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Increase in missing dogs during fireworks season
"Our statistics sadly show that there really are devastating and long-term consequences when fireworks strike dogs with a sense of terror unexpectedly" - Mark Beazley.
Kennel Club releases statistics and urges legislative changes.

The Kennel Club has today (1 November), released statistics which show an increase in dogs going missing during fireworks season.

Using data from Petlog, a lost and found pet database run by The Kennel Club, the organisation has shared that in the first two weeks of November 2021, 34 per cent of dogs were marked as missing by their owners, in comparison to the following two weeks.

Following the release of these statistics, The Kennel Club, along with other animal and human welfare groups, is holding an event in Parliament today to urge the Government to conduct a review into fireworks legislation.

At the event, the organisation will recommend that fireworks should be restricted to licensed events, that the maximum decibel limit of fireworks and suggest the introduction of a fixed penalty notice system for firework misuse.

Chief executive of The Kennel Club, Mark Beazley, said: “The element of surprise is one of the key factors in what makes fireworks uniquely distressing for dogs. 

“If owners can anticipate fireworks, they can manage this distress in a way that works for their dog, and we’re asking Government to recognise this and review legislation, for the sake of the nation’s pets.

“Our statistics sadly show that there really are devastating and long-term consequences when fireworks strike dogs with a sense of terror unexpectantly [sic], with thousands of dogs running away, behaving out of character and showing clear signs of fear and distress every year.

“Whilst we urge Government to consider our recommendations to protect dog welfare, we are also urging caution from owners this fireworks season. Each dog reacts differently and it is important that owners know what do to and how they can help their four-legged friend and keep them safe.”

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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.