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Animal Welfare issues debated by MPs in Westminster Hall
DEFRA expressed their support for tackling puppy smuggling.
Key issues including puppy smuggling discussed

Tougher animal cruelty sentences, rescue centre regulations and the international movement of puppies was debated in Westminster Hall on 4 December 2018.

Led by Jim Fitzpatrick MP, a committed animal welfare advocate, many of the issues raised were welcomed by Battersea Dogs & Cats Home.

Present at the debate was DEFRA minister David Rutley MP, who expressed his support for tackling illegal puppy smuggling and the exploitation of the current international Pet Travel Scheme.

The Association of Dogs and Cats Homes (ADCH) composed a ‘Minimum Standards’ proposal in regard to the regulation of animal rescue centres. The proposal consists of a template for establishing best practice and protecting animal welfare.

The Government's commitment to five-year sentences for animal cruelty was restated by the minister, however Battersea were disappointed that a date for a new Bill is yet to be arranged.

Battersea have offered their support and assistance in matters raised during the debate in order to “help save animals from mistreatment in the future.”

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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
New guidance for antibiotic use in rabbits

New best practice guidance on the responsible use of antibiotics in rabbits has been published by the BSAVA in collaboration with the Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund (RWA&F).

The guidance is free and has been produced to help veterinary practitioners select the most appropriate antibiotic for rabbits. It covers active substance, dose and route of administration all of which are crucial factors when treating rabbits owing to the risk of enterotoxaemia.

For more information and to access the guide, visit the BSAVALibrary.