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

Exotics centre inundated with reptiles
Around 50 snakes, including corn snakes, boa constrictors and king snakes have been admitted to RSPCA Brighton.
Around 50 snakes admitted to RSPCA Brighton

An RSPCA exotics centre is appealing for potential new owners following an influx of forgotten and abandoned reptiles.

Around 50 snakes, including corn snakes, boa constrictors and king snakes have been admitted to RSPCA Brighton.

Staff say that summer is always a busy time for them with reptiles, especially the more commonly-kept species, like corn snakes.  However, this year they have been inundated.

“We have so many beautiful snakes looking for new owners, through no fault of their own, and we would love to see them find their forever homes with caring and responsible owners who know how to care for them properly,” explained RSPCA exotics senior scientific officer Nicola White.
 
“Some were neglected, many were abandoned, and others were signed over to us simply because their previous owners no longer wanted them.”
 
She added: "Reptiles are specialist animals so it is very important that owners research the needs of the particular species thoroughly and make sure they can provide what they need for the entirety of their lives.

“Not everyone has the facilities, time, commitment and understanding needed to look after them properly so we’d ask people to think very carefully before taking them on.”

Anyone who is looking to re-home a snake from the RSPCA should contact the Brighton branch on http://www.rspcareptilerescue.co.uk/

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

Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Lords Committee opens Pet Parasite Medication inquiry

The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee will launch its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medication (PPM) on Wednesday (3 June).

Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.