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CMA finds concerns about eight IVC takeovers
IVC has five working days to respond to the investigation.
The authority is concerned about lack of competition after the mergers.

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has identified concerns about the takeovers of eight veterinary practices by IVC Evidensia between September 2021 and March 2022.

The initial phase one investigations, which opened in December 2022, have found competition concerns in the supply of small animal services in 23 local areas of Essex, Kent, Norfolk, Suffolk, Anglesey and South Wales.

Concerns have also been identified about the supply of out-of-hours emergency care for small animals in parts of Norfolk and Suffolk, as well as the supply of equine services in areas of Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire and Oxfordshire.

IVC has five working days to respond to the investigation with legally binding proposals to address the concerns.

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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.