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Telehealth beneficial for feline arthritis, study finds
More than 95 per cent of participants in the study said they would pay for a telehealth visit.
Researchers study how video calls can improve care.

A study of pet owners in the US and Canada has revealed that telehealth could improve care for cats with chronic health issues, specifically feline arthritis.

Researchers at the University of California, Davis, surveyed 106 owners of cats with mobility issues, with some participating in six video appointments. They found that when pet owners can ask questions and get non-medical advice it can be beneficial.

Moreover, more than 95 per cent of participants said they would pay for telehealth visit — although most were willing to pay a little less for an in-clinic appointment. The findings are published in the journal, Frontiers in Veterinary Science.

Study lead Grace Boone, assistant specialist in the UC Davis Animal Welfare Epidemiology Lab, said: “Teleadvice is meant to provide advice and support for caregivers caring for their cats. We found that overall everybody was quite interested in video telehealth for home management of their cats and their mobility issues.”

The pet owners who participated in the home video sessions were asked general questions about their cat’s wellbeing and mobility. Suggestions like elevated food and water bowls or larger litter boxes were offered if the owners asked for advice.

Interestingly, pet owners who participated in these sessions reported that it helped them understand their cats’ needs, making them more confident in how they cared for their cats.

Senior author Carly Moody, an assistant animal science professor at UC Davis, added: “There’s a lot of in-home modifications that can be implemented to increase cat comfort in the home. Telehealth allows veterinary professionals to see and understand the cat’s home environment and make recommendations which can be helpful for the cat.”

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

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.