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MilkSure training programme hands over administration to the BCVA
There are more than 3000 MilkSure accredited farms in the UK, supported by more than 300 veterinary surgeons.

Changes to scheme will make it more accessible for vets and farmers.

The British Cattle Veterinary Association (BCVA) has announced that it has taken over delivery of the dairy certification programme MilkSure, in order to reduce the administrative burden on farms.

MilkSure is a training programme aimed at dairy farmers and delivered by the veterinary profession. It has a focus on residue avoidance in milk, but also covers medicine stewardship, best practice for treatment protocols, and methods to reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance.

There are more than 3000 MilkSure accredited farms in the UK, supported by more than 300 farm veterinary surgeons who have taken part in MilkSure training.

As part of the decision to transfer MilkSure's administration entirely to BCVA,  the association will also introduce a series of changes to make the programme more accessible for both veterinary professionals and farmers.

According to the BCVA, the training will retain the same format, however, there will be no central register of accredited farms. Instead, accredited farms will receive a MilkSure Certificate, signed by a MilkSure-registered veterinary professional.

Additionally, accreditation will be able to be maintained through a simple annual ‘Top Up’, reducing the amount of administration that is required from farmers.

For more information about the MilkSure programme email office@cattlevet.co.uk or visit www.milksure.co.uk

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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.