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AHVLA issue report on Ramsgate
Procedures altered to prevent repeat incident

After a consignment of 540 sheep were unloaded at the Port of Ramsgate last year, resulting in three sheep drowning and over forty having to be euthanised, farming minister David Heath asked the AHVLA to review its procedures.

The agency was asked to look at its operational procedures and the application of EU welfare rules during livestock transport, to ensure every effort was made to prevent such an incident in the future.

Aspects investigated included the overall handling of the incident, procedures for managing inspections at Ramsgate and how the agency worked alongside other bodies present at the port during inspection. The agency were also requested to look into the contingency arrangements required by the transporter and any additional arrangements that may be needed by the agency as the regulator.

As a result of its review, the AHVLA has issued a report detailing the enhancements to its existing operational practice. According to the report, every consignment passing through Ramsgate will now be inspected, and tougher enforcement of welfare procedures will be employed. The AHVLA plans to implement its own contingency plans in the event of an emergency, should the transporter be unwilling or unable to implement their own plans within two hours.

Procedures will reportedly be improved to ensure an agency vet is within an hour of the port at all times, to assist inspectors should a welfare concern or emergency arise. The AHVLA also plan to work with the operator of the transport vessel in order to develop new contingency measures in the event of an emergency.

Further, the changes that a transporter can make to the journey log of the delivery proper to the export will be restricted. It is felt by the agency this will help to maintain clear records of the animals during the journey.

Click here for the full report.

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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.