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Equine vets 'at risk of overwork and burnout'
Ashley hopes the findings will promote action within the equine industry to protect the mental health and wellbeing of its community.
Study highlights the impact of COVID-19 on the wellbeing of the equestrian industry.

Equine vets could be at risk of overwork and burnout as they manage their responsibility to protect public health in emergencies, new research suggests.

The study by Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) examined how the challenges of COVID-19 impacted equine vets, horse owners, farriers and welfare centre managers.

To understand how the pandemic affected different groups, the researchers interviewed 22 members of the equestrian community in Aberdeenshire and two welfare centre managers in England.

Their findings show that the mental health and wellbeing of vets and horse owners were negatively affected during the pandemic, with obstacles to communication and limitations on horse–owner interactions being significant sources of distress and frustration.

However, the study does highlight several positive outcomes for wellbeing during the pandemic, resulting from actions by the equine community to overcome social isolation and financial pressures. 

PhD student Ashley Ward, who led the research, said: “From this study, we have been able to better understand the importance of human-animal interactions and the role that horses played in lessening the detrimental impacts of isolation and anxiety associated with uncertainty around lockdown. 

“It is also of note that the pro-social actions undertaken by individuals to benefit the community had the potential to improve the wellbeing of those undertaking the activities - as well as the community they sought to benefit."

She added: “It is hoped that such information will promote action within the industry to protect the mental health and wellbeing of its community, using actions which combat the issues raised in this research.” 

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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  

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.