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National Pet Month launches 2021 campaign
The theme of this year's National Pet Month Campaign is 'Pets and People: Caring for Each Other'.
Event aims to raise vital funds for UK pet welfare charities and organisations.

Veterinary practices are being urged to set up online fundraisers for UK pet charities and rescue centres as part of National Pet Month (April 1-May 3).

As the nation starts to ease out of lockdown, National Pet Month (NPM) aims to celebrate life with pets, highlight the importance of responsible pet ownership and recognise the positive impact of pets on our mental and physical health.

This year's theme is ‘Pets and People: Caring for Each Other’, and practices are being urged to share the hashtags #NationalPetMonth21 or #NPM21 in your social posts, tagging NPM and other relevant organisations.

Previously a registered charity, NPM has been restructured as an educational awareness community for pet lovers. The UK NPM campaign will, however, continue to run from April to May every year.

“This means we can dedicate all our energy to education, which is where our passion and expertise lies,” explained Michael Bellingham, NPM spokesperson and chief executive of the Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association.

“We will continue to spread important messages around responsible pet ownership and how to keep our companion animals happy and healthy all year round. We'll also bring you inspiring and fun pet stories through our social channels and website, plus lots of advice and support from our vet and pet professional colleagues.”

He continues: “Making these changes enables us to encourage our amazing community of pet lovers, to help spread the message on responsible pet ownership and continue to raise vital funds for their favourite UK pet welfare charities and organisations. 

“These are difficult times, and these charities need our support now more than ever.”

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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.