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Operation RAMP Hailed a Success
Wildlife Minister Richard Benyon has praised the UK’s contribution to a global Interpol operation targeting the illegal trade of reptiles and amphibians.

Launched in response to a growing trade in illegal wildlife, Operation RAMP saw police, customs and wildlife enforcement authorities in 51 countries carrying out thousands of checks at ports, pet shops and animal suppliers.

The operation, which ran from the start of September to the end of October, focused on the illegal trade and possession of reptiles and amphibians - including turtles, crocodiles, lizards, frogs and snakes. Worldwide, it resulted in a number of arrests and the seizure of thousands of animals and illicit products worth more than 25 million Euros.

In the UK, efforts were concentrated on the illegal possession and trade of tortoise species, which had been previously highlighted as a priority under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).

"I am grateful to everyone who took part in this successful operation which resulted in a number of arrests and the seizure of thousands of animals and illicit products,” said Minister Richard Benyon.

"Tackling wildlife crime is a top priority for the Government and we are committed to doing all we can to end it. I have seen for myself the expertise and dedication of those who police wildlife crime. By working in partnership with the public, police and conservation bodies we can thwart these criminals and help protect endangered species."

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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
RCVS pays tribute to well-loved equine vet

The RCVS and the Riding Establishments Subcommittee has paid tribute to well-loved veterinary surgeon and riding establishment inspector, Rebecca Hamilton-Fletcher MRCVS.

Linda Belton MRCVS, RCVS President, said: "I, along with my colleagues on the RESC, RCVS Council, RCVS Standards Committee, as well as RCVS staff, was very saddened to hear of the sudden death of Rebecca, or Becca as we knew her, last week.

"She was a true advocate for equine welfare and in her many years on the RESC worked to continually improve the quality and consistency of riding establishment inspections, all in the interests of enhanced horse welfare and rider safety."