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BVA welcomes Welsh programme of improvements
John Blackwell
John Blackwell has welcomed a new Veterinary Science Centre  and innovations in disease surveillance in Wales.

President praises introduction of gamma testing for bovine TB

The president of the BVA has welcomed a new Veterinary Science Centre and surveillance innovation in Wales. However, he also warned that local vets need "to remain at the heart of official veterinarian service such as TB testing."

Speaking at the Association's annual Welsh dinner last Tuesday (June 16), John Blackwell praised the introduction of gamma testing for bovine TB at Carmarthen, saying that it "takes to sixth gear the early identification and control of a disease that has blighted livestock in Wales, England and Northern Ireland".

However, he also expressed disappointment that innovative programmes, such as Cymorth TB, which provide additional veterinary support for farmers hit by disease, are currently in a state of suspension.

He urged the Welsh Government "to reinstate and expand the programme as soon as possible, including the training of vets to the new programme".

Since April 1, all TB testing and other veterinary work in Wales has been provided by two regional delivery partners: Meter a Busnes in North Wales and lechlyd Da (Gwledig) Ltd in South Wales.

Farming and food minister Rebecca Evans says that the new arrangements have been designed to provide higher levels of assurance for the quality of testing and value for money.

Meanwhile, the Welsh Government is working with the APHA to develop a Centre of Veterinary Expertise for Extensive Livestock production. The centre will be based at the APHA's centre in Carmanthen and, it is hoped that it will enhance the health, welfare and profitability of animals raised in extensive farming systems.

During the dinner, Mr Blackwell also recognised the successes and progress in Wales on a number of key issues such as the introduction of the Control of Horses Act and the Animal Welfare (Breeding of Dogs) Regulations.

He also spoke about the introduction of compulsory microchipping of dogs in Wales in Spring 2016, and vets' work in raising awareness with clients.

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Submissions open for BSAVA Clinical Research Abstracts 2026

News Story 1
 The BSAVA has opened submissions for the BSAVA Clinical Research Abstracts 2026.

It is an opportunity for applicants to present new research on any veterinary subject, such as the preliminary results of a study, discussion of a new technique or a description of an interesting case.

They must be based on high-quality clinical research conducted in industry, practice or academia, and summarised in 250 words.

Applications are welcome from vets, vet nurses, practice managers, and students.

Submissions are open until 6 March 2026. 

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News Shorts
Survey seeks ruminant sector views on antimicrobial stewardship

A new survey is seeking views of people working in the UK ruminant sector on how to tackle the challenge of demonstrating responsible antibiotic stewardship.

Forming part of a wider, collaborative initiative, the results will help identify the types of data available so that challenges with data collection can be better understood and addressed.

Anyone working in the UK farming sector, including vets and farmers,is encouraged to complete the survey, which is available at app.onlinesurveys.jisc.ac.uk