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Dog trafficking “will not be tolerated,” minister warns
Pupppy behind bars
More than 700 vehicles were checked by DEARA’s portal inspectors and council animal welfare officers.
Over 30 puppies seized in Belfast operation

Northern Ireland’s agriculture minister, Michelle Mcllveen, has warned that illegal movements of dogs through the country’s ports “will not be tolerated”.

Her call follows an operation between the Department of Agriculture (DAERA), Mid and East Antrim Borough Council and Belfast City Council, which led to over 30 puppies being prevented from travelling to Great Britain illegally.

“This sends out a clear message that enforcement bodies will take whatever action necessary to ensure that the welfare of animals is protected, that illegal movement will not be tolerated and that legislative requirements are met,” she said.

Launched before Christmas, the operation at Larne and Belfast Ports came after concerns were raised about the potential illegal movements of commercial consignments of dogs.

The initiative focussed on the welfare of animals during transportation, the identification of animals and the licensing and registration of dog breeding establishments.

In total, more than 700 vehicles were checked by DEARA’s portal inspectors and council animal welfare officers. This resulted in more than 30 pups being either prevented from travelling or surrendered at the ports.

Miss Mcllveen said that information gathered by her team will be shared with enforcement bodies in Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland to provide ongoing intelligence and to tackle the illegal trade in puppies.

“Legislation alone will not stop illegal puppy farming. This will take a concerted effort by members of the public and enforcement agencies working together to identify breeders who put financial gain before the welfare needs of their dogs and pups,” she said.

“I would encourage anyone with specific evidence of an illegal breeding establishment to provide this to councils to allow enforcement action to be taken.”  

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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.