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Dog owners urged to be vigilant over festive treats
The Kennel Club is urging owners to remain vigilant this December to avoid an unnecessary veterinary bill.
New research shows dogs are more than half as likely to consume toxic foods in December. 

Dogs are 53 per cent more likely to be treated for eating human food that is poisonous to them, or ingesting ‘foreign bodies’, in December, compared to any other month of the year, according to new research.

Figures released by The Kennel Club - collected by the organisation’s insurance partner - also show that December has consistently been the highest month for intoxication claims since 2015, with the highest claim reaching over £1,600 following a dog eating a mince pie. 

It comes amid further research from The Kennel Club that reveals two in five (40%) dog owners are worried about how they will care for their dog if the cost of living continues to rise. Recent findings from Dogs Trust suggest that the most significant financial concern facing dog owners is affording veterinary bills.

In light its findings, the Kennel Club is urging owners to remain vigilant, not only to protect the nation’s dogs, but also to avoid unnecessary veterinary bills. 

Bill Lambert, health, welfare and breeder services executive at The Kennel Club, said: “While Christmas should be a joyful and exciting time for the whole family, it can often be not only stressful and confusing for our pets, but sometimes dangerous as well, especially if certain treats and presents can land in the wrong paws.

“Of course, many families will also be experiencing additional stress this Christmas owing to the cost of living crisis and may not be able to cope with any additional and unexpected financial burden, such as emergency veterinary treatment. While this can be extremely costly, and not to mention incredibly upsetting for both dogs and their owners, it can also often be avoided as long as owners are vigilant and take necessary precautions.”

 

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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.