advice on parasite prevention, including how to check their pets for fleas and safely remove ticks.
6. Reassessment: The pet's care plan is reviewed and adapted as necessary whenever its lifestyle or parasite exposure risk changes.

Award presentation at London Vet Show 2026

Dr Eastwood will be formally presented with the award at the London Vet Show on 19 November 2026.  The presentation will take place during the session: "Emerging challenges in companion animal parasitology: a One Health perspective"

• Date: Thursday 19 November 2026
• Time: 15:50–16:40
• Location: Gallery Suite 11–12, ExCeL London, E16 1XL

ESCCAP UK & Ireland congratulates Dr Eastwood on being named its Parasite Control Champion for 2026!