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Livestock health researchers formalise partnership
Professors Andrea Nolan and Julie Fitzpatrick
Professor Andrea Nolan and Professor Julie Fitzpatrick.

The Moredun Group signs Memorandum of Agreement with Edinburgh Napier University

Edinburgh Napier University has formalised a partnership with The Moredun Group - a world renowned institute committed to promoting livestock health and welfare through research and education. 

Based in Penicuik, just south of Edinburgh, The Moredun Group has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the university that will see greater collaboration between the institution's researchers.

The pair have already worked together on a variety of projects - from testing vaccines to combat parasites to examining farmers' attitudes to emerging livestock diseases such as the Schmallenberg virus.

New research will concentrate on land management issues, specifically with regard to livestock health and long term food security. There will also be a focus on understanding the sociological implications of new policy and uptake of new interventions.

Professor Andrea Nolan, principal and vice-chancellor of Edinburgh Napier University, said that the agreement builds on its long-standing and successful relationship with Moredun and its highly-respected team of researchers.

“It will encourage more mutually beneficial cross-working and development opportunities for our staff, including opening up new areas for joint research projects that deliver real impact for farmers, landowners and the public.”

Professor Julie Fitzpatrick, Moredun Research Institute scientific director & group CEO, said: “We are delighted to be working more closely with Edinburgh Napier University and can see real benefits from the opportunities provided by interdisciplinary collaboration to enable both organisations to make a real impact in enabling new technologies and developments to be used effectively where they are most needed.”

Image (C) Jane Barlow/Edinburgh Napier University

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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.