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Cattle vets announce new parasite policy
Parasite control in food-producing animals is full of challenges.
Parasiticide resistance and soil health among the five key areas. 

Plans to prioritise parasite control have been set out under a new policy announced by the British Cattle Veterinary Association (BCVA).

Parasite control in animals destined for human consumption is full of challenges - and endoparasiticide resistance is a serious threat that could damage the profitability and future health of the sector. 

To help meet these challenges, the BCVA has developed a policy to help vets build the future of parasite control in livestock and support the long-term health of UK cattle. In the document, the BCVA outlines five key policy areas, including:

  1. Parasiticide (Anthelmintic) resistance in cattle and sheep
  2. Sustainability and soil health
  3. Safety & efficacy of parasiticides/anthelmintics and public perception
  4. Education and development of a new ethos
  5. Method of supply of parasiticides.

The policy sits alongside BCVA’s new sustainability statement and existing TB policy, with a focus on the role of the private farm vet and related industries. 

Sally Wilson, who led the development of the policy alongside the BCVA Board, said: “We know that we need to encourage a shift from routine treatments to a diagnostic-led approach. BCVA is committed to contributing towards this shift. 

“Our profession needs to be able to clearly demonstrate how clinicians balance the goal of preserving the effectiveness of parasiticides/anthelmintics with their health and welfare obligations to the animals under their care.” 

BCVA president, Dr Elizabeth Berry added: “Training by the veterinary profession on medicine use with their clients has achieved considerable success recently, in both reducing and appropriate use of antimicrobials -around with initiatives like Farm Vet Champions taking this forward. 

“Developing and extending this relationship with farm clients can lead to a similar focus on the use of parasiticides and we all need to be part of a change in attitude in use of parasiticides and consider animal health and our environment. We can be part of the solution. 
 

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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.