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TB testing contracts extension welcomed by BVA
Following a constructive dialogue, XL Farmcare and Cornwall have announced an extension to the contract signatures from 14 to 21 days.
Increased from 14 to 21 days 

A decision to extend the deadline for TB testing contracts in Devon and Cornwall has been welcomed by the BVA.

BVA members raised concerns last week that the 14-day deadline for signing the new TB testing contracts did not give veterinary business enough time to consider the contract changes.

Working with the BCVA, the BVA raised these concerns with XL Farmcare Devon and Cornwall and other key stakeholders, including the APHA.

Following a constructive dialogue, XL Farmcare and Cornwall have announced an extension to the contract signatures from 14 to 21 days.

Sean Wensley, president of the BVA, said: “We are pleased that XL Farmcare Devon and Cornwall has listened to the concerns that have been raised and has responded positively. We hope this deadline extension will give veterinary practices the time they need to consider the financial and practical implications of the new contracts for their businesses.

“Now that the new system of Delivery Partners is in place it is essential that everyone works together to ensure the effective delivery of TB testing and to maintain the vital relationship between farmers and their local vets.  BVA will continue to support and represent the interests of all our members, and we recognise that making the new arrangements work poses challenges for all parties involved. 

“We have also raised our members’ concerns with APHA, and we are in the process of contacting the other Delivery Partners in England to discuss how we can work together to smooth the roll-out of new contracts across the country.”

Contracts in the South East were issued on Friday and BVA expects new contracts to be issued imminently.

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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.