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Illegal pet importers must be 'brought to justice'
pups
Wood Green has seen a rise in the number of animals bought over the internet and subsequently rejected by their owners. (stock photo)
Wood Green speaks out about recent case
 
Those who import pets illegally must be "brought to justice", says animal charity Wood Green as it responds to news of a recent court case.

According to the charity, a Peterborough woman was ordered to pay £1,500 after she pleaded guilty to two counts of landing an animal with intent to evade rabies regulations.

“As a charity, we are committed to educating the public about the safe and sensible rehoming of animals, so we are disappointed when we learn of those who feel they can take shortcuts and make money in the process,” said Wendy Kruger from Wood Green.

The charity, which is based in Cambridgeshire, has seen a rise in the number of animals bought over the internet and subsequently rejected by their owners.

“The long term implications of getting an animal through an inappropriate means can be significant in terms of disease and health as well as the ongoing effects a poor start has on the dogs behaviour," Wendy added.

"In addition, if their new pet is found to have been legally imported, an unsuspecting new owner can find themselves with a bill of thousands of pounds to pay for quarantine. If they are unable to cover this cost they will be forced to part with the puppy."

The charity is urging would-be pet owners to acquire their new pet from a registered animal rehoming charity or a registered breeder.

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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.