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'A dog is for life, not just for lockdown'
Dogs Trust fears there could be a spike in people giving up their dog when life returns to normal.

Online searches for 'buy a puppy' have increased by 120 per cent.

Dogs Trust has temporarily changed its famous strapline to ‘A Dog Is For Life, Not Just For Lockdown’ following a significant rise in online searches to get a puppy during COVID-19.

Figures released by the charity show that online searches for 'buy a puppy' increased 120 per cent in the month following lockdown, while 'adopt a puppy' saw an even bigger rise of 133 per cent.

Whether people are getting a dog for companionship, or because they are around more to train them, Dogs Trust fears there could be a spike in people giving up their dog when life returns to normal.

“Dog ownership can be so rewarding, but it’s also a huge responsibility which is why we are reminding people today that ‘A Dog Is For Life, Not Just For Lockdown’”, said Owen Sharp, Dogs Trust chief executive.

“Like Christmas, when people are at home more, they might think now is the perfect time to get a dog. For some people, this will be the case, but we’re asking people to consider when the lockdown lifts how your life will need to change to accommodate your four-legged friend.”

Dogs Trust has compiled an online quiz for potential new dog owners to help them decide if they are 'dog ready'. Besides questions such as 'Are you ready to forego lie-ins'? It also asks more serious questions about veterinary care and preparing for emergencies.

The campaign is being supported by television presenter and Dogs Trust supporter  Graham Norton, who said: “Please remember that life will go back to ‘normal’ at some point with people returning to work and school, and when this happens you need to think about whether you can still fit a dog into your life.

"Taking a look at Dogs Trust’s ‘are you dog ready’ test is a great place to start if you’re thinking about getting a dog.”

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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.