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MP proposes law to restrict fireworks
The bill is one of three Private Members' Bills related to animal welfare going before Parliament.
Legislation could be put in place to help reduce stress to animals.

Restrictions could be placed on the sale of fireworks to reduce the stress they can cause animals and people after a Private Members’ Bill was introduced to Parliament on Wednesday, 16 October.

Put forward by Luton North MP Sarah Owen, the Fireworks Bill is expected to include measures to reduce the impact of fireworks on animals through noise limits, firework control zones, and restricting when they can be sold. The exact details will be announced once the bill has been fully drafted.

The Private Members’ Bill is one of three related to animal welfare that will be going before Parliament. MPs will also consider a bill to ban fur imports and a bill to tackle puppy, kitten, and ferret smuggling.

Put forward by backbench MPs rather than the government, Private Members’ Bills can become law if they gather enough support in both Houses of Parliament. Earlier this year, a law to make dog and cat theft specific crimes came into force after it had originally been introduced as a Private Members’ Bill.

Ms Owen said: “I have received hundreds of letters and emails from concerned residents, frankly fed up of having their sleep and lives endlessly disrupted. Loud fireworks are also a huge cause of stress for pets, and can be distressing people with PTSD, bringing back painful or traumatic memories. It’s time to tighten the rules.

“I look forward to working with animal welfare and veterans charities, as well as MPs from across Parliament, in getting this crucial change through.”

Animal welfare charities such as the RSPCA have been campaigning for tighter restrictions on fireworks because of the stress they can cause pets, wildlife, and livestock.

David Bowles, head of public affairs at the RSPCA, said: “With Bonfire Night approaching, we know many people will be getting excited by fireworks – but it's important they are used responsibly, and consider animal welfare. 

“Our legislative framework in this area is long due an update, so it's really welcome to see this being looked at via a Private Members' Bill.”

Image © Shutterstock

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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.