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Tougher penalties for late bTB tests
farmer with vet
CAP payments will be reduced by 1 to 5 per cent if TB tests are overdue.
Defra to crack down on late tests in 2015

From the start of the new year, farmers who fail to complete their bovine TB tests on time will face tough new penalties, Defra has announced.

Cattle farmers who receive Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) payments will see these reduced by 1 to 5 per cent if their TB tests are overdue. The move is part of the government's plans to eradicate the disease.

Currently, farmers' CAP payments are reduced if they are late for TB surveillance and check tests, but from January 1, 2015, this will be extended to most other types of TB test. Excluded from this rule are tests to trace trace animals as a result of a TB breakdown elsewhere.

CAP payments will be reduced by 1 per cent if testing is one to 10 days late, 3 per cent if it is 11 to 30 days overdue, or 5 per cent for delays of more than 30 days.

In addition to this, Defra will introduce six-monthly surveillance checks in parts of Cheshire included in the TB edge area. This will replace the annual herd test and radial testing.

For more information, visit Defra's 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.