Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 26th September 2022
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

World Horse Welfare reacts to transport recommendations
World Horse Welfare's founding campaign seeks to prevent needless long journeys to slaughter in Europe.
European Commission report outlines new welfare protections.

World Horse Welfare, the UK's largest equine charity, has reacted to the European Commission's (EC) recommendations to improve the conditions during the transport of horses.

The EC's scientific advisors presented a report on animal transport in Europe, and World Horse Welfare has welcomed its recommendations regarding shorter journeys, allowing more space and better training for people involved in the transport of horses.

Chief executive of World Horse Welfare, Roly Owers, commented on the recommendations: “We welcome this report which acknowledges what we have been saying for years: the longer the journey, the more horses can suffer, especially when conditions are not right. 

'These recommendations echo many of our own, including the need for shorter journeys, increased space allowance and better training for everyone involved in transporting horses.

'The report is an irrefutable case for change, and I very much hope that their recommendations will be taken on board, alongside a specified maximum journey time limit.

“In the shadow of Brexit there is a real danger that animal transport requirements in GB and EU will significantly differ. World Horse Welfare is working to seek as close alignment as possible with animal welfare and health rules, including disease control. 

'This will hopefully ensure the welfare of equines as they are transported between the EU and Great Britain, but also allow for ease of compliance for transporters.”

In the recommendations, the scientific advisors stated that horses should not be transported in temperatures above 25 degrees Celsius inside the vehicle. 

They also stipulate that each animal should have a minimum of 40cm space in excess of both width and length, and that overall journey times should be reduced, with stationary rest, feed and watering provided for a minimum of 30 minutes every four hours.

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

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.