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BVA Speaks Out Against Prophylactic Medicine Ban
The European move to ban prophylactic medicine has caused concern.

The British Veterinary Association has spoken out about its anxiety over the resolution of the European Parliament to call on the Commission to legislate against the prophylactic use of antibiotics (antimicrobials) in livestock farming.

Passed by MEPs on the 27th October 2011, the move comes as part of a larger motion drawing attention to the problem of antimicrobial resistance and calling for measures across Europe to reduce the increase in resistance.  

Carl Padgett, President of the BVA, said that while there is a huge amount to be welcomed in the resolution,"the call for a ban on the prophylactic use of antibiotics in livestock farming could have a detrimental impact on animal health and welfare by reducing the ability of veterinary surgeons to treat animals in a timely and appropriate fashion."

He added: "While we understand the desire to put an end to blanket prophylactic treatment with antimicrobials, this measure shows a lack of understanding of how vets treat infection on the farm."

"In a practical sense a complete ban on the prophylactic use of antimicrobials puts vets in a very difficult position and the result could compromise animal health and welfare."

The BVA has issued extensive guidance for vets on the responsible use of antimicrobials, available 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.