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Vets for Ukrainian Pets scheme launched
"It will provide a much-needed safety net for families fleeing with their beloved pets" - Ruud Tombrock.
The scheme provides free veterinary care for Ukrainian pets across Europe. 

Thirty-eight European countries, including the UK, will provide free-of-cost veterinary care to the pets of Ukrainian people fleeing the war.

Launched by Humane Society International (HSI) and partners, the service 'Vets for Ukrainian Pets' will cover the treatment costs of up to five dogs, cats, horses or other pets, up to €250 per animal per veterinary surgeon. 

This will help with acute care and medication, rabies and other necessary vaccinations, microchipping and medical examination needed for safe passage through the EU. 

The initiative will run until 21 May 2022, and is open for all licensed veterinary clinics to apply throughout Europe. Clinics wishing to apply can do so at apply.vetsforukraine.com

Executive director of HSI Europe, Ruud Tombrock, commented on the initiative: “In Europe’s biggest refugee crisis since WWII, millions of Ukrainians have had to take the decision to leave their country and flee the war. 

“Along with a few possessions, many are also taking their pet animals, who they cherish as family members. 

“The trauma of war as well as the stress of the evacuation journey, can make animals vulnerable to a variety of illnesses and so HSI’s Vets for Ukrainian Pets program aims to eliminate barriers to accessing veterinary care for the pets of refugees.

“It will provide a much-needed safety net for those families fleeing with their beloved pets so that at no point they feel compelled to leave their pets behind due to concerns about being able to care for them.”

Fully funded by HSI, with support from Mars Incorporated, Vets for Ukrainian Pets will work with Federation of Veterinarians in Europe and the Federation of European Companion Animal Veterinary Associations (FECAVA). 

Veterinary surgeons who participate will be reimbursed by FECAVA in places that the federation has members, including the UK. 

Danny Holmes, FECAVA President Elect said: “We are delighted to partner with Humane Society International and FVE to offer support to refugees’ pets in Europe fleeing the war in Ukraine. 

“It is a testament to the dedication of the veterinary and animal welfare organisations to create such a far-reaching scheme in such a short time.”

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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.