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Scottish government to establish dairy brand
Milk
"This will help to deliver the support our dairy farmers need to face the future with confidence and certainty in the face of the changing price of milk.” 
Plan to boost the profile of Scottish products

A Scottish dairy brand to promote products at home and overseas will be launched this year, the Scottish government have announced.

Giving evidence to the Scottish Parliament's committee yesterday, Rural Affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead said that he will shortly publish a detailed dairy action plan.

The plan will contain a proposal for a dairy brand and a showcase for retailers and overseas buyers to boost the profile of Scottish products, as well as a range of other measures reflecting Mr. Lochhead's discussion with the Committee.

“Here in Scotland we can produce some of the best cheese, butter and other dairy products around. I want to make it easier for consumers to choose Scottish products first – providing much needed support to local farmers and boosting the Scottish economy. I also want to help our dairy farmers capitalise on the proud reputation of Scottish food and drink and access more export opportunities.

“Establishing a dairy brand will help consumers recognise the Scottish option and promote Scottish produce to overseas buyers. Our planned showcase will put the spotlight firmly on our fantastic produce for retailers in Scotland and buyers from around the globe.

“The support does not end there. I will shortly publish an action plan to help ensure a more sustainable future for the industry. This will help to deliver the support our dairy farmers need to face the future with confidence and certainty in the face of the changing price of milk.”

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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.