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Enthusiasm from Welsh Farmers for Neutering Scheme
The Welsh farming community expressed support for the Dogs Trust's neutering campaign.

The Dogs Trust is proposing to carry out free neutering and microchipping for all farm dogs in Wales, in an attempt to address the huge stray dog population in the country.  

Almost 200 veterinary surgeons are currently taking part in the scheme, which has received huge support from the Welsh farming community. The increasing demand for the service has resulted in more and more vets becoming involved each week.

Previously, there has always been a reluctance in farmers to neuter farm dogs due to the mistaken belief that a neutered dog does not work as well, but the success of the scheme indicates that attitudes towards neutering are changing.

Sian Edwards, Campaign Manager for Dogs Trust in Wales, said: "Our launch of the scheme at this year's Royal Welsh Show has seen a huge uptake of free neutering and chipping for farm dogs. We had some great feedback at the show from farmers who had already used the scheme for both their pet dogs and working dogs. We also had a really positive response from owners of working Terriers and Lurchers who reported that their neutered dogs were much more focused on their work now."

Sharon Pond, a sheep farmer from Carmarthenshire, described the scheme as "brilliant."

Ms Edwards added: "So many vets take part so there really is no excuse not to neuter!"

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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.