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North Wales council backs fireworks action
Wrexham CBC agreed that public displays within the local authority's boundaries should be advertised in advance.

Councillors agree to measures to help pet owners prepare

The RSPCA has expressed its delight at Wrexham Council plans to back action on fireworks.


On Wednesday (18 December), councillors at Wrexham County Borough Council (CBC) agreed to a host of measures to help pet owners prepare for the loud noises associated with fireworks, while also promoting their responsible use.

The move follows recent steps taken by Neath Port Talbot Council and Rhondda Cynon Taf Council, but Wrexham CBC is the first local authority to take action in North Wales.

It also comes after the launch of the RSPCA's 'Bang out of Order' campaign, encouraging the responsible use of fireworks and the adoption of tighter regulations concerning their use. 

Lewis Clark, RSPCA public affairs adviser, said: "It's fantastic that Wrexham Council has become the first in North Wales to back this series of measures to mitigate the risk fireworks can pose to animals and their welfare.


"Sadly, we're inundated with calls each year about welfare concerns for animals connected to fireworks. Measures like these taken in Wrexham can make a real difference for animals - and many vulnerable people too.”

Wrexham CBC agreed that all public displays within the local authority's boundaries must be advertised in advance, giving pet owners a chance to prepare and minimise threats to their animals.

Councillors also agreed to lend their support to a public awareness campaign and will be writing to the Welsh and UK Governments calling on them to act. 


Mr Clark continued: “We know being prepared can make all the difference for pets - so better advertising of displays and a public awareness campaign will help ensure fireworks can be enjoyed more safely in the area.


“It's great, too, that the Council will be encouraging suppliers to stock lower-noise alternatives, and will be lobbying both the Welsh and UK Governments to act; which we hope will help ensure more responsible use of fireworks across the country, leading to better safety for pets, animals and communities.”

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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.