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
Badger cull timing in question
The timing of proposed autumn badger culls may be in doubt

DEFRA's badger culls may be postponed due to legal challenges, weather problems and the recent political changes.

The culls were due to take place in the early autumn, once the London Olympics were over, however DEFRA is facing a number of possible delays.

A number of legal challenges have arisen regarding the policy which are yet to be decided.

The Badger Trust have appealed against the High Court's decision to allow the policy, and a formal complaint has been submitted to the Council of the Bern Convention by Humane Society International/UK, despite DEFRAs assurance that they will comply with convention.

There has also been added pressure from numerous high-profile celebrities, conservationists and wildlife campaigners.

A new DEFRA ministerial team may further delay plans and National Farmer's Union president, Peter Kendall, believes that the poor weather and subsequent late farming season has also affected preparations.

Mr Kendall said: "Although farmers will be devastated if [the cull] is delayed, getting it right is essential - rushing it and getting it wrong could undermine it forever."

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.