Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 19th September 2012
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel
Live exports suspended after Ramsgate incident
NSA react after 45 sheep die at Ramsgate

All live exports have been suspended from Ramsgate Port until further notice, following an incident last week which saw 45 sheep die.

On Wednesday 12th September, 43 sheep were put down after a lorry was stopped at the port, and the animals found to be injured. The RSPCA found that none of the animals could reach the drinkers in the vehicle. In a separate incident, a loading area floor collapse while sheep were being taken off a lorry. Six sheep fell into the water but two drowned.

The following day, Thursday 13th September, Thanet council suspended all live exports from the port. The council said it would lift the ban following the construction of suitable facilities for the animals at the port.

Phil Stocker, Chief Executive of the National Sheep Association, said: "Our understanding is that this incidence could have been avoided if regulations and controls, which are effective in the majority of cases, were followed."

Agricultural minister David Heath has ordered an immediate review into the events at Ramsgate and the Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency (AHVLA) has been told to take a zero tolerance approach to enforcing and maintaining animal welfare. 

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

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.