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Proposed Welsh Dog Breeding Regulations Welcomed
BVA lauds published post-consultation second draft.

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has applauded the publication of draft regulations designed to regulate and control dog breeding in Wales. This is the second draft of the proposed regulations published by the Welsh Government, which now takes into account issues raised during the initial consultation period, which ran from October 2012 to January 2011.

Commenting on the news, BVA President Carl Padgett said: “The BVA has lobbied hard for the Welsh Government to press forward with legislation to tackle the issues of puppy farming and irresponsible breeding. A huge amount of work has already been completed by experts in this field and bold policies proposed. We are delighted that this issue is now back at the top of the Welsh Government’s agenda. Too often veterinary surgeons see the devastating consequences of poor breeding practices and we hope effective measures can be brought in as quickly as possible.”

“The BVA will consider in detail the changes from the first consultation and will be responding to the Welsh Government by the 27 March deadline,” he added.

Minister for Environment and Sustainable Development John Griffiths also announced that the introduction of legislation requiring all dogs in Wales to be microchipped was also under consideration. The Welsh Government will consult on plans for compulsory microchipping as a separate matter later this year.

Mr Padgett also welcomed this proposal, saying:

“Microchipping is the safest and most effective way to ensure stray pets are reunited with their owners, and that is why the BVA has joined forces with a number of animal welfare organisations to establish the Microchipping Alliance to campaign for the compulsory microchipping of all dogs. As well as promoting the responsible ownership message, another clear benefit of permanent identification is the increased traceability it provides between puppies and their breeders.”

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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.