References

Updated on: October 14, 2023

Hierarchy of Evidence

In our efforts to maintain the highest level of accuracy and reliability for answers provided on our platform, we adhere to a structured hierarchy of evidence when referencing sources. This ensures that our answers are backed by the most trusted and reliable sources available. Here’s a breakdown of our hierarchy, listed in order of preference:

1. BSAVA Small Animal Formulary/NOAH Compendium: These resources are the gold standard when it comes to information related to veterinary medications and treatment guidelines. They provide comprehensive data on drug indications, contraindications, dosing, and side effects.
2. RCVS, BVA & AVMA guidelines: The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) and British Veterinary Association (BVA) are prestigious bodies in the veterinary field. Their guidelines are developed after extensive research and consultation with experts in the field. Following their guidelines ensures we’re aligned with current best practices.
3. NADIS/Merck/Vetlexicon/Veterinary Information Network®: These platforms provide a wealth of information, ranging from disease descriptions, diagnostic criteria, treatment recommendations, and more. They combine both peer-reviewed content with expert opinions to deliver balanced insights.
4. Meta-analyses: Meta-analyses are studies that collate findings from multiple studies to arrive at a comprehensive understanding of a particular subject or topic. By looking at patterns across various research papers, meta-analyses provide more definitive answers than individual studies.
5. Expert reviews in high impact factor veterinary journals: High impact factor journals are recognised for their rigorous peer-review processes and high standards of publication. Expert reviews in these journals often provide in-depth insights on specific topics, backed by years of research and experience.
6. Expert reviews in other journals: While these might not be in the most prestigious journals, these reviews still provide valuable insights and are written by experts in the field. They offer additional perspectives and information that might not be covered in higher-tier journals.
7. Our opinion, your opinion, your senior’s opinion: While empirical evidence and research-backed data are vital, there’s also value in the lived experiences and insights of professionals in the field. While these opinions might not be the primary sources of information, they can offer contextual understanding and real-world application insights.

By adhering to this hierarchy, we ensure that the answers we provide are not only accurate but also reflect the latest advancements and understandings in the veterinary field.

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