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Vets urged to advise new owners on behaviour
First consultation is ideal for discussing training, says UKRCB

With thousands of puppies and rescue dogs set to enter new homes over the Christmas period, the UK Registry of Canine Behaviourists (UKRCB) is urging vets to include a discussion on training and potential behaviour problems in their first consultations with owners.

Initial visits to practice for health checks or vaccinations are, according to UKRCB, an ideal time for veterinary surgeons to educate new owners about behaviour.

The registry is a nation-wide network of advisors in canine behaviour, who provide a referral service for veterinary surgeons and owners.

With legislation relating to dogs looking set to become stricter, the need for professional advice has never been more important, says Lisa Graham, the UKRCB's press officer.

"New dog owners must view their dog's behaviour as importantly as they view their dog's health," she says. "People now have a greater responsibility to ensure that their dog is well behaved and the first trip to the vet is a perfect time to find out about local advisors who can be contacted for help.

"Christmas is the busiest time for new dog ownership with many people choosing to rehome a dog or bring a new puppy into the home."

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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.