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Denmark to build a fence to keep out ASF
“A fence will keep potentially infected wild boars from crossing the border."
New measures aim to protect the country’s pig herds 

Denmark is set to build a 70km fence along the border with Germany to reduce the risk of African swine fever (ASF) reaching the country’s pig herds.

An outbreak of ASF would prompt an immediate shutdown of all exports to third countries, worth DKK 11 billion (£1.29 billion). Pig exports to other EU member states would not be affected, except for exports from the affected part of Denmark.

“A fence will keep potentially infected wild boars from crossing the border and make it easier for hunters to eradicate wild boars from Denmark,” said Esben Lunde Larsen, Danish minister for environment and food.

The fence will require new legislation and is expected to be 1.5 metres tall, dug 50cm into the ground. Cattle grids or gates will be established on footpaths that cross the border, and it will still be possible to drive across, in accordance with the Schengen Agreement.

This is one of a number of initiatives to prevent ASF spreading to Denmark. There has been a considerable hike in fines for breaching regulations, for example failing to properly clean vehicles for transporting animals, illegally importing food or feeding food waste. Danish hunters were also given new options for hunting wild boars.

An information campaign is also raising awareness of the risks of ASF among pig farmers, hobby farmers and pet pig owners.

A separate campaign is aiming to ensure haulage companies comply with the rules on cleaning and sanitising lorries after transporting bi-ungulate animals.

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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.