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New-look resource for puppy buyers
The Puppy Contract provides advice on whether a puppy is a right choice for the individual or family.
The Puppy Contact explains the dos and don’ts of buying a puppy

As stronger animal welfare legislation comes into force, the BVA and the Animal Welfare Foundation have launched a new-look resource to encourage prospective puppy owners to buy from responsible dealers.

The Puppy Contract provides a step-by-step guide to the dos and don’ts of buying a puppy and is designed to help anyone buying or breeding puppies to do so responsibly. Supported by leading animal welfare charities, it consists of an information section about the puppy and its parents (to be filled in by the breeder) and a legally binding contract for sale between the buyer and the breeder.

The Puppy Contract also offers advice on whether a puppy is a right choice for the individual or family, the costs of owning one, where to get a puppy and the right questions to asks. Other sections include tips on how to spot a puppy dealer and an overview of puppy breeding laws in the UK.

Animal Welfare Foundation chairperson Chris Lawrence said: “Bringing a puppy into your life is a huge commitment and choosing where to buy your puppy from is a decision that will stay with you for the dog’s lifetime.

"The Puppy Contract is a unique resource, designed to help guide you through the process of finding a puppy which has been bred with the best chance of living a healthy and happy life. We urge anyone looking for a new dog to take their time and do plenty of research and always use The Puppy Contract.”

British Veterinary Association president and AWF Trustee Simon Doherty added: “Animal welfare is always the top priority for vets, and we believe that starts right at the beginning of a pet’s life.

“We’d encourage anyone thinking of getting a new puppy to speak to their local veterinary practice for advice on the right dog for them and use The Puppy Contract to ensure they are buying a healthy, happy and well-socialised puppy. If a seller is not willing to provide the information listed in The Puppy Contract, then you should walk away and report concerns to local authorities otherwise you risk perpetuating irresponsible dog breeding.”

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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.