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Survey to gauge cost of living impact on horse owners
“We want to establish how those of us who care for horses are dealing with the current economic climate" - Carolyn Madgwick, NEWC.

The findings will enable the NEWC to better support equine owners. 

Horse owners are being asked how they're coping with the cost-of-living crisis in a new survey.

Launched on Wednesday (21 December), the research is being undertaken on behalf of the National Equine Welfare Council (NEWC) by Redwings Horse Sanctuary, World Horse Welfare, Blue Cross, The British Horse Society, Oak Tree Animal Sanctuary and the British Farrier and Blacksmith Association.

NEWC chair Carolyn Madgwick said: “We want to establish how those of us who care for horses are dealing with the current economic climate. 

“The questions being asked include things like ‘what changes, if any, have you seen in horse care costs in the last year’ and ‘what changes have you made, or are considering, to save money?’.”

Feedback from the survey will be used to produce a report that will be shared with the public and, where relevant, the UK Government, Devolved Administrations and local authorities. The findings will also enable the NEWC to develop and publish guidance and advice to support those caring for horses across the UK. 

“The survey should take no longer than 20 minutes to complete, please do fill it in if you can and help us to understand how we might be able to help you,” Carolyn added.

The survey is available here and wil remain open until 31 January, 2023.

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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.