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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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Applications open for MMI research grants

News Story 1
 RCVS' Mind Matters Initiative (MMI) has launched round two of its veterinary mental health research grants.

Researchers have until 11.59pm on Wednesday, 28 May 2025 to apply for a grant for research which reflects MMI's 2025 focus areas.

Only one Impact Grant was awarded last year, and so this year there are two Discovery Grants and one Impact Grants available. Each Discovery Grant is worth £5,000 and the Impact Grant is worth £15,000.

For more information or to apply, email researchgrants@rcvs.org.uk to contact the MMI team.

 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
BBC Radio 4 documentary addresses corporate fees

BBC Radio 4's File on 4 Investigates has released a documentary exploring how corporate-owned veterinary practices may be inflating bills to increase profit.

Released on 15 April, 'What's Happening To Your Vet Bills?' revealed the policies which many corporate groups have in place to increase their profits. This included targets and upgrades which veterinary teams are tasked with meeting on a regular basis.

It also features Anrich Vets, an independently-owned practice based in Wigan. Following the case of Staffordshire terrier Benjy, who is diagnosed with a tumour, the documentary shares how the team were able to offer contextualised care and advice to make the procedure as affordable as possible for his owners.

The documentary can be heard on demand on BBC iPlayer.