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Change to Approved Finishing Unit testing announced
Reform to 'reduce unnecessary burdens' announced

The Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency (AHVLA) has announced that cattle on English active Approved Finishing Units (AFUs) that are traced from a holding where a new TB breakdown has occurred will no longer be required to undergo testing for the purposes of tracing unless this is deemed necessary by a veterinary risk assessment.

This change will take place with immediate effect, but does not in any way alter the obligation of the herd owner to undertake regular testing of cattle on an AFU every ninety days (in England only, if with grazing) or every six months as is appropriate to the case.

It is understood that the Welsh Government is also considering the adoption of similar measures in Wales. The decision follows a general trend towards an approach to Tuberculosis control that emphasises risk-based strategies and the reduction of superfluous burdens. 

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Birmingham Dogs Home makes urgent appeal

News Story 1
 Birmingham Dogs Home has issued an urgent winter appeal as it faces more challenges over the Christmas period.

The rescue centre has seen a dramatic increase in dogs coming into its care, and is currently caring for over 200 dogs. With rising costs and dropping temperatures, the charity is calling for urgent support.

It costs the charity £6,000 per day to continue its work.

Fi Harrison, head of fundraising and communications, said: "It's heart-breaking for our team to see the conditions some dogs arrive in. We really are their last chance and hope of survival."

More information about the appeal can be found here

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News Shorts
Avian flu confirmed at premises in Cornwall

A case of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been detected in commercial poultry at a premises near Rosudgeon, Cornwall.

All poultry on the infected site will be humanely culled, and a 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone have been put in place. Poultry and other captive birds in the 3km protection zone must be housed.

The case is the second avian flu case confirmed in commercial poultry this month. The H5N5 strain was detected in a premises near Hornsea, East Riding of Yorkshire, in early November. Before then, the disease had not been confirmed in captive birds in England since February.

The UK chief veterinary officer has urged bird keepers to remain alert and practise robust biosecurity.

A map of the disease control zones can be found here.