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Dog fouling threat to beaches highlighted
Growing trend causes risk to public health

The annual beach litter survey by the Marine Conservation Society (MCS) has noted an 11% increase in incidents of dog excrement being bagged and abandoned on public beaches, with a massive increase of 71% in Scotland. The MCS survey also noted that general littering had actually declined in the same period, with a full 11% decline being recorded over a weekend in September.

Dog fouling has repeatedly been found to be a threat to public health due to the risk of exposure to high levels of bacteria, a cause of dramatic falls in water quality, and a general public nuisance. The MCS has recommended that dog owners instead follow disposal instructions and use the bins provided for such a purpose.

This is not the first call for responsibility from dog owners clearing up after their animals. British Waterways were obliged to launch a similar campaign in 2010 to prevent dog owners abandoning bagged excrement near canals. 

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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.