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.
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
Welfare breach for sheep shipment
Photo: Jennifer MacKenzie
AHVLA and RSPCA inspected conditions at Ramsgate docks

The Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency and the RSPCA found a welfare breach while inspecting lorry loads of sheep at Ramsgate docks on 6th June, when it emerged that a faulty pump had resulted in hundreds of sheep having no access to drinking water.

It is a legal requirement that all lorries be fixed with a water supply so the animals can be provided with water instantly if so required. The AHVLA issued a warning note and the pump was repaired at the port before the lorry continued its journey.

Dr Julia Wrathall, head of the RSPCA's farm animals science team, said: "Drinking water is one of the essential basics that sheep, or any animals, need during a journey which can potentially be long and hot. It's very concerning that a lorry transporting live animals abroad had a faulty water pump but it's a relief that this was rectified so quickly."

The welfare breach follows the European Commission's rejection of a petition signed by over 400 MEPs and a million supporters calling for a maximum eight hour journey time. 

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

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.