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Breakfast with the Presidents
Dr Jolle Kirpensteijn and Mark Johnston
WSAVA and BSAVA Presidents have breakfast press meeting

WSAVA President Dr Jolle Kirpensteijn and in-coming BSAVA President Mark Johnston held an informal press meeting this morning to discuss the ways in which their associations can work together and help the further development of the veterinary profession.

Dr Kirpensteijn praised the veterinary profession's "central role in animal welfare" but he raised the point that vets are often "shy" when it comes to vocalising their importance beyond the level of general practice.

WSAVA and BSAVA have a very successful relationship, and presidents of both associations agreed that education is vital, not only in terms of constantly improving veterinary medicine but also on a grander global scale. For example, the WSAVA One Health Committee, which is headed up by the BSAVA junior vice-president Michael Day, was highlighted as a means by which the veterinary profession can help the medical industry worldwide and it was stressed that the role of veterinary associations in education is crucial.

Clinical research is an important part of both associations' role, and the WSAVA is keen to translate research into a global scale. One of their current goals is to eradicate rabies and Dr Kirpensteijn reiterated that cooperation and communication between the veterinary profession and beyond will be vital in its achievement.

The bond between the WSAVA and BSAVA is strong, not least proven by the opening ceremony speech given by Brian Singleton, one of BSAVA's first presidents and a founding member of WSAVA, and today's meeting with Dr Jolle Kirpensteijn and Mark Johnston is a clear indication of its long continuation. 

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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.