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BHA confirms scope of Cheltenham racecourse review
The review is expected to conclude in summer 2018.
Racing body to conduct review after racehorse deaths 

A review is set to examine all recent equine fatalities and long-term injuries at Cheltenham racecourse and the Cheltenham Festival, the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has confirmed.

The move comes shortly after the deaths of six horses at this year’s four-day festival in March.

BHA is aiming to adopt an evidence-based approach to improving equine welfare, to reduce risks for horses, demonstrate openness and transparency and use relvant expertise to inform the review process.

The review will focus on the following areas: courses, obstacles, participant factors, starts, safety factors and race tempo, programming and race conditions, and veterinary aspects.

It will be led by Brant Dunshea, BHA’s director of integrity and regulatory operations, and co-ordinated by Emma Marley, head of racecourse operations. Relevant internal and experts will also assist the process, including organisations such as the RSPCA and World Horse Welfare.

The review is expected to conclude in summer 2018, to allow recommendations to be implemented ahead of the 2018/19 jump season.

BHA also recently announced it would look at whether existing penalties for misuse of the whip offer an adequate deterrent for jockeys. This topic will be discussed by the board before the scope and timings are finalised.

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

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.