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Funding to support research into human-animal bond
"Human-animal bonds are dynamic relationships between people and animals" - Dr Elizabeth Ormerod.

Projects exploring companion animal loss will be considered

A three-year funding programme to enable research into the human-animal bond has been announced by the Society for Companion Animal Studies (SCAS).

The programme will prioritise animal-assisted interventions (particularly with children), the human-companion animal relationship and cross-disciplinary working. Projects exploring companion animal loss and the bond-centred veterinary practice will also be taken into consideration, as will those that consider older people, children or people with diverse needs.


Dr Elizabeth Ormerod, SCAS chairman, explains: “Human-animal bonds are dynamic relationships between people and animals. They are usually symbiotic, providing psychological and physical benefits to both parties. Research projects, such as those we will be funding, are essential to add to the growing evidence base which can be key to encouraging such relationships, and also to supporting these if under challenge.”

The funding will consist of five x £10k maximum pump priming research awards, 2 x £1.5k undergraduate student project awards and a £1.5k maximum award to support open access publication.

Applications are now open and close on 31 March 2020. Visit www.scas.org.uk for further details and information on how to apply.

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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.