Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.

Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

New method for testing stress in sheep
sheep
The study showed sheep in the upper decks were described as more alert, curious and aware than sheep in the lower decks.
Scientists assess behaviour to detect stress during transportation

Scientists in Australia have come up with a new method for testing stress levels in sheep during road transportation.

Traditionally, stress levels are measured using physiological responses, such as increased heart rate and cortisol levels.

A new method using behavioural measures, referred to as qualitative behavioural assessment (QBA), was discussed at the Australian Veterinary Association's annual conference this week.

Dr Teresa Collins from Murdoch University, Australia, said it is not always practical to carry out physical examinations of sheep during journeys.

Researchers at the university watched video footage of sheep taken during transportation and observed their body language. Their behaviour was scored using descriptions such as calm, comfortable, agitated or nervous.

"The study showed sheep were affected by the type of crate and deck level," Dr Collins said. "For example, those transported in the upper decks were described as more alert, curious and aware than sheep in the lower decks."

Dr Collins said the QBA could be used to detect stress in sheep and indicate changes that could be made to transport facilities to maximise the welfare of the animal. It could even "assist in promoting best practice guidelines for industry." 

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

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
RCVS pays tribute to well-loved equine vet

The RCVS and the Riding Establishments Subcommittee has paid tribute to well-loved veterinary surgeon and riding establishment inspector, Rebecca Hamilton-Fletcher MRCVS.

Linda Belton MRCVS, RCVS President, said: "I, along with my colleagues on the RESC, RCVS Council, RCVS Standards Committee, as well as RCVS staff, was very saddened to hear of the sudden death of Rebecca, or Becca as we knew her, last week.

"She was a true advocate for equine welfare and in her many years on the RESC worked to continually improve the quality and consistency of riding establishment inspections, all in the interests of enhanced horse welfare and rider safety."