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Scotland to play host to conservation genetics conference
"We're really excited to welcome everyone to the wonderful city of Edinburgh" - Dr Emily Humble, the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and The Roslin Institute.

Experts will share recent developments in this rapidly-evolving field. 

International experts are set to gather in Edinburgh for the fifth European Conservation Genetics Meeting, taking place across three days in September (August 30 – September 1).

Hosted by the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland, the University of Edinburgh and the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE), it is the first time the meeting will be held in the UK - and the first time it has taken place since 2015.

The event will see experts from across Europe and beyond share recent developments in conservation genetics, the study of which is contributing to the conservation of some of the world’s most endangered wildlife.

A rapidly evolving field, scientists hope that by understanding the genetic diversity within a population, they can define what they are working with and how best to protect it.

Dr Kara Dicks, a researcher at RZSS WildGenes, Edinburgh Zoo, commented: "Our planet is facing an extinction crisis, so now more than ever, we are looking forward to hosting an in-person global event to learn and share vital information. By coming together to share our expertise and experience in designing genetic tools, we can protect species around the world and help secure a future for wildlife.”

Dr Emily Humble, a research fellow in conservation genomics at the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and The Roslin Institute, added: “This is the first time the European Conservation Genetics Meeting has happened in the UK, and we're really excited to welcome everyone to the wonderful city of Edinburgh.”

The event is taking place both in-person and online. For more information about the conference and to register, visit consgen.org

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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.