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Equine industry calls for workable horse ID system
National Equine Forum
Over 200 of the country's most influential members of the equestrian industry attended the 23rd National Equine Forum.

System identified as the basis for equine health, management and welfare

The implementation of a robust and workable horse ID system was identified as the basis for equine health, management and welfare in the UK, at the 23rd National Equine Forum (NEF) on 5 March.

Over 200 of the country's most influential members of the equestrian industry attended the event, including HRH The Princess Royal, Lord De Mauley TD, international equine vets, researchers, riders, trainers and business leaders.

Other topics covered were the practicalities of equine legislation, the management of health and disease control, and the future of British breeding.

Opening the event, Lord De Mauley outlined plans for the introduction of a strengthened, fit-for-purpose, equine ID regime throughout Europe.  

He explained: "A robust regulatory framework is important - but to be effective we need people to meet their responsibilities. I would ask you in the sector to help us improve awareness and compliance so people know the importance of doing the right thing."

Steven Gale, animal health and welfare officer for Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, discussed the legislation available to local authorities to tackle equine welfare and the increase of fly grazing.

He called for the microchipping of all equines, a robust passport system, and owner details to be kept up-to-date using a fit-for-purpose central equine database.

Jeanette Allen, chief executive of The Horse Trust, and Louise Kemble, chair of the British Horse Industry Confederation, presented the Equine Sector 2015 General Election Manifesto for the Horse. The document recommends an update of the current horse passport system as a priority for improved health and welfare.

Forming part of NEF's new format, a panel representing Chief Veterinary Officers (CVOs) from England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland debated their priorities on equine health and welfare in a changing world.

Chaired by Roly Owers, chief executive of World Horse Welfare, the consensus of the panel was for identification, traceability and individual national databases to feed into a central system, ideally encompassing all 28 EU member states.

To download the full proceedings view www.bef.co.uk 

Image (C) Craig Payne Photography

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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.