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Government to ban plastic straws, cotton buds and stirrers

Environment secretary Michael Gove has announced plans to ban the sale and distribution of plastic straws, cotton buds and drinks stirrers.

Although non-plastic alternatives are readily available, it is estimated that in England we use 4.7 billion plastic straws, 316 million stirrers and 1.8 million plastic-stemmed cotton buds every year. Ten per cent of cotton buds are flushed down toilets and can end up in waterways and oceans.

Exemptions to the ban will apply for those who need to use plastic straws for medical reasons. Subject to a consultation, the ban is expected to come into force between October 2019 and October 2020.

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Veterinary Dispensary Manager Online Course relaunched

News Story 1
 The VMD has announced dates for its next Veterinary Dispensary Manager Online Course.

The event will relaunch on Thursday, 23 October 2025 from 9am to 5pm and will be delivered through an interactive online session.

It is open for anyone involved in a veterinary dispensary role, whether they are new to the topic or looking for a refresh. Attendees will receive vital insights into the safe and compliant handling of veterinary medicines.

The course can be booked online for £495. 

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News Shorts
New guidance for antibiotic use in rabbits

New best practice guidance on the responsible use of antibiotics in rabbits has been published by the BSAVA in collaboration with the Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund (RWA&F).

The guidance is free and has been produced to help veterinary practitioners select the most appropriate antibiotic for rabbits. It covers active substance, dose and route of administration all of which are crucial factors when treating rabbits owing to the risk of enterotoxaemia.

For more information and to access the guide, visit the BSAVALibrary.