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RAWF Concerned about Financial Pressures
The Rabbit Welfare Association and Fund (RWAF) has expressed concern about the knock-on effect of thousands of retrospective tax bills soon to be landing on the doormats of UK tax payers.

With approximately 2 million pet rabbits in the UK, the RWAF fears that the extra financial pressure will increase the number of pet owners giving up their rabbits. Many unwanted rabbits will find their way into rescue centres but some will be abandoned into the wild.

The charity is also worried about the number of rabbits being released into the wild and would like to draw pet owners’ attention to the fact this would almost certainly result in the rabbit’s death. The charity strongly advises pet owners to take their responsibilities towards their pets seriously and do everything they can to provide a suitable environment. If, as a last resort, they are unable to keep the rabbits then they must take all possible steps to rehome their rabbit with someone known to be responsible, and never abandon their rabbit into the wild.

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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.