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Welsh Gamebird Welfare Code
Gamebirds get new codes of practice
The Welsh Assembly Government has published a code of practice for the welfare of gamebirds reared for sporting purposes.

The code will apply to game farms that rear birds for sporting purposes only but it will not effect those that are farming them for food. The code will come into effect on 1st January, 2011.

Although much of the advice in the code of practice will already be carried out by competent game farmers, it does contain new advice on good rules of practice in a number of areas. This is because either new evidence has shown that certain management practices may directly compromise the birds' welfare or where the government considers that the practice may compromise the birds' welfare and leave game farmers vulnerable to prosecution under the 2006 act.

You can download the code of practice here.

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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.