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Charity in bid to tackle the Staffie's negative image
staffie
A third of the dogs in Battersea's care are Staffies.
Battersea reports a "huge increase" in the number of Staffies it takes in

A Yorkshire rehoming charity has launched a campaign to challenge negative perceptions of Staffordshire bull terriers and raise awareness of the significant number being given up to charities.

Battersea Dogs and Cats Home says it has seen a "huge increase" in the number of Staffies coming into its care. A third of the dogs taken in by the charity are Staffies or Staffie crosses.

Last year, the Hull Animal Welfare Trust alone cared for and rehomed 152 Staffies and Staffie crosses. It currently has 12 in its care looking for new homes. The charity has teamed up with Battersea to show people the breed's softer side.

"We see a large number of Staffie and Staffie crosses coming into our centre," said Amy Bryan, Hull's centre manager. "Any dog can be trained to be aggressive, and sadly Staffies are the victims of a minority of irresponsible dog owners.

"Staffies adore human company and we are determined to show that they make fantastic family companions."

Laura Jenkins, head of animal services at Battersea, commented: "It’s great to have the chance to work with Hull Animal Welfare Trust to spread the word and give Staffies the second chance they deserve."

Hull Animal Welfare Trust will work with many responsible Staffie owners on the campaign.

Amy added: "Thousands of proud and responsible Staffie owners will tell you that Staffies are gentle, friendly dogs and a million miles away from the hard image they have been unfairly tarnished with. We have some great local residents who have rehomed Staffies from us who are tremendous ambassadors for the breed."


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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.