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Salmonella warning issued to reptile handlers
Image bearded dragon
In the last eight months, at least four cases of salmonella infection in Forth Valley have been linked to bearded dragons.
Cases of infection linked to bearded dragons, warn health experts

People who care for bearded dragons and other reptiles have been warned to be aware of the risks of salmonella.

Public health experts in NHS Forth Valley say there have been at least four cases of salmonella infection linked with bearded dragons over the past eight months alone.

The disease causes vomiting and diarrhoea which can last for several months in some cases. While it is not usually life threatening, complications can arise in very young, very old and immune-compromised individuals.

Reptile owners and carers are being urged to take strict hygiene precautions as salmonella can be carried in the gut and shed in droppings. Bacteria quickly spreads over the skin and can contaminate anything the reptile comes into contact with.

Health experts say children are particularly at risk as they are prone to stroking and handling pet reptiles.

The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has produced a guide called "Reducing the risks of salmonella infection in reptiles". Advice includes thorough hand washing after feeding reptiles or handling them, their cage or other equipment.

Visit the HPA website to view the guide.

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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.