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Reported increase in dog attacks on livestock
"Recall is truly the one life-saving skill that everyone needs to teach their dogs" - Ryan Neile, Blue Cross head of behaviour.
Blue Cross asks dog owners to consider other animals when out on walks. 

UK animal welfare charity Blue Cross is asking dog owners to 'lead by example', and consider other animals when walking their dog, after an increase in the number of dog attacks on livestock.

As Blue Cross reports, last year saw an increase in the number of dog attacks on livestock, with one Monmouthshire farmer reporting a huge loss of 50 ewes and their unborn lambs. 

Research conducted by the charity has discovered that even though 42 per cent of dog owners agree that dogs should be kept on a lead around livestock, only 25 per cent actually do so. 

Blue Cross head of behaviour, Ryan Neile, said: “While beautiful companions and family friends in our homes, we must not ignore that dogs are predatory animals. Recall is truly the one life-saving skill that everyone needs to teach their dogs. 

“It is vital for not only protecting your own dog from dangers, but also to protect other animal species.

“Blue Cross hopes to inspire people to have fun training recall with their dogs and also bust myths that life on a lead can’t be fulfilling and fun for both dog and owner.”

Of the dog owners surveyed, 19 per cent said that their dog has killed another animal, and a shocking 70 per cent said that they had witnessed someone else's dog out of control. 

Chris Packham, nature photographer, television presenter and author, is a Blue Cross Education Ambassador. He commented: “When we share our lives with dogs, we not only have a responsibility to them but also to the other wonderful species that share our world. 

“All year round, dogs who have not had the right training can pose a potential threat to wildlife and livestock. This is through no fault of their own but simply because of their genetic make-up and what their breeds may literally be designed to do! 

“I support Blue Cross to bust myths that time spent on the lead is somehow denying your dog pleasure or enjoyment. We need to keep all our animal friends safe, and that includes the ones in our home and outside.”

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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.