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Programme released for 29th National Equine Forum
The NEF 2021 will also include Q&A opportunities, an update from the British Horse Council and the announcement of the Special COVID-19 Sir Colin Spedding Award winner.

Virtual event will cover topics affecting the equine industry today.

The programme for the National Equine Forum – taking place online on Thursday 4 March – has been released. This year's programme will include presentations on the impact of Brexit, as well as inclusion and diversity within the equine industry.

The National Equine Forum (NEF) committee held two special interest webinars in January: Just in Time – Using Science to Save our Breeds and The Great Weight Debate (Equine). Updates and outcomes from both sessions will be covered at the NEF.

Tim Brigstocke, chairman of the NEF said: “While times continue to be challenging, presenting events in a virtual capacity can make them more accessible to many. In this way we hope NEF will engage and inspire even more participation, helping to disseminate the latest knowledge and news within the equestrian sector, presenting the opportunity for questions and debate from all interested parties.”

Sessions in the 29th National Equine Forum will include:

  • The Equine Industry in a Changing World
  • Adding Value Through Data
  • The Impact of Brexit on Our Industry
  • Engaging with More Diverse Communities Within Equestrianism
  • The Use of Technology to Support Equestrianism
  • Highway Code and Accidents

British Horse Council chair David Mountford will also provide a short update on the role and work of the organisation.

The audience will have a chance to engage with the discussions through Q&A opportunities and the day will close with the announcement of the Special COVID-19 Sir Colin Spedding Award winner.

For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit the National Equine Forum website.

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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.