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Swiss chefs ordered to stun lobsters before boiling
Many scientists and animal welfare organisations argue that the lobster’s nervous system is quite sophisticated.
Government bans practice of boiling lobsters alive 

Chefs in Switzerland will no longer be able to boil lobsters without stunning them first, under new rules introduced by the Swiss Government.

According to The Guardian, the move is part of a wider modernisation of Swiss animal protection laws. From March 1, 2018 the practice of plunging live lobsters into boiling water will no longer be permitted.

The government order read that lobsters 'will now have to be stunned before they are put to death’. Swiss broadcaster RTS said that only electric shock or the ‘mechanical destruction’ of the lobster’s brain will be permitted methods of stunning under the new rule.

Many scientists and animal welfare organisations argue that the lobster’s nervous system is quite sophisticated and that it is likely to feel great pain when boiled alive.

The government of Switzerland also said that the live transport of marine crustaceans on ice will no longer be permitted, insisting instead that they must ‘always be held in their natural environment.’

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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.