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RSPCA launches campaign as it prepares for 'toughest Christmas yet'
The Join the Christmas Rescue campaign aims to provide support for the RSPCA's frontline workers across this busy period.

Supporters urged to help frontline teams continue to rescue animals

The RSPCA has launched a new Christmas campaign to support its rescue teams, as the charity fears the financial strain from the coronavirus pandemic could result in a rise in pets being abandoned.

Last winter, the RSPCA took in more than 7,000 animals and received more than 204,000 calls, making it the busiest winter period for the charity in at least four years.

The RSPCA is concerned that this Christmas could be its 'toughest year yet' as more people may struggle to care for their pets as a result of the pandemic, causing a potential rise in neglected or abandoned animals.

The Join the Christmas Rescue campaign asks supporters to donate to help frontline teams continue to rescue and care for animals in need across England and Wales.

Dermot Murphy, head of the RSPCA's animal rescue teams said: “It's been a tough year for everyone, including charities, so now more than ever we need your help to continue our vital work saving animals and giving them a voice.

“Our frontline teams are out throughout the winter but they cannot do this alone, which is why we've launched our Join the Christmas Rescue campaign to show how we can all help animals.

“From our animal rescuers, hospital and centre staff, and our volunteers to every supporter who picks up the phone to call us when an animal is in need, or donates to help us continue our work - every one of us is vital to make sure we can rescue the animals who need us the most.”

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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.