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: 25th October 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
Vets and farmers support cull postponement
Agree autumn cull would have been 'irresponsible' 

Major farming organisations and the British Veterinary Association (BVA) have given their support to the decision to delay the badger culls until late spring next year.

Despite the frustration the postponement will cause amongst farmers, farm leaders and vets agree that proceeding with the cull this autumn would have been 'irresponsible'.

Harry Cotterell, President of the Country Land and Business Association, cited a 'regrettable' series of factors that had conspired to make the cull impossible this year, saying "it would be irresponsible to press on with the trials if the required 70 per cent cull target cannot be met within the remaining time available."

However, he added: "It is vital the cull happens next year and we back the secretary of state's absolute commitment to going ahead with the trials then as part of the government's programme of measures to fight the terrible scourge of bovine TB."

Peter Jones, President of the BVA, commented: "Although vets and farmers in the bovine TB endemic areas will be frustrated by the delay in implementing the pilot badger culls, we are relieved DEFRA has firmly stated there has been no change in government policy.

"The science has not changed. Scientists agree culling badgers reduces the levels of infection in cattle herds, and we know no country has dealt with bovine TB without tackling the disease in wildlife."

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.