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Defra simplifies livestock movement rules
sheep and lambs
Defra are making the changes to simplify the rules on reporting livestock movements and how some farms are registered.

All affected farmers will be notified

Thousands of sheep farmers in England will be contacted by Defra about new sheep movement and recording rules.


Defra says they are making the changes to simplify the rules on reporting livestock movements and how some farms are registered.

The changes include:


  • A new maximum radius for livestock holdings of 10 miles for all species (keepers with more than one holding within a 10-mile radius may apply to merge them into one)
  • 
A new process for the registration of temporary land use

  • The removal of all existing Cattle Tracing System (CTS) links
  • 
The removal of Sole Occupancy Authorities (SOAs)

  • The removal of all existing temporary CPH numbers

According to the National Sheep Association (NSA), Defra will send some 30,000 affected farmers a letter within the next 12 months informing them of the changes.


While these farmers do not need to do anything until they receive that letter, the NSA urge them to start thinking about their options now.

For a full summary of changes happening to the rules for reporting and recording animal movements, please visit www.gov.uk.

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Vets launch new podcast for pet owners

News Story 1
 Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.

The venture, called Vets Talking Pets, provides advice and information on a range of topics, including how to select a suitable pet, where to obtain them and how to get the best out of your vet. Maggie and Vanessa will also discuss sensitive subjects, including end-of-life care, raw food diets and the cost of veterinary care.

The podcast can be found on all the usual podcast sites, including Podbean, Apple, Amazon Music and YouTube. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
RCVS Regional Question Time heads to Edinburgh

The RCVS is to bring its Regional Question Time (RQT) to Edinburgh for 2026.

The event will take place at Novotel Edinburgh Park in Edinburgh on Wednesday, 20 May 2026.

It will begin with supper and drinks at 6.30pm, with an evening programme from 7.30pm. This will start with an update on RCVS' activities, followed by questions and answers with representatives.

RCVS is encouraging an 'open dialogue', in which queries can be raised in a friendly, informal environment.

While discussions are expected to be audience-led, the RQT is expected address major issues including the VSA, the CMA's remedy package and the VN Vision project.

Tim Parkin, RCVS president, said: "It's an important time for the professions, and I'm looking forward to meeting colleagues in Scotland as we navigate this period of change together so we can come out stronger."

Tickets can be booked here.