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Westminster dog award dedicated to Sir David Amess
Pictured: Sir David Amess with Vivienne.
The 'pawblic' vote award has been renamed in his memory.

An award dedicated to the late MP Sir David Amess has been introduced to the Westminster Dog of the Year competition.

Sir David, who suffered a tragic death in October 2021, was known to be passionate about dog welfare and greatly enjoyed the Westminster Dog of the Year competition, entering several times with his rescue dogs, Bo and Lilly. 

Entering with his dog Vivienne before his death, Sir David was posthumously crowned winner of the 2021 competition, and the competition now wishes to commemorate his legacy of commitment to dog welfare. 

At this year's event, hopeful MPs will have the chance to win the Sir David Amess Pawblic Vote Award, presented to an MP and their dog voted for by the public.

Commenting on the accolade, Sir David's family said: “As a lifelong campaigner for animal rights, we can think of no better recognition of his work than through the renamed ‘Sir David Amess Pawblic Vote Award’. 

“He worked tirelessly throughout his career with organisations such as The Kennel Club and Dogs Trust to secure better animal welfare for the nation’s furry friends.

“We are honoured that The Kennel Club and Dogs Trust have re-named the award after him and he would be thrilled that there is such a wonderful recognition as a lasting memory for him. 

“We would like to thank both organisations for their support and kindness, and we hope that this year’s winner is ready for the ‘pawblicity’ that will no doubt follow from winning such a prestigious award. Best of luck to all the entrants.”

Chief executive of Dogs Trust, Owen Sharp, added: “Sir David was a steadfast supporter of both the work of Dogs Trust and of the Westminster Dog of the Year award, an event which he entered a number of times, with both Dogs Trust dogs and with his own dogs. 

“Sir David’s commitment to improving the lives of dogs and other animals is admirable and we hope that this award will continue to cement his legacy.”

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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...
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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.