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EmailIphone Application    Posted: 30th July 2013
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Proposals to tackle fly grazing in Wales
Charities call for a joint approach across the UK

The Welsh government has announced plans to introduce new laws to tackle fly grazing, a move which has been welcomed by leading horse charities.

Welsh minister Alun Davies announced the plans on July 17, whilst outlining some of the major issues surrounding fly grazing - such as, problems with identifying owners, length of time to prosecute and financial costs.

In a written statement, Mr Davies said current laws are no longer sufficient to deal with the problem of fly grazing. New legislation will be considered and an action plan on tackling the problem is to be published in autumn 2013.

The news follows a recent report published by six leading equine charities, which highlights that 7,000 horses are at risk of needing rescue in England and Wales.

Equine rehoming and rescue organisations warn that should there be another harsh winter, they will be unable to cope with the number of animals needing their help.

Charities behind the report have broadly welcomed proposals by the Welsh government, but are calling for action to be taken in the rest of the UK.

World Horse Welfare chief executive, Roly Owers, said: "What we need is better legislation and enforcement to hold irresponsible owners to account and more support for local authorities to deal with the numbers of horses left to breed, graze, suffer and often die on other peoples' land. 

"If Wales takes action and the rest of the UK does not, the problem will simply move over the border. We need a joined-up approach."

Click here to read the full statement from Alun Davies.

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

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.