Animal welfare during transport, evolution, and perspectives of European Union Legislation and Policy.

In the one health approach, which summarizes the concept that human, animal, and plant health are interdependent and linked to the ecosystems in which they exist, animal welfare assumes an important role. In addition, the Farm to Fork Strategy of the European Union recognizes animal welfare as an essential component. Transport of animals involves a number of issues related to welfare. Animals are subjected to continuous stress, not only during transit on vehicles, vessels, trains, or airplanes, but also during loading and unloading operations. The handling and transport conditions have improved from basic and relatively rudimentary systems, with elements to attenuate the discomfort of animals having been gradually introduced, especially for long-distance transport. Despite several improvements in animal welfare standards during transportation there are still pressing issues in current EU legislation which deserve reviewing. Recently, several scientific opinions on animal welfare, including during transport, have been published by the European Food Safety Agency, following requests by the European Commission. In addition, the European Court of Auditors published its last report focused on animal welfare during transport. These reports underline the need to review current legislation governing the topic and highlight a number of outstanding issues in the European Union and in Third Countries. This article summarizes the history and current status of this complex issue.

New government must prioritise veterinary legislative reform.

Now that the General Election is over, and a new government is in place, BVA is continuing its campaigning efforts to maintain momentum towards reform of the Veterinary Surgeons Act.

Calls for the Welsh Government to back reform of veterinary legislation.

At our annual Welsh dinner, BVA President Anna Judson called on the Welsh Government to support urgent reform of the Veterinary Surgeons Act and prioritise the delivery of key animal welfare legislation.

Hat trick of welfare measures completed.

Fiona Shuttleworth, parliamentary veterinary intern to Lord Trees, reports how three of the four main measures contained in the government's withdrawn Kept Animals Bill were pushed through parliament as separate pieces of legislation just before its dissolution.

Exotic Animal Practice in Europe.

The article delves into the multifaceted landscape of exotic pet medicine in Europe, exploring the impact of Brexit, evolving legislation surrounding exotic pet keeping, and challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis. Regulatory changes, particularly in veterinary medication use, are discussed alongside the emergence of corporate entities in the veterinary industry. The article also underscores the need for improved education in exotic pet medicine and postgraduate qualifications. Overall, it provides a comprehensive overview of the dynamic factors shaping the practice, regulation, and education of exotic pet medicine across European countries.

Legislative Differences Governing Exotic Animal Practice.

Laws regulating exotic animal ownership vary throughout the world. While some differences regarding the legal status and use of exotic companion animals are associated with cultural differences and public perception, some differences may result in different outcome, which could be of interest for other parts of the world. This article provides a general overview of relevant laws pertaining to exotic companion animals in certain developed countries.

Diary of a veterinary parliamentary intern: trade bills and animal welfare standards.

Vet and parliamentary intern to Lord Trees Fiona Shuttleworth discusses proposed implementation of trade partnerships and how animal welfare must be considered in both import and export agreements.

Diary of a parliamentary intern: debate around welfare of fish at slaughter.

Vet and parliamentary intern Harriet Davenport reports on the Veterinary Policy Research Foundation's work to drive awareness of the need to stun farmed fish before slaughter.