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EmailIphone Application    Posted: 26th September 2013
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Use of RMS as bedding investigated
Study will assess the risks of recycled manure solids as bedding

The risks, and benefits, of using recycled manure solids (RMS) as bedding for dairy cattle are to be investigated by scientists.

A research contract has been awarded to Nottingham University Vet School, The Dairy Group and Quality Milk Management Services (QMMS), to gather scientific information.

Defra will then use this data to further analyse the risks in order to determine whether the use of RMS as bedding should be allowed under the EU animal by-products regulation.

According to not-for-profit organisation DairyCo, which awarded the research contract, rising costs and reduced availability of bedding sources has resulted in many dairy farmers looking for more cost-effective alternatives.

The organisation says that interest in the use of RMS as bedding is growing globally, including in the UK.

However, the regulations classify manure as a category 2 animal by-product, and animal bedding is not currently listed as a permissible disposal route for category 2 material.

Despite the growing interest, the organisation says that there is currently a lack of scientific evidence on the effect that using RMS as bedding may have on disease transmission.

During a meeting with Defra and other industry stakeholders in June this year, it was agreed that a study would be conducted to gather scientific information.

A progress report on the research is expected by October 31, 2013, and a final report by February 28, 2014.

Defra has issued advice on interpreting the current EU animal by-products regulations, which can be found on the AHVLA website.

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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.