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Canine study offers insights into treatment of human OCD
Doberman
CCD compulsions may include repetitive tail chasing, excessively grooming, and flank and blanket sucking.

Scientists identify genetic pathways that exacerbate the condition

Researchers have uncovered genetic pathways in Doberman pinschers that increase the severity of canine compulsive disorder.

Published in the International Journal of Applied Research, scientists hope the discovery will lead to better therapies for the treatment of obsessive compulsive disorder in humans.

Lead author Nicholas Dodman from Tufts University’s School of Veterinary Medicine, said: “Dogs naturally suffer complex diseases, including mental disorders that are similar to those in humans. Among those is canine compulsive disorder (CCD), the counterpart to human obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD).”

OCD is listed by the World Health Organisation as among the 20 most disabling diseases. Estimated to affect around one to three per cent of people, the condition is often characterised by time-consuming repetitive behaviours and distressing thoughts.

CCD compulsions may include repetitive tail chasing, excessively grooming, and flank and blanket sucking. However, therapies for compulsion disorder in dogs are not as effective as they could be.

To read more about the study visit vetcommunity.com (VC login required).


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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.