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Practices urged to report “gastroenteritis-like cases” in dogs
Dr Shotton stressed that there was not enough available evidence to speculate on the reasons for the surge in cases.
Call follows surge in dogs becoming seriously ill after beach walks in Yorkshire.

Veterinary practices are being urged to report "gastroenteritis-like cases" in dogs to help researchers investigate a ‘mystery’ bug spreading in parts of North East England.

The call follows reports about dogs presenting with severe vomiting and diarrhoea in Yorkshire, sparking concerns it could be linked to walks on the local beaches. 

Defra said that it is aware of the situation, while researchers from the University of Liverpool’s Small Animal Veterinary Surveillance Network (SAVSNET) are studying a possible seasonal link to the cases.

In an interview with BBC Radio 4 on Friday (14 January), BVA president Justine Shotton called on veterinary practices to report any cases to help researchers in their investigations: 

“BVA is asking vets to report any gastroenteritis-like cases to SAVSNET to help researchers build a clearer picture of the outbreak and to investigate if the spike is part of normal seasonal variation or if a specific virus or bacteria is at play.” 

Dr Shotton stressed that there was not enough available evidence to speculate on the reasons for the surge in cases, or any possible links to the beaches or environment. She advised owners to remain calm and to speak to their vet if they have any concerns.

She said: “We are aware of a recent spike in cases of dogs falling ill from gastroenteritis-like symptoms in several parts of Yorkshire and North East England. Vets see gastroenteritis cases relatively commonly in practice, but numbers seem to be increasing and more widespread than usual.

“At this time, we can't speculate on what might be causing the symptoms, and there is currently no evidence to suggest a direct link between the illness and the dogs visiting the beaches. We’ve heard reports from vets in the area who are really far inland and they are also seeing an increase in these kinds of cases in dogs that have never been to the beach, so I’m not sure yet if we have enough information to make that link.”

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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.