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Fire survivor bulldog entered into pet awards
Leo was treated for burns to his stomach, testicles and legs.

Two-year-old Leo defied expectations to recover from extensive burns

A bulldog that sustained horrific burns after being caught up in a fire has been entered into the PDSA’s Pet Survivor Awards.

Two-year-old Leo from Bournemouth was lying under his owner’s caravan when it burst into flames. Thankfully a family friend saw the smoke from half a mile away and hurried to his rescue.

Leo was rushed to the PDSA Pet Hospital in Bournemouth where he was treated for extensive burns to his stomach, testicles and legs. Many of the injuries were so severe that vets warned he could take months to recover.

Initially, Leo required appointments every two days to change the dressings and clean the wounds as they healed. His owner said that he also suffered severe trauma from the incident and that he would often have nights of disturbed sleep.

After weeks of treatment and TLC, Leo defied expectations and made a complete recovery. He has now become one of the first entrants for the PDSA’s Pet Survivor Awards, which champion animals that survive serious injury or illness against the odds.

The awards are open to any pet treated by a vet in the UK for a life-threatening illness or injury between 1 January 2017 and 31 August 2018.

PDSA Vet Olivia Anderson-Nathan said: “Every day, dedicated vet teams save lives and help get our beloved pets back on their paws after serious injury and illness. The PDSA Pet Survivor Awards recognise those extraordinary stories which capture a pet’s fighting spirit, their owner’s dedication and the expertise and skills of the vets and vet nurses involved.

“We welcome entries about death-defying stories of bravery and determination, to recognise the important place our pets have in our lives.”

Pet owners wishing to nominate their pet can do so at www.pdsa.org.uk/petsurvivor

Image (C) PDSA

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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.