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One dog seized every 10 minutes in the UK
Staffie
The Staffordshire bull terrier is one of the most rehomed and destroyed breeds.
Staffies top the list of the most seized breeds

Over 36,670 stray dogs were were seized by UK councils in the first eight months of this year, according to new figures. This equates to 151 dogs a day, six every hour, or one every 10 minutes.

The findings, published by Direct Line Pet Insurance, call into question whether Britain really is a nation of animal lovers and whether the 'a dog is not just for Christmas' advice has had any impact.

Topping the list of the most seized breeds is the Staffordshire bull terrier.  They are also one of the most rehomed and destroyed breeds.

Surprisingly, labradors, border collies, and akitas also make an appearance.  Pit bull terriers, Staffordshire bull terrier crosses, jack russell terriers and crossbreeds complete the top five most disposed of breeds.

In 2014, 66,247 stray dogs were seized by local councils in Britain, amounting to an average of 246 dogs per council. Of these, 35,173 were returned to their original owners, 14,956 were re-homed with new owners and 4,231 were humanely destroyed.

Commenting on the findings Madeline Pike, veterinary nurse at Direct Line Pet Insurance, says: “Staffies are the most seized and disposed of breed in the UK yet they make excellent pets. As a breed, they are caring, loyal dogs who trust people completely and are renowned for their love and protection of children.

"Unfortunately, due to the historical connection with fighting and close resemblance to the Pit Bull Terrier, a banned breed in the UK, many consider these dogs as dangerous, but this may often only be the case if the owner is irresponsible or if the dog has been raised to fight.”

Madeline continues: "The numbers speak for themselves - 66,247 stray dogs having been seized in the UK last year is a staggering amount. While it’s encouraging to see that the majority are either rehomed or reunited with their owners, the reality is that many end up having to be euthanised.

"We have a responsibility to ensure we can look after our dogs and ensure they don’t end up roaming the streets.  We urge anyone considering buying a dog for themselves or someone else this Christmas to think carefully beforehand and ensure they are able to care for it.”

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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.