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Animal welfare 'compromised' by legislative loopholes
caged puppy
Between 2011 and 2013 the number of declared puppies entering Great Britain increased by over 780 per cent from some European countries.

Vets claim loopholes have led to an overpopulation crisis

Loopholes in animal welfare legislation could be the cause of a rise in neglected and sick animals, according to the Animal Welfare Foundation.

Vets at the charity have suggested that the government is failing to put in place measures to control and regulate indiscriminate breeding, as well as the sale of animals.

Speakers are due to claim that this has resulted in an over-population crisis which has comprised the welfare of a great number of companion animals.

Extensive evidence reveals that despite work by animal charities highlighting and attempting to tackle over-population, the situation is getting worse.

According to statistics released by the Dogs Trust, between 2011 and 2013 the number of declared puppies entering Great Britain increased by over 780 per cent from some European countries.

Similarly, the number of horses that equine charities say they took into care in the first quarter of 2013 increased by 40 per cent, compared to the year before.

The legislative loopholes are due to be explored at the Animal Welfare Foundation's annual Discussion Forum in June.

Veterinary surgeons Maggie Roberts from Cats Protection, Roly Owers from World Horse Welfare, and David Martin will offer solutions to address the solution.

During the Discussion Forum, vets will also explore topic such as ethical dilemmas, slaughter and antibiotic resistance.

AWF Chair of Trustees,Tiffany Hemming, said: "This year's AWF Discussion Forum looks very exciting and I am particularly looking forward to debating how we might tackle over-population issues in companion animals and exploring some potential solutions with the wide range of delegates we attract."

The AWF Discussion Forum brings together animal welfare organisations, vets, veterinary nurses, the media, parliamentarians and students to confront current welfare issues and inspire change.

This year's forum takes place on Monday, June 8 from 10am to 5pm at One Great George Street in London. Places are £95 with lower rates available for veterinary nurses, recent graduates and students.

To see the full AWF Discussion Forum programme or book a place visit http://www.bva-awf.org.uk/events.     

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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.