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: 26th October 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
Dog Breeding Consultation Launched in Northern Ireland
The Kennel Club issues a call to action as Northern Ireland launches dog breeding consultation.

The Kennel Club has welcomed a consultation by the Northern Ireland Assembly to review legislation on dog breeding establishments in a bid to crack down on puppy farming.

Michelle O'Neill, the Agriculture and Rural Development Minister, launched the consultation on new measures for dog breeding establishments with an aim to raise the standard for breeding establishments and enhance the conditions for dogs and puppies within those premises.

This follows on from the Kennel Club-supported decision earlier this year to introduce compulsory microchipping to Northern Ireland. The Kennel Club is pleased with many measures proposed as part of the consultation, including those to limit the number of litters a bitch may produce.

Caroline Kisko, Communications Director of the Kennel Club, said: "The Minister has made it clear that she understands that dog breeding is a legitimate business, and does not want to introduce unnecessary and potential onerous requirements for breeders, but has highlighted that the welfare needs of pups, dams and sires is of paramount importance."

She added that the Kennel Club supports the move absolutely, and urges all those with an interest in dog breeding to review the proposals and make their voices heard.

For more information and to view the consultation documents, click here. 

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.