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Further criticism of Welsh TB decision
Badger cull U-turn meets disapproval

The NFU Cymru’s deputy president has attacked the Welsh Government’s decision to opt against badger culling and has urged farmers to continue carrying out all available preventative measures.

Stephen James spoke at an on-farm meeting at Cefnddwysarn, near Bala, highlighting the “creeping nature” of the disease in Wales over the past two decades.

He commented: “The disappointment is that the Welsh Government has now removed the opportunity to cull badgers in the Intensive Action Area in North Pembrokeshire and without their removal this source of bTB infection will remain.

He added: “The vaccination of badgers which has just started there is as yet unproven. The worry and reality in the meantime is that this terrible disease will continue to creep northwards and westwards threatening the cattle and the wildlife of currently clean areas such as Meirionnydd.”

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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.