BVA President calls on Government
The President of the British Veterinary Association (BVA) Carl Padgett has used his speech at the BVA's annual London dinner to call on the Government to protect the UK’s veterinary surveillance network, support better welfare at slaughter, and take action on dog breeding regulations. The Rt Hon Caroline Spelman MP, Secretary of State for DEFRA, also addressed guests, including parliamentarians, veterinary surgeons, and representatives from the agri-food industry, pet industry, welfare charities, research and veterinary education.
Highlighting issues of great importance to the profession, Mr Padgett spoke on the importance of a robust surveillance system in the UK with particular reference to the Schmallenberg Virus, outlined the problem caused by meat from slaughter without stunning entering the mainstream food chain, expressed disappointment at DEFRA's stance on a welfare code for rabbits, and registered his concern on DEFRA's decision to not review existing laws on dog breeding.
The speech also covered the Animal Health and Welfare Board for England, TB testing and TB policy, the EU animal welfare strategy, a ban on wild animals in travelling circuses, compulsory microchipping of dogs, dangerous dogs legislation, veterinary tuition fees, the Veterinary Development Council, veterinary medicines and antimicrobial resistance, and the Legislative Reform Order to amend the Veterinary Surgeons Act.
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
