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Dairy herd productivity breakthrough
Experts claim control of mastitis is essential 

Following the fifth European Mastitis Panel meeting, held last week in Bristol, experts have claimed that the control of mastitis-causing pathogens is key to improving dairy herd productivity.

15 experts from seven European countries attended the panel – including Chris Hudson of the University of Nottingham and Theo Lam, a professor at Utrect University. The participants took part in a two-day workshop which involved visits to typical regional farms and an exchange of expertise on the latest approaches to mastitis control throughout Europe.

The devised plan involves a structured, herd-level approach to mastitis control. This was initially tested using a randomised controlled trial on 52 UK herds showing there to be a significant benefit for udder health.


The plan has since been put in place on almost 1,000 UK dairy farms, and early indications are that "similar improvements have resulted," said Mr Hudson.

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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.