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Police campaign to tackle dangerous dogs
dog
Thirty-one offences have been recorded in Stevenage this year, compared to 11 in the same period last year.

Education campaign launches in Stevenage after hike in attacks

A police campaign has been launched in Stevenage to educate residents following a hike in dog attacks this year.

A total of 31 offences under the Dangerous Dogs Act have been recorded in the town since January, according to figures reported in the Herfordshire Mercury, compared to 11 offences from the same period last year.

"We have seen an unprecedented rise in the number of incidents being reported to us relating to dogs in Stevenage," Sergeant Manjit Khela from the Stevenage Safer Neighbourhood team told the Hertfordshire Mercury.

“This takes up a huge amount of police time and I’m sure if people had a better understanding of the laws relating to dogs, some of these incidents would be avoided."

New dangerous dog laws came into force in May this year. An amend to the Dangerous Dogs Act meant owners can now be prosecuted if their dog is dangerously out of control on private property. Previously, the law only applied to public spaces.

In addition, jail sentences were extended for the owners of dogs who attack, injure or kill people. Owners can now also serve up to three years in prison if their dog kills an assistance dog.

The education campaign was launched at Stevenage Town Square on October 4. Members of the police, council representatives and canine charities attended to give advice on responsible dog ownership and changes to the law.

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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.