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Horse Tax Bill Opposition
Over 10,000 people have signed a petition opposing the proposals to introduce a tax on horse owners.
 The draft Animal Health Bill has drawn criticism from the horse sector regarding the introduction of a new tax on horse owners.

Over 10,000 people have signed a petition opposing the proposals to introduce a tax on horse owners. Campaigners have been logging on to the 10 Downing Street website since September to have their say on the proposals.

The British Horse Industry Confederation has explicitly expressed their concern. One spokesperson, Tim Morris said: “The horse sector has said it will work with the government to achieve the benefits of reduced risk of disease and enhanced animal welfare. The horse sector has a long history of already sharing responsibly and costs for disease with Defra, and unlike farmers the horse sector was only notified of these radical changes less than a year ago. But all we are seeing is the extra cost and complexity of an expensive new quango, which will be an unnecessary burden to both the taxpayer and horse owner, with none of these benefits.”

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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.