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

Johnny Depp could face prison over dog imports
Johnny Depp
Australia's agriculture minister warned the dogs would be euthanised unless they left the country within two days.

Actor failed to declare two dogs on entering Australia

Johnny Depp could face up to 10 years in prison and a heavy fine after illegally importing his two dogs into Australia.

Earlier this month, the Pirates of the Caribbean star flew to Australia on a private jet, to film the fifth instalment of the series, Dead Men Tell No Tales.

The actor entered the country without declaring his two Yorkshire terriers Boo and Pistol, breaking the country's stringent quarantine laws, according to the Sydney Morning Herald.

This appears to have come to light after the dogs visited a local grooming parlour, which subsequently posted a picture on their Facebook page.

The story made headlines when Australia's agriculture minister warned the dogs would be euthanised unless they left the country within two days.

The dogs have since returned to the US, but according to the Sydney Morning Herald, an Australian senate committee was told if the case goes to court, Depp could face a lengthy prison sentence and maximum fines of AU$340,000 (£172,000). The pilot could also face two years in prison.

 

Image attribution: Everett Collection/Shutterstock.com

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
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.