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New York considers end to ferret ban
ferret
Ferret keeping was banned in 1999.
Long-standing ban on ferret ownership may be overturned

New York health officials are considering a repeal of the city's ferret keeping ban, the New York Times reports.

In 1999, former New York mayor Rudolph Guiliani made it illegal to own ferrets, due to fears over rabies and attacks on young children. However, the move has prompted controversy among many.

According to the New York Times, current mayor Bill de Blasio is aiming to legalise ferret ownership once again.

In an internal paper reviewed by the paper, New York health officials weigh the pros and cons of allowing ferrets to be kept as pets.

On the pro side, officials said evidence shows ferrets do not bite more often or more severely than other pets of the same size. However, young children may be vulnerable to ferret bites, the internal paper says.

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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.