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Welsh public asked to report dead badger sightings
Badger
"Bovine TB is one of the biggest challenges facing Wales' farming industry."
Help requested for Wales-wide survey as part of drive to tackle bovine TB

Members of the public in Wales are being asked to report sightings of dead badgers as part of the Welsh Government's continuing drive to tackle bovine tuberculosis (TB).

It's hoped the sighting information will help with an extensive survey being carried out across the whole of Wales that aims to identify which badgers found dead are infected with bovine TB.

The survey started on Monday, 3 November, and will continue through until at least the end of 2015. It has already been running in the Intensive Action Area in North Pembrokeshire since 2012.

Anyone who finds a dead badger is asked to contact the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) on 0300 303 8268. The line is open from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday and wherever possible APHA will endeavour to collect all carcasses reported.

Deputy Minister for Farming and Food, Rebecca Evans said: "Bovine TB is one of the biggest challenges facing Wales' farming industry. It is a devastating disease and one that, as a government, we are working hard to eradicate… The survey will provide useful information on Mycobacterium bovis (M.bovis) infection in badgers and the results will be used to investigate the relationship between M.bovis infection in badgers and cattle. This is another important step in our aim to tackle TB and achieve our ultimate goal of a TB free Wales."

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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.