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Vets welcome glue trap ban
Glue traps can cause immense suffering to animals.
The new Glue Traps (Offences) Bill is to become law.
 

British Veterinary Association (BVA) president Justine Shotton has welcomed a new Bill banning rodent glue traps, which passed its Third Reading in Parliament on Monday (26 April).

The new Glue Traps (Offences) Bill follows a campaign by the BVA and a host of animal protection organisations to see an end to the use of these traps, which can cause immense suffering to animals, including pets and other wildlife. 

Ms Shotton said: “We welcome the news that this bill has passed its third reading and will mean that these cruel glue traps can no longer be used by the general public. 

“Along with other animal protection and research organisations, we campaigned for a ban on the widespread use of these traps, which do not kill a trapped animal immediately and can lead to hours of agony and suffering, so are pleased this will be put into motion.”

Having passed its final reading, the Bill will now go for Royal Assent, meaning the general public can no longer use the traps. However, Ms Shotton expressed concern that it still enables pest controllers to apply for licences. 

“We are disappointed that this new Bill falls short of an outright ban and only puts restrictions on the general public,” she said. “We are keen to see the greater detail of the licensing scheme as we are concerned that, as the pest control industry is shockingly still unregulated, anyone calling themselves a ‘pest controller’ will be able to gain a licence and continue to use these traps in an irresponsible way. 

“It’s also crucial that if these licences are granted, that enforced user training and strict rules around monitoring the traps are also implemented to ensure no trapped animals are subjected to prolonged suffering and non-target animals are freed quickly.” 

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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.