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: 8th June 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

Conference highlights importance of wildlife forensics
The Wildlife Forensics Development programme will provide a platform for international research and training.
New programme to strengthen law enforcement

Representatives from more than 30 countries gathered in Edinburgh yesterday (7 June) to discuss the importance of forensic science in detecting and tackling wildlife crime.

Held outside the USA for the first time, the Society for Wildlife Forensic Science Symposium focused on how scientists can strengthen wildlife law enforcement.

During the conference, environment secretary Roseanna Cunningham confirmed a new partnership between the Scottish Government and the University of Edinburgh to set up a wildlife forensics development programme.

Creating formal ties between the Scottish Government’s Wildlife DNA Forensics Unit and the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, the programme will provide a platform for international research and training.

Ms Cunningham commented: “As hosts to the UK’s only dedicated wildlife DNA forensics lab, Scotland is leading the way when it comes to using forensic science to shape wildlife law enforcement. Forensics can provide evidence that an offence has been committed and plays an important role investigating trade routes and poaching.

“The new wildlife forensics development programme builds on Edinburgh’s strong reputation for biosciences, taking a progressive approach that will strengthen the links between enforcement, policy and forensics.”

Dr Rob Ogden, president of the Society for Wildlife Forensic Science, explained that the aim of the symposium is to help integrate modern forensic science with the global wildlife enforcement community.

“The fight against wildlife crime in all its forms requires coordinated efforts from multiple partners to reduce incentives and demand, and to investigate and prosecute criminal activity,” he said.

“Forensic science has revolutionised criminal investigations and is now being employed to help protect some of the world's most threatened species from persecution and illegal trade."

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.