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Vets applaud APGAW update
BVA support updated report

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has welcomed the updated dog breeding report published by The Associate Parliamentary Group for Animal Welfare (APGAW).

Past President Harvey Locke said: "The BVA fully endorses the recommendations and practical solutions offered by this timely report."

He added: “I am pleased that the APGAW report recognises the vital role that education plays in tackling irresponsible dog ownership and would very much like to see the inclusion of animal welfare as part of the core curriculum.

“I am also delighted that the group recognises the value of a puppy contract.  The BVA Animal Welfare Foundation and RSPCA have recently launched a puppy contract and puppy information pack (PIP) which arms buyers with the knowledge to give themselves the best chance of getting a fit, healthy and happy, well socialised pet to join their household. The contract and PIP have also been designed to help good breeders demonstrate the care and attention they have devoted to their puppies’ breeding and upbringing.

“Much work has already been undertaken to improve dog breeding but there is much more to be done and the momentum must not be lost.  I am most grateful to Neil Parish MP, chairman of APGAW, for his commitment to producing this report.  It is an excellent means of keeping the issue high on the agenda by encouraging wider dialogue and debate within Parliament and in the EU.”

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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.