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RSPCA cared for more than 22,000 animals during 2020 pandemic
Several thousand operations were carried out across 2020, including a procedure to remove a hedgehog's toe.

Charity promotes vital work of 'hardworking' hospitals and centres

The RSPCA has highlighted the continuous, dedicated effort by it's staff and volunteer teams during the pandemic; revealing that more than 22,000 animals were treated in it's hospitals across last year.

Several thousand operations were performed carried out across this period. Additionally, 2,495 animals were neutered, 6,261 vaccinated and 2,027 microchipped.

RSPCA chief veterinary surgeon Caroline Allen said: “2020 was a busy and challenging year for the veterinary profession as a whole and the RSPCA was no exception.

“I'm very proud of the work our fantastic teams have achieved and the procedures carried out by our hardworking hospitals and centres. Our staff have remained dedicated to animals throughout the coronavirus pandemic.

“We're also very grateful to all the vets in private practice across the country who have supported our Inspectorate and animal centres and provided veterinary care for RSPCA animals during this very difficult period.”

The charity treated all manner of animals in need during the pandemic, from abandoned, neglected dogs to a fox with it's head stuck in a sweet jar.

In total, 8,665 animals were seen as inpatients and 13,340 seen as outpatients in the RSPCA's animal hospitals.

The charity is appealing for help to support it's rescue teams who are continuing to help animals in need across the winter. The RSPCA received more than 44,000 calls to it's cruelty line this Christmas and is urging the public to donate and #JoinTheRescue to help it's teams continue to tackle cases of cruelty, abuse and neglect.

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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.