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Pesticides Involved in Almost Half of Wildlife Poisoning
Details of the 159 suspected poisoning incidents investigated by the Wildlife Incident Investigation Scheme (WIIS) in Scotland last year have been published and show that pesticides were involved in almost half of the incidents. 

In total, 74 of the 159 incidents showed the use of pesticides, (which amounts to 47 per cent) with 36 out of the 74 of those categorised as the abuse of pesticides i.e. deliberate and illegal attempts to poison animals.

The 'Pesticide Poisoning of Animals in 2009' report from the Science and Advice for Scottish Agriculture (SASA) shows that incidents investigated included:

The approved use of pesticides where a buzzard was poisoned by slug pellets even though the product had been applied in accordance with the label instructions
The abuse of pesticides where a poisoned golden eagle was discovered along with a sheep carcase found to be laced with the same pesticide that killed the eagle
The unspecified used of pesticides where a colony of honeybees died after being exposed to a pesticide normally used to control wasps
The incorrect storage of pesticides

Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and the Environment Richard Lochhead said: "This report highlights the devastating impact that the irresponsible use of pesticides can have on our countryside and I applaud the Wildlife Incident Investigation Scheme in Scotland for their work in investigating these incidents throughout the year.

"The evidence provided by the scheme is also a vital tool exposing crimes against wildlife. The figures suggest that birds of prey continue to be the victims of deliberate poisoning and we will continue to work with the Partnership for Action against Wildlife Crime in Scotland in our efforts to put a stop to these illegal actions.

"Scotland's natural environment is one of our most valuable assets and it is essential that we protect it and ensure that pesticide use is regulated appropriately. The Science and Advice for Scottish Agriculture plays a vital role in monitoring this and helps make our countryside a safer place for us all."

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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.