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Over 2,000 stray pets neutered in Ukraine
“After war broke out in Ukraine, thousands of dogs and cats were left to survive alone on the streets” – Gregg Tully.
The stray population has boomed since the Russian invasion.

The animal welfare organisation Save the Dogs and Other Animals has successfully neutered more than 2,000 stray cats and dogs in Ukraine.

So far, 1,520 cats and 495 dogs have been neutered, microchipped and vaccinated in the city of Odesa, and provided with food.

Initially, the project had aimed to help 1,000 pets in six months, but the progress being made means that Save the Dogs is hopeful of being able to help 3,000 pets and possibly expand the project to other cities.

The number of stray animals in Ukraine has significantly increased since the full-scale Russian invasion, and neutering has become an animal welfare priority.

Gregg Tully, country director at Save The Dogs and Other Animals, said: “After war broke out in Ukraine, thousands of dogs and cats were left to survive alone on the streets.

“While our priority was ensuring they received enough food, it became critical to prevent them from breeding uncontrollably.

“These puppies would be condemned to a lifetime of suffering. Not only are they located in areas where war is still raging, but many cities are completely deserted and there is no one there to feed them.

“Volunteers are already monitoring a tremendous number of animals, and the food we can send is barely enough to feed them, never mind countless more.”

The project is receiving funding from Blue Cross’s Ukraine Fund, which was launched in 2022 to support the work of partner charities in the war-torn country.

Anna Wade, public affairs manager at Blue Cross, said: “Sadly the war is continuing to have such a devastating effect across Ukraine and there is still much work to do.

“The compassion and dedication of our charity partners Save the Dogs on the ground to rescue pets and care for them day to day, is overwhelming and we’re doing all we can to support their vital work.”

Image © Shutterstock

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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.