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PhD project to develop skull classification system
Claire hopes her research will also help in the creation of new dental products for dogs.
Project to assess relationship between skull shape and dental health

A pioneering project to develop the world’s first dog skull classification system may assist vets in the identification of dogs that are more likely to develop dental health problems.

Animal welfare and management lecturer Claire Mitchell is undertaking the research as part of her PhD project at the University of Northampton.

Claire is currently collecting photographs of hundreds of dogs so that she can measure their heads. The measurements will then be used to establish groups of head shape that are more appropriate for the canine population.

Claire predicts the system will comprise of around five categories, including dolichocephalic and brachycephalic breeds. In addition to developing a set of skull shape categories, she also hopes her research will help in the creation of new dental products.

Commenting, Claire Mitchell said: “I am almost at my target for public images of their dog’s heads but I’m still seeking more of the flatter faced dogs like pugs and bulldogs. Following on from the measuring phase, I am looking to collect retrospective dental health data on the UK dog population to see whether there are any categories that are more likely to suffer from dental health problems.”

Dogs of all shapes and sizes are invited to take part in the project, instructions can be found at http://www.moulton.ac.uk/Moulton/media/GeneralMedia/Animal/M11514-Dog-Skull-Measuring-ELECTRONIC-FORM_1.pdf

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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.