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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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Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

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News Shorts
Lords Committee opens Pet Parasite Medication inquiry

The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee will launch its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medication (PPM) on Wednesday (3 June).

Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.