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TV appearance wins new home for Staffie
Image Buddy and the Saluks
Buddy with new owners, Beverley and Steve Saluk
Three-legged Buddy re-homed thanks to Battersea's ITV show

Battersea's three-legged Staffordshire bull terrier, Buddy, has finally found a new home in Kent after winning the hearts of the nation on ITV's Paul O'Grady: For the Love of Dogs at Christmas.

Viewers fell in love with eight-year-old Buddy and Battersea Dogs and Cats Home says it was inundated with calls offering him a new home after he appeared on the Christmas Day special of the charity's hit TV show.

The charity's re-homing co-ordinator, Carly Perry, commented: "It’s fantastic to see Buddy go to a wonderful home as a direct result of our Paul O’Grady: For The Love Of Dogs Christmas special. We knew once someone saw his soft and cuddly side it wouldn’t matter about his missing leg. He doesn’t let it hinder him in the slightest!"

Buddy had been in the charity's care since his owner was made homeless in October 2013 and he instantly won over staff and volunteers with his affectionate nature.

His charming character twice landed him on primetime television - on the festive special of Battersea's ITV show and Paul O'Grady's daily chat show, where he met Michael Buble.

After seeing Buddy's TV appearance, Beverley and Steve Saluk from Erith in Kent, contacted Battersea and theirs was one of dozens of enquiries. As previous Staffie owners based in rural Kent, they were the perfect match for Buddy.

Steve Saluk said: "We’re just over the moon with Buddy and feel so privileged to be looking after him - he’s such a special Staffie. My wife was in tears watching the show and we knew straight away he was the dog for us.
 
“We’re so grateful to Battersea’s foster carers who looked after him while he was waiting for a home to go to. He’s really affectionate and loves nothing more than jumping on the sofa for cuddles with us."

The festive special of Paul O'Grady: For the Love of Dogs attracted 6.5 million viewers when it aired on Christmas Day at 5.15pm.

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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.