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

Guide to assess equine fitness for transport
Horses in field
The guidelines are directed at anyone involved in transporting horses, ponies, and donkeys.

Aims to support good animal welfare

New guidelines to assess the fitness of equines for transport have been published following extensive research and consultation.

Coordinated by World Horse Welfare and the Federation of European Equine Veterinary Associations, the guidelines are directed at anyone involved in transporting horses, ponies, and donkeys.

The publication has been developed by experts in the fields of animal transport, welfare, veterinary medicine, industry, research and enforcement.

It aims to support good animal welfare, reduce public health risks, and develop a consistent approach across the European Union.

Furthermore, the guidelines help transporters avoid penalties, financial losses and withdrawal of authorisation or driver’s certificate of competence.

Welcoming the guidelines, Andrea Gavinelli, head of animal welfare at the European Commission, said: “EU Regulation 1/2005 states that “No animal shall be transported unless it is fit for the intended journey”. With this provision the legislator recognised the very important risk to welfare deriving from the transport of unfit animals.

“As in many cases, proper enforcement of the legislation depends upon it being understood. This is why these guidelines play an important role in assisting everyone involved in the transport of horses to ensure they are in full compliance with the legislation. Documents such as this are vital tools for maintaining good health and welfare amongst transported animals."

 

 

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

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.