animal welfare

Phasing out lab animals: how to get involved

Did you know that more than 100 million animals are being used for experimental purposes around the world each year? Not only are these experiments horrifically barbaric, but also not necessarily relevant to helping humans. In this article, we look at the issue in more detail and discuss how you can get involved. Is testing […]

Homeless pet owners: what needs to change?

New research from the United States says that veterinary professionals should not be solely responsible for homeless pet owners.   It also stresses the need for a multidisciplinary approach which would help enhance general knowledge around the specific challenges facing these clients – as well as finding solutions.    They anticipate that the study, featured […]

Cat microchipping to be made mandatory

From June 2024, cat microchipping will be a legal requirement for owners in the UK.    There will be a fine of up to £500 for those who don’t get their cat(s) microchipped by the time they are 20 weeks of age.    Vets – remind your clients of this new legislation, as well as […]

Crackdown on Brucella canis testing and management amidst spike in cases

Tighter testing and management for Brucella canis are being recommended by industry experts as cases continue to rise.  A new joint policy document, penned by four key veterinary groups, outlines the steps necessary to help contain the disease to stop it from spreading to dogs and humans.  These include: Improved awareness Individualised risk assessments for […]

Persian cats less likely to be adopted finds RSPCA

Flat-faced cats are spending more than double the time in rescue centres than other breeds, research from the RSPCA has revealed.    On average it takes 68 days before a persian cat is adopted, compared to domestic shorthair breeds, who usually spend around 29 days in protection before finding their forever homes.   It is […]

CVS Group rolls out new clinical governance framework

The CVS Group has introduced a fresh clinical governance framework with the aim of bolstering the broader professional community.  This 20-page publication received the green light from conference attendees on Friday, November 3, during the company’s annual event.  According to authorities, this document, which outlines a comprehensive six-part definition of “quality of care” and highlights […]

Government bans XL bully dogs in the UK: what you need to tell pet owners

On Friday 15 September, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak pledged to ban American XL bully dogs by the end of 2023. While we are still awaiting further details, you may be wondering what this means for your clients. In this blog, we share everything we know so far and offer guidance on how to reassure owners […]

Puppy yoga: not as cute as it sounds

Puppy yoga has recently garnered criticism due to concerns regarding the welfare and stress levels of the puppies involved. While the intention behind combining yoga and puppies is often to create a joyful and relaxing atmosphere, the reality can be quite different. How does puppy yoga harm the welfare of puppies?  Some of the puppies […]

Push for ban on electronic shock collars

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) is urging vets to call on their MPs over the planned ban on electric shock collars.  While measures have been agreed by the House of Lords, the ban must still be approved by MPs. Hence, the BVA is pushing for vets to put pressure on their local MPs to ensure […]

The Scottish SPCA raises the alarm over animal welfare concerns

The Scottish SPCA has expressed concerns regarding the animal welfare of pets belonging to Gen Z owners, following the publication of its new report. The annual ‘Animal Kindness Index report’, which was produced in collaboration with the RSPCA and the USPCA, found that young pet owners were cutting corners to save money when it came […]