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EmailIphone Application    Posted: 18th January 2012
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Pig Finisher Challenge 2012 opens
BPEX hopes to spur production improvements.

Pig finishing units have been challenged to see how far they can improve production by October this year. The 2TS Finisher Challenge starts now – producers just need to contact BPEX to say they are ready to go for it.

The BPEX Knowledge Transfer (KT) team have announced that they will help producers identify areas of ‘lost potential’ and find ways to fine tune their system. The type of finishing system or what the starting point is does not matter – the challenge is open to all finishing and contract finishing pig units in England.

BPEX KT manager Lisbeth Ravn says: “The goal is to improve performance in the growing pig herd to help the industry reach the two-tonne sow target and increase profitability. We know that, with an improved focus and often small management changes, a big difference in production can be made. We’ll be providing support throughout the challenge, particularly with performance data records and how to make best use of them. We’d like pig finishers to get in touch as quickly as possible – we’re excited to see what can be achieved by October 2012!”

There will also be prizes for ‘most improved production’.

For more information, click here for details.

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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.