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Interactive map to tackle dog fouling
The 'Doodoowatch' scheme lets people highlight popular ‘dumping spots’ and upload photographs of the unwanted dog mess.

'Doodoowatch' lets people highlight popular ‘dumping spots’

Residents in a Cambridgeshire have come up with a novel way tackle the problem of dog fouling.

According to BBC News, the problem has become so bad in the village of Wimblington that locals have drawn up an interactive “poo-shaming” map. The scheme, named Doodoowatch, lets people highlight popular ‘dumping spots’ and upload photographs of the unwanted dog mess.

The idea is the brainchild of Wimblington resident Amanda Carlin, who said that it was a “fun way of addressing a serious issue”. When somebody reports a case of dog fouling, a smiley icon appears on the map and the reports are then passed on to the local authorities.

Ms Carlin, a former parish councillor, said that she hoped people would be “shamed” into picking up after their dog. The map will show locals where it is safe and clean to walk with their animals and children, she added.

She now plans to keep a close eye on the scheme to see if the number of dog-fouling reports decline. 

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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.