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Small furries still misunderstood, says charity
rabbit
Basic care mistakes are still being made, such as housing pets with the wrong species and providing the wrong housing or bedding.
Owners are still making basic mistakes in the care of small furry pets

More work needs to be done to improve the care of the UK's small furry pets, according to staff at Wood Green, the Animals Charity.

While the care of pets such as rabbits and guinea pigs has improved, the charity says many owners continue to make basic mistakes, including underestimating the cost of keeping them. Lifetime costs can average more than £5,500 not including the cost of any emergency veterinary treatment.

Marie Channer, Wood Green's head of small animals, said owners often mistakenly believe a small furry pet will be easier and cheaper than a dog or cat.

She added: "Sadly we still see so many very basic mistakes being made which could impact hugely on small animal wellbeing, such as accommodation being too small, supplying the wrong bedding, and even pets housed alongside the wrong species.

"So, although we have seen big positive changes over the years, there is still so much more work to be done to educate the small pet owners of the UK."

The charity attended the National Pet Show in Birmingham to give presentations and help advise owners on the health, diet, housing and companionship needs of small pets. The stand also featured a guinea pig garden filled with pet friendly plants and 10 of the charity's guinea pig residents.

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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.