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Badger cull officially begins

Start of six-week cull confirmed by NFU

Pilot badger culls have officially begun in Somerset and controlled shooting is expected to continue for six weeks despite protests.

Approved in February this year, the pilot culls are part of an attempt by the government to tackle bovine tuberculosis (bTB) in England.

In a letter to members, National Farmer's Union (NFU) president, Peter Kendall, confirmed the start of the cull, speaking of the "misery" suffered by farmers dealing with bTB.

Environment secretary Owen Paterson said: "We know that despite the strict controls we already have in place, we won't get on top of this terrible disease until we start dealing with the infection in badgers as well as cattle.

"That's the clear lesson from Australia, New Zealand, the Republic of Ireland and the USA."

The culls, however, have attracted much controversy, with a number of organisations including the RSPCA, Born Free Foundation and Humane Society joining together as Team Badger to campaign against the cull.

Commenting on the announcement, the RSPCA said is was "deeply saddened" by the news and will continue its campaign against the cull.

Controlled shooting in Somerset will continue for six weeks, and further culling in Gloucestershire is expected to begin later this week.

Related News
BVA supports badger cull
Charities say culling will be ineffective
Pilot badger culls approved

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.