Government extends deadline for neutering XL Bully dogs
In a backdrop of heightened regulations surrounding XL Bully dogs in the United Kingdom, the recent decision by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) to extend the deadline for neutering these canines carries significant implications for owners and animal welfare advocates alike. The announcement by the government to add American XL Bully […]
Children’s book to encourage new generation of vets
In a move to inspire Scottish youngsters to take on a career in veterinary care, a children’s book named ‘Shona the Vet’ is being shared around schools. This is part of a wider campaign, which hopes to improve the number of aspiring vets. More than 2,500 copies of the illustrated book, which follows […]
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 […]
Government plans to reduce animal testing backed by the RSPCA
The government has pledged to reduce animal testing in the UK by injecting money into alternative methods. Official plans will be shared this summer and will include a £20 million investment towards finding other ways to carry out scientific research. Discussed during a Westminster Hall debate on February 19th, the move is in […]
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 […]
Support system rolled out to encourage non-practising vets to return to work
A new support program is being rolled out to aid veterinary professionals and practices in resuming clinical work post career breaks. This initiative was announced at the SPVS Congress in Birmingham, with the British Veterinary Association (BVA) poised to unveil comprehensive information in the upcoming weeks. During the presentation, attendees learned that approximately […]
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 […]
One in seven pet owners are avoiding vet visits due to financial concerns
According to a survey by Dogs Trust, around one in seven pet owners admitted they would avoid a non-essential trip to the vet to save money. The charity also reported that a whopping 45,000 people contacted them about giving up their pet in 2023, amidst the cost of living crisis. Vet bills were […]
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 […]