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Canine separation anxiety study seeks participants
Separation anxiety is thought to have been exacerbated by the coronavirus pandemic.
Dog owners asked to join study into possible treatment.

Researchers at the University of Bristol are looking for participants to take part in a new study into whether pheromone diffusers can be used to help dogs who experience separation anxiety.

The study, funded by Dogs Trust, will involve the researchers placing a diffuser type device in the house of each participant for a period of up to eight weeks. Each house will be visited once a fortnight to carry out observations.

Separation problems in dogs are thought to have been exacerbated by owners spending more time at home during the coronavirus pandemic. Symptoms of separation anxiety can include urinating and defecating, barking, chewing, and pacing when left alone. There is currently no definitive evidence about the cause of the disorder.

The researchers have released the following eligibility criteria for any dog participating in the study:
    •    Dog must be over the age of 18 months
    •    Live in a single dog household
    •    Dog owner should be able and willing to leave their dog alone in one room in the house for a 20-minute separation test
    •    Live in a home environment without the presence of any calming pheromones or supplements
    •    Must have owned their dog for over a year
    •    Dog is clinically healthy
    •    Dog is not receiving pharmacological treatment with psychoactive drugs
    •    Female dogs must not be in season or pregnant.

Ilana Kelland, who is leading the study, said: "Some dogs can find being left on their own an overwhelming and stressful experience. Our study is hoping to find out if the pheromone diffuser being used in a home environment can ease separation anxiety in dogs.”

One of the participants, Stephanie Miller, who is taking part with her dog Cyril, said: "I jumped at the chance to take part in the study as Cyril has had separation anxiety since he was a puppy. Although I have tried lots of things to help him he can't be left alone as he gets very distressed.

"The researchers have clearly explained every step of the study and we’ve enjoyed taking part in the research project. It's also a great opportunity to be involved in research that could potentially help other dogs and their owners too."

Dog owners interested in joining the study should email Ilana Kelland.

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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.