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Milestone reached for Scottish microchipping law
dog microchip
Compulsory dog microchipping is expected to come into force in England, Wales and Scotland in April 2016.
New rules to be introduced in April 2016
 
Scotland is set to introduce compulsory dog microchipping by April 2016, at the same time as England and Wales.

The legislation was laid before Scottish Parliament yesterday (3 Dec), marking a major step forward.

Under the new law, all dogs in Scotland will need a microchip and their owners' details must be registered and kept up to date on a database that complies with certain rules.

Rural affairs secretary Richard Lochhead said: "Today marks an important milestone towards compulsory microchipping, which will help reduce the number of lost and abandoned dogs in Scotland - safeguarding animal welfare and promoting responsible ownership.

"As well as reuniting pets with their owners, it will allow authorities to directly identify dog owners and hold them accountable for their dogs' behaviour and welfare."

A Scottish consultation on responsible dog ownership in 2013-14 found 83 per cent of respondents supported compulsory microchipping.

Owners with unchipped dogs are now being urged to get their pets microchipped in time for the new legislation. The Dogs Trust has revealed it will be offering free microchipping in Scotland at mobile drop-in events and at its two rehoming centres.

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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.