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Petition launched to tackle puppy farming
Image: Marc Abraham
TV vet Marc Abraham introduces Where's Mum campaign

Pup Aid founder and TV vet Marc Abraham has launched an e-petition to help ban the practice of puppy and kitten farming in the UK.

The petition calls for a ban on the sale of puppies and kittens without the mother being present, and for urgent action to be taken to raise public awareness of the issue.

The cause has already received massive support, with celebrities including Brian May, Ricky Gervais, Liam Gallagher, Joanna Page and Meg Mathews getting involved. Marc says: "Everyday another celebrity comes along asking what they can do to help."

Marc launched Pup Aid - a community interest company - in 2010, having seen an influx of puppies coming into emergency vet clinics suffering from parvovirus, leaving their owners with vets bills of up to £2000.

Upon further investigation, Marc found that the animals were coming from a local puppy farm. He said: "I found that these people were really good at coming up with answers people would believe.

Feeling frustrated at how difficult puppy and kitten farming is to police, Marc launched Pup Aid, which aims to empower the public with knowledge, and he soon discovered the value of the media in raising awareness.

Explaining the focus of the e-petition and Pup Aid, Marc says: "Stop the supply, stop the demand and you stop puppy farming."

As well as a campaign, Pup Aid is also a free annual event, taking place this year at Primrose Hill in London on September 7. As well as music, food, fun and celebrity judges, the event includes a parade of ex-breeding bitches who are currently undergoing rehabilitation.

After launching three weeks ago, the petition has already received 30,000 signatures, but needs 100,000 before the issue can be brought before parliament.

For more information, visit the Pup Aid website, or click here to sign the petition.

 

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BEVA gives RVNs right to vote

News Story 1
 The British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA) is to allow its registered veterinary nurse (RVN) members the right to vote.

RVN members will now be able to take part in key decision-making processes and stand for BEVA council.

Marie Rippingale, chair of BEVA's Nurse Committee, said: "I am very proud to be a part of BEVA.

"This change will help to empower nurses to speak up and contribute, but more importantly, it will give them an opportunity to collaborate with other members of the equine veterinary profession to bring about change that is positive for all." 

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Northern Ireland chief vet warns of bluetongue risk

Following the detection of bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) in England, Northern Ireland's chief veterinary officer has urged farmers to remain vigilant and source animals responsibly.

Brian Dooher said: "This confirmation in England is a stark reminder of the threat bluetongue presents to Northern Ireland.Whilst this finding in Norfolk is disappointing it is not unexpected giving the rising level of disease across several countries in Europe. Bluetongue does not affect human health or food safety, however an incursion to Northern Ireland would have a significant impact on livestock and the rural economy.

"I would like to remind all farmers of the importance of sourcing animals responsibly and ask that they maintain vigilance for signs of the disease reporting any suspicions to DAERA immediately."

Suspected cases of BTV-3 in Northern Ireland should be reported to the DAERA Helpline on 0300 200 7840 or by contacting the local DAERA Direct Veterinary Office.