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Welsh Government delays dog microchipping
microchip
Compulsory dog microchipping was due to come into force in Wales on March 1, 2015.
Compulsory microchipping law due in March has been postponed

Plans to introduce compulsory dog microchipping in Wales this March have been delayed.

In a written statement published in September last year, the Welsh deputy minister for farming and food, Rebecca Evans, said she had asked for the draft regulations to be withdrawn to ensure they are "fit for purpose" before they come into force.

Government officials were asked to revisit the draft regulations, whilst continuing to work closely with Defra and database stakeholders. As a result, Ms Evans said "the previously stated date of March 1, 2015, by which all dogs in Wales should be microchipped, is unlikely to be achieved."

In addition, she announced that draft Breeding of Dogs Regulations would also be withdrawn and relaid before the National Assembly for Wales "as soon as possible".

Ms Evans said in the statement: "I appreciate that this may not be wholly welcome news but I wish to assure you that these two important pieces of legislation will be taken forward in Wales as swiftly as possible. I will emphasise that it is important we get these regulations right."

A further written statement is expected to be released as work progresses.

To read the full statement, visit: http://wales.gov.uk/about/cabinet/cabinetstatements/2014/dogs/?lang=en

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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.