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Research into dog owner fitness

Survey reveals healthier lifestyle for those with dogs

The Kennel Club (KC) has revealed that dog owners are three times more likely to be in-shape than those who do not own a dog.

Commissioned as part of the club's Get Fit with Fido campaign, which promotes finding enjoyable ways for dogs and their owners to exercise together, the research has highlighted some interesting statistics.

It was revealed that a quarter on non-pet owners and almost 20 per cent of cat owners admit to never exercising, compared with just 12 per cent of dog owners.

The survey also revealed that half of non-pet owners are overweight, compared to just 40 per cent of people who own a dog.

Get Fit with Fido was launched by the KC in 2008, in response to a rise in pet and owner obesity, and has been supported throughout by exercise guru Rosemary Conley.

"It is shocking to see that so many people not only fail to exercise daily but many are failing to exercise at all," she said.

"Too many people see exercise as a chore, but dog owners can enjoy spending quality time walking their dog, or taking part in sports such as agility, whilst keeping fit in the process."

The results have been released ahead of the KC International Agility Festival for dogs, which takes place at Rockingham Castle, Northamptonshire, from August 9 - 11.

Image courtesy of Victoria Ludley, the KC

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Owners and dogs get fit together

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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.