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Progress for Freedom Foods
Third of farmed pigs now reared under scheme

Freedom Food, an RSPCA-monitored scheme, has reportedly seen an upsurge in the number of pigs being reared under its welfare standards.

The scheme was launched in 1994, with the aim of improving the welfare standards of farmed animals. On the 19 April, it was announced that nearly a third of farmed pigs are now being reared under the scheme.

Over the last three years, the number of pigs being reared according to RSPCA welfare standards has risen by nearly 50 per cent, with around 948,000 more pigs reared under the scheme in 2012 compared to 2009. David Squair, chief executive of Freedom Food regards this as "great progress."

He added: "It is clear that British consumers remain firmly committed to farm animal welfare, despite the difficult economic climate.

"This news also really reinforces the fact that people really do have the power to bring about positive changes to farm animals' lives through what they buy at the supermarket and choose to buy in restaurants.

"The more people demand higher welfare, the more farmers will rear to higher welfare standards and the more animals will benefit from better lives."

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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.