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National Equine Forum details released
The 31st National Equine Forum will take place in London on Thursday, 2 March.
The event will be available to attend in-person and virtually.

Details for the 31st National Equine Forum, covering the latest industry advancements in science, health, welfare and sport, have been released.

Taking place in London on Thursday, 2 March 2023 and via livestream, the popular event will cover a diverse array of topics presented by expert speakers, including leading vets, industry professionals and government ministers.

Among the topics covered by the programme will include 'The equine industry in a changing world', including contributions from the Rt Hon Lord Benyon, minister of state for biosecurity, marine and rural Affairs, Defra. 

British Horse Council chair David Mountford will provide an update on health, welfare and traceability initiatives, while Roly Owers, chief executive of World Horse Welfare, will discuss the public perception of equestrianism.

There will also be an interesting discussion on 'The roles and responsibilities of influencers', exploring the role of media within the equine sector. Social media consultant Rhea Freeman will speak about managing social media and Eleanor Jones, news editor of Horse & Hound, will discuss the impact of print and online publications.

The day will include two quick topical conversations as well as a special interview with Charlie Thornycroft about her work with British Equestrians for Ukraine helping Ukrainian citizens and their animals. 

The winner of the Sir Colin Spedding Award will also be announced. 

Both face-to-face and live streaming delegates will be given the opportunity to ask questions at the end of all the main sessions. Further information and tickets are available from the NEF 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.