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National Ferret Day
Today is National Ferret Day, and the BVA is using this to remind pet owners and vets about the availability of the BVA Animal Welfare Foundation’s (BVA AWF) practical guide designed to enable owners to provide the very best of care for their pet ferrets. 

Produced in association with the Ferret Education & Research Trust (FERT), the ‘Caring for your ferret’ leaflet reflects the growing popularity of these intelligent and curious animals as household pets.
 
Carl Padgett, Chair of the BVA AWF Trustees, commented: “The ‘Caring for your ferret’ leaflet covers the basics such as housing, feeding, health care and toilet training. It also offers advice on ‘ferret-proofing’ your home and garden, advice on games – ferrets particularly love hide-and-seek – and, very importantly, breeding and neutering as well as vaccination against canine distemper should owners be tempted to take their ferret for a walk on a lead and harness.”
 
The growing popularity of ferrets was highlighted in a recent survey which showed that almost half of owners acquired their ferret in the last five years and a significant majority of ferrets were now kept as pets rather than working animals.
 
“A high level of commitment and care is needed when taking on any pet and our guide should ensure that even the novice owner has all the information necessary to ensure their ferret’s health and welfare,” Mr Padgett added.
 
National Ferret Day aims to ensure issues such as welfare, care, nutrition and ownership are all highlighted in a positive light and to educate the public to respect these animals.
 
Speaking on behalf of the Trustees of FERT Ian Kearns said: “One of FERT’s major concerns is that many ferrets are now ending up in rescue centres, because people haven’t read up on them before taking on one.  We’d urge anyone to consider a ferret as a pet - but do your homework first, make sure you understand their housing and dietary needs, and of course register with a vet. As well as vaccination, your vet can also microchip your ferret.”
 
‘Caring for your ferret’ is available to download from the BVA AWF website and veterinary practices can obtain batches of leaflets for the waiting room by emailing the BVA AWF. Members of the public can also request individual copies.

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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.