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Howard Brown takes over as VPMA president
Howard Brown and Helen Sanderson
Howard Brown as he took over from former president Helen Sanderson.
Continuing to understand and provide for members will be the presidential aim

Howard Brown was inaugurated as the new VPMA president at the VPMA /SPVS Congress on Saturday morning (January 24).

In his inaugural speech he said that although not a practice manager or vet, he had been involved with the VPMA for over 15 years and that during his presidency he aimed to keep the organisation on track; continuing to understand and provide for member needs.

He said that he had a particular interest in supporting the regions where so much good networking and support was provided. Importantly he emphasised that he brings  the experience of scale to the VPMA from his experience of working in larger organisations.

 

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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.