Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 7th June 2011
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel
Battersea urges compulsory microchipping

Battersea Dogs & Cats Home is renewing its calls on the Government to make microchipping compulsory, as the animal charity reveals over two thirds of dogs arriving at its door are not microchipped.

Battersea is making the call at the start of Microchipping Month, which runs throughout June. Each day Battersea receives an average of 11 stray dogs, many of which never see their owners again, but microchipping would dramatically increase their chances of being reunited.
 
A microchip is a tiny chip inserted into the scruff of a dog’s neck by a trained professional in a simple procedure. The chip has a unique code which when scanned with a special reader can be matched to the owner's details on a central database. Rescue centres, animal wardens and vets are all able to scan for this permanent form of identification.
 
Battersea’s Head of Intake & Assessing Liz McWalter says: “Every time a dog arrives at our door without a microchip I am dismayed. It is such a simple, quick, cheap and painless procedure, and one that can make the difference between never seeing your dog again, and being reunited quickly. I would urge everyone to chip their pet straight away.”

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

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.