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Support for horse welfare during COVID-19
"The coronavirus pandemic has caused immense difficulties for many areas across the equestrian industry."
Initiative to help alleviate financial strain on BHS riding schools.

A Hardship Fund to support the welfare of horses and ponies during the COVID-19 pandemic has been launched by the British Horse Society (BHS).

The Fund is specifically aimed to help BHS-approved riding schools who have been financially impacted by the outbreak and is designed to support any costs that go towards the health and wellbeing of equines under their care.

Each school has been allocated a payment of £750, made possible by contributions from BHS National, Regional and County Committees. The BHS has also been able to access several of their restricted funds, held aside for welfare specific purposes.

“The coronavirus pandemic has caused immense difficulties for many areas across the equestrian industry and riding schools have been hit particularly hard,” said James Hick, chief executive officer at The British Horse Society. “As their income stopped on March 23rd but the need to look after the wellbeing of horses continues at a high cost.

“The welfare of horses is at the heart of everything the BHS does, and we are working incredibly hard to help support our Approved Ridings Schools through these unsettling times. We hope that this Hardship Fund will help alleviate some of the financial strain riding schools are currently facing, whilst also serving to protect the health and wellbeing of the horses and ponies under their care.”

In addition to the Hardship Fund, the BHS has pledged to waiver all approved centre membership fees for the next 12 months and will be launching a donations appeal in the coming weeks to help provide further support.

The BHS has contacted its approved riding schools with details on how to apply for the funding. Schools that have not yet received communication are encouraged to contact the BHS Approvals team approvals@bhs.org.uk or call 024768 40500. 

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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  

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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.