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Scottish Hot Branding Ban Welcomed
The British Veterinary Association (BVA) and British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA) are delighted at the announcement from the Scottish Government that the hot branding of horses and ponies will be banned in Scotland.

New regulations will be laid in the Scottish Parliament in September to remove the exemption which allows the hot branding of equine animals to take place.

The announcement follows a consultation by the Scottish Government driven by BVA and BEVA policies calling for a full ban last year.
 
Commenting, Professor Bill Reilly, President of the BVA, said: “This is a very important decision for the welfare of horses and ponies. Hot branding is undoubtedly painful and causes unnecessary suffering. We are delighted that the Scottish Government has made this decision and hope that the rest of the UK follows.”
 
Dr Madeleine Campbell, President of BEVA, added: “Hot branding requires the efficient destruction by burning of the superficial skin layers leaving a distinct scar. This technique is clearly no longer justifiable on welfare grounds and we are very pleased that the Scottish Government has listened to our concerns.”
 
 
Scottish Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and the Environment Richard Lochhead said: "There is no place for hot branding in a country which prides itself on its high animal welfare credentials. The main function of branding is to identify horses and ponies but the legal requirement to microchip all equines now means that it is no longer required.”
 

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FIVP announces third series of Practice Matters

News Story 1
 The Federation of Independent Veterinary Practices (FIVP) has announced a third season of its podcast, Practice Matters.

Hosted by Ian Wolstenholme, series three will focus on the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) investigation, including a discussion about some of the expected impacts on independent veterinary colleagues.

Episode one launches on 13th January with guests Drs David Reader and Scott Summers, who will draw on their research into the CMA investigation and provide insights into themes such as transparency, pricing and consumer trust.

Ian Wolstenholme said: "In its third series, we will try and hone in on what the changes will mean in reality for independent practices with advice and guidance on implementation and delivery, drawing on the experience of our own team and other experts in the profession. Hope you can join us soon!" 

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News Shorts
Survey seeks ruminant sector views on antimicrobial stewardship

A new survey is seeking views of people working in the UK ruminant sector on how to tackle the challenge of demonstrating responsible antibiotic stewardship.

Forming part of a wider, collaborative initiative, the results will help identify the types of data available so that challenges with data collection can be better understood and addressed.

Anyone working in the UK farming sector, including vets and farmers,is encouraged to complete the survey, which is available at app.onlinesurveys.jisc.ac.uk