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Charities say culling will be ineffective

Team Badger issues report ahead of planned cull

On the eve of the planned badger cull, which is due to begin on June 1, a group of charities have issued a report highlighting concerns that the cull will be ineffective.

The group of around 15 charities banded together to combat the planned cull and are known collectively as Team Badger. Charities involved include the RSPCA, the Humane Society International/UK, Born Free Foundation and Brian May's Save Me.

The "Myth-busters Report" has been published by Team Badger today (May 31) to address what are felt to be inaccuracies used to justify the badger cull.

RSPCA chief executive, Gavin Grant, said: "We care about cows and badgers alike. It is time to set the record straight and tell the truth that the cull will not help the cattle or stop bovine TB."

The report argues that other countries have successfully addressed bovine TB by controlling cattle movements, and that in many cases of bovine TB badgers are not involved at all.


Responding to concerns that culling is more economical than vaccinating the badger population, Team Badger assert that the bill for the cull could reach £10-20million if plans are rolled out as planned after the six week pilot.

The report also raises the concern that many scientists believe the badger cull could make the situation even worse.

The six-week pilot badger cull is due to begin on Saturday, June 1 in Somerset and Gloucestershire. The Department for Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), has indicated that the cull could be rolled out further following the pilot.

 

Related News
Badger vaccine field trial begins in Ireland
Pilot badger culls approved

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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. 

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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.