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Climate change linked to livestock diseases
Conference warned on outbreak frequency

The Farm Cutting Carbon Toolkit Conference was told yesterday (Monday 27th February) that outbreaks of disease such as the Schmallenberg Virus (SBV) and Bluetongue would become more frequent unless the effects of climate change were urgently arrested.

Chief Advisor on Renewable Energy and Climate Change for the National Farmer's Union (NFU) Dr Jonathan Scurlock told those attending that the warmer climate meant that virus-carrying midges were 'thriving'. Dr Scurlock also added that drought will also become a more frequent problem in future years due to climate change.

Echoing Dr Scurlock's predictions, Chairman of Natural England Poul Christensen added that “We can see climate change impacting on our farms. Birds are nesting earlier and plants are flowering earlier. There should be no doubt about climate change and there should be no doubt about the need to tackle it.”

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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.