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Welsh government launch new Snares Code
Fox
The Code seeks to deliver increased efficiency in terms of fox control.
Code will help to reduce animal welfare issues

A Code of Best Practice on the Use of Snares in Fox Control has been published by the Welsh government to help reduce animal welfare issues.

The code is aimed at those who use snares in the Welsh countryside and seeks to deliver higher animal welfare standards, increased efficiency in terms of fox control, and ensure that fewer non-target species are caught.

In 2012, a report published by the Food and Environment Research Agency revealed the extent and humaneness of snares on animals in England and Wales.

The report highlighted that although snares were mainly used when other control method were not available, many were leading to animal welfare risks and the capture of non-target animals.

Following the report findings, the Welsh Government has been working with stakeholders to find ways to improve animal welfare standards by improving the practice in Wales.

In a statement, deputy farming minister Rebecca Evans welcomed the code and thanked all those involved.

She added: "It is vital that we improve awareness of the issues around snaring and we will continue to work closely with our partners to make sure the messages from the Code are widely disseminated and publicised across Wales.

"I hope this action will help improve snare operator practice by providing clear and practicable advice and how to comply with the law.  This will in turn ensure improved standards in animal welfare and reduce the impact on non-target species." 

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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.