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Are livestock animals suffering due to legislation?
The debate over whether the law is having a negative impact on livestock welfare, will take place at the Animal Welfare Foundation forum next month.
The debate over whether the law is having a negative impact on livestock welfare, will take place at the Animal Welfare Foundation forum next month.

Debate to take place at Animal Welfare Foundation forum

Livestock animals could be suffering extended long term pain because legislation is too vague.

The Animal Welfare Foundation is to discuss the impact of legislation surrounding animals on farms, in transport and at slaughterhouses, at its discussion forum on May 12.

Veterinary surgeon David Chennells will argue that a lack of specific legal definitions, and inconsistencies of court decisions has created uncertainty, resulting in animals with chronic lameness or minor wounds, spending too long in recovery pens.

The debate will focus on whether these animals suffer extended long-term pain on farm because of a fear of transporting them.

The forum will also discuss the psychological factors in animal hoarding cases with Fiona McEwen, from the Institute of Psychiatry, while Keith Chandler of the British Equine Veterinary Association, will lead the debate on whether improving the horse passport system will lead to better welfare.

Mike Radford, The School of Law, Aberdeen University, will open the forum discussion on What the offence of causing unnecessary suffering really means.

The forum takes place from 10am to 5pm, costs £85, and is followed by a reception in the House of Commons from 7pm to 9pm. 

For more click here

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Greyhound Board announces change to vaccination guidance

News Story 1
 The Greyhound Board of Great Britain has published new vaccination guidance, with all greyhounds registered from 1 January, 2027 required to have the L4 leptospirosis vaccination, rather than L2.

The change comes in response to the reduced availability of the 'L2' Leptospirosis vaccine across the UK, and aims to support best biosecurity practice across the racing greyhound population.

GBGB veterinary director Simon Gower, said "While rare, Leptospirosis is a serious infectious disease that can affect both dogs and humans, so it is vital that we offer our greyhounds the broadest possible protection.  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Free webinar explores congenital heart disease in dogs

A free webinar is to provide veterinary professionals, dog breeders and pet owners an new insights into congenital heart disease.

Chris Linney, a cardiology specialist and Veterinary Cardiovascular Society (VSC) member, will present the webinar from 7.00pm to 8.30pm on Wednesday, 12 November.

Dr Linney will explore the types, causes and clinical presentation of congenital heart conditions. This will include diagnostic approaches, treatment pathways and emerging research opportunities.

The session is the third to be organised by The Kennel Club, with the VCS, following an introductory webinar and a talk on acquired heart disease. Dr Linney's webinar consists of a one-hour presentation, followed by a 30-minute question and answer session.

Dr Linney said: "This webinar will be an opportunity to deepen understanding - not just of the diseases themselves, but of how breeders, vets and owners can work together to support affected dogs and improve outcomes for future generations."

Click here to register for the webinar.