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Tough questions raised over badger cull
Discussion arose at FUW meeting

The annual meeting of the Farmers Union of Wales Carmarthenshire county branch saw lively debate over the Welsh Government's decision to vaccinate rather than cull badgers.

Members of the Union unanimously believed that, by giving in to the Badger Trust,  the Government had opted for the softer, 'safer' option rather than listening to the scientific reports and results, and asked the panel - which included Llanelli's Labour AM Keith Davies - whether the move was being used more as a "Politician Protection Act."

County executive officer Meinir Bartlett said: "The question certainly created a heated debate with Mr Davies given a rough time."

She added: "It was felt farmers should use the same tactics as the Badger Trust and show photographs of cattle being slaughtered and the dramatic effect it was having on family farms."

Another contentious issue raised at the meeting was the creation next April of a new single body following the merger of Environment Agency Wales, Countryside Council for Wales and Forestry Commission Wales, which also proved a cause for "unanimous concern."


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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.