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Blue Cross launches new Big Pet Census
The survey is open until 7 July.
Pet owners urged to help inform the charity’s work.

Blue Cross is asking pet owners in the UK to take part in the charity’s Big Pet Census.

The survey, which is open until 7 July 2024, covers a wide range of topics, from animal welfare issues to how people celebrate their pet’s birthday.

The results will help the charity to better understand the UK’s pet population and shape the support it offers to pets and their owners.

Blue Cross helps thousands of pets and people in the UK each month with a range of services including veterinary care, behaviour advice, pet loss support, and rehoming services. Since it began in 1897, the charity estimates that it has helped more than 38 million pets and their owners.

This will be the second time the census has been held after it was first launched in 2022. The previous Big Pet Census revealed both positives and also areas of concern. While 95 per cent of owners considered their pet as part of their family, 17 per cent of owners said they had not met their pet before they purchased them.

Chris Burghes, CEO of Blue Cross, said: “No one knows your pet quite like you do and now you can share your knowledge to help make this an even better world for pets and the people who love them by taking part in our Big Pet Census.

“Your responses to the census will help us learn as much as possible about pet ownership to inform our work to improve pet welfare and support people.”

To fill in the survey, visit the Blue Cross website.

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.