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Blue Cross reminds pet owners of Easter chocolate dangers
In 2021, Blue Cross treated 40 pets who had been rushed into their animal hospitals with suspected poisoning from eating chocolate.

An award-winning chocolatier has teamed up to spread the message.

National pet charity Blue Cross has collaborated with Paul A Young, an award-winning chocolatier, to remind pet owners of the danger that chocolate can pose to pets this Easter.

Paul A Young, chocolatier, pâtissier and television personality, urged pet owners to keep chocolate away from pets: “Chocolate is of course a big part of my life, and so is my beloved dachshund Billi - but very importantly, the two must always be kept apart!

“With Easter coming up I want to remind those with dogs and cats, that while us humans are looking forward to eating our delicious Easter eggs, chocolate must never be given to our pets. 

“By ensuring that all chocolate eggs and treats are kept well out of their reach, everyone can enjoy a safe and happy Easter together.”

Blue Cross shared a link to advice on chocolate, and Caroline Reay, head of Veterinary Services at Blue Cross, said: “Whilst it is a delicious treat for humans, chocolate can be extremely toxic to cats and dogs and should never be fed to them.

"It contains a chemical, theobromine, which is a bit like caffeine and is toxic to dogs and cats.

“As a general rule, the darker the chocolate, the higher the levels of theobromine become. It really is best to avoid your pets getting access to any sort of chocolate.

"If you have seen your pet eat something that they shouldn’t, don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Call your vet immediately and ask for their advice.”

 

Images (C) Blue Cross

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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.