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.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 24th February 2017
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

Say “yes” to assistance dogs
Under section 37 of the Disability Discrimination Act, it is an offence for a taxi driver to refuse to carry an assistance dog.
Government issues reminder to taxi drivers

Taxi drivers are being reminded of their legal requirement to carry guide dogs when required by passengers with disabilities.

The reminder has been issued by the Department for Infrastructure (DFI), who are working closely with Guide Dogs to ensure that people who use assistance dogs are fully aware of their rights.

Under section 37 of the Disability Discrimination Act, it is an offence for a taxi driver to refuse to carry an assistance dog. It is also illegal for taxi drivers to make charges for doing so, unless they display an exemption certificate.

If a taxi driver has a genuine medical reason for not being able to carry an assistance dog, they must apply to the DFI for an exemption certificate and display it in the taxi.

Failure to adhere to these conditions could result in a fine of up to £1000. 

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

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.