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On-going concerns for 'status dogs'
Study links violent crime and UK dog trade

Concerns for the welfare of status dogs have been raised again after a study linked these breeds to violent crime in the UK.

The study was conducted by a Middlesex University criminologist Simon Harding, and discovered ties between violent crime on UK streets, and the trading of dangerous dogs for financial gain.

"The issue of status dogs and, more importantly, the irresponsible minority who own and breed these dogs for the wrong reasons, is one that the Kennel Club is particularly concerned with," says Caroline Kisko, Secretary of the Kennel Club.

Commenting on the Dangerous Dogs Act, Kisko adds: "Any poorly trained dog can be dangerous in the wrong hands and unfortunately breed specific legislation has the unintended consequence of turning banned breeds into status symbols, so that they are taken on by the wrong people who train them for the purposes of fighting or aggression."

The organisation have called for the government, police and dog welfare organisations to "work together to push for more preventative measures for dealing with irresponsible dog owners, and to ensure that a system is in place to better protect the public, dog owners and non-dog owners alike, and the welfare of dogs."

Click here for further information on the status dogs study.

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.