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First Colic Awareness Week launches
“Colic is still a huge welfare concern for horse owners due to the suddenness with which it can appear and the potential consequences that it can cause."
Campaign aims to raise awareness of early warning signs 

The British Horse Society and the University of Nottingham are holding the first ever Colic Awareness Week (1-7 April).

Research at the university’s School of Veterinary Medicine and Science found that 90 per cent of horse owners did not feel confident spotting the early signs of colic.

The awareness week, which forms part of the REACT Now to Beat Colic Campaign, aims to raise awareness of the subtle early signs of the condition, to ensure veterinary treatment can be sought quickly.

Nottingham’s research also found that up to one in three cases of colic seen by vets as out of hours emergencies were critical. Out of these cases, more than 80 per cent of horses were euthanised or died.

Since the REACT Now campaign launched, BHA have distributed nearly 30,000 colic packs and nearly 15,000 guides to horse owners and carers.

Emmeline Hannelly, BHS welfare education manager said: “Colic is still a huge welfare concern for horse owners due to the suddenness with which it can appear and the potential consequences that it can cause.

“I think that dedicating a whole week to raising awareness of the issues associated with the condition will help to provide owners with the information they need to make informed decisions about their horse’s welfare.”

Throughout the week, BHS and Nottingham vet school will be providing owners with top tips and videos on how to prevent colic. Veterinary practices that are part of the Vet REACT Colic Champions Scheme will also be sharing information with their clients.

Visit the BHS website for more information.

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

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.