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Blue Cross hosts dog welfare event at Parliament
The event was sponsored by Steve Race MP.
Over 70 MPs attend session held by the charity.

MPs have attended a special event on dog welfare hosted by Blue Cross at the House of Commons.

The drop-in session, which took place on 13 November, was attended by 76 MPs who heard about the charity’s manifesto for improving the welfare of the estimated 11.1 million dogs in the UK.

Among the legislative changes the manifesto calls for are the introduction of a system of registration and licensing for dog breeders, the end of breed-specific legislation for dogs, tougher penalties for people who fail to control their dogs, and a ban on greyhound racing.

The charity also wants the government to look into regulating dog behaviour and training services. Currently anyone, regardless of qualifications or experience, can set themselves up as a dog trainer or behaviourist. Blue Cross also wants to see a licensing system introduced for dog walkers, groomers, and boarders.

Becky Thwaites, Blue Cross head of public affairs, said: “We were delighted that so many MPs joined us and that many are as passionate as we are to improve the lives of the nation’s dogs.

“Our manifesto charts the course of a dog’s life, highlighting the areas where legislative change is needed to ensure all pets are happy and healthy in a loving home.”

MP Steve Race, who sponsored the event, added: “We are known as a nation of animal lovers but when it comes to pet welfare so many things can be improved. I am supporting the Blue Cross with their manifesto and will be encouraging fellow MPs to do the same.”

Image © Blue Cross

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FIVP launches CMA remedies survey

News Story 1
 FIVP has shared a survey, inviting those working in independent practice to share their views on the CMA's proposed remedies.

The Impact Assessment will help inform the group's response to the CMA, as it prepares to submit further evidence to the Inquiry Group. FIVP will also be attending a hearing in November.

Data will be anonymised and used solely for FIVP's response to the CMA. The survey will close on Friday, 31 October 2025. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Free webinar explores congenital heart disease in dogs

A free webinar is to provide veterinary professionals, dog breeders and pet owners an new insights into congenital heart disease.

Chris Linney, a cardiology specialist and Veterinary Cardiovascular Society (VSC) member, will present the webinar from 7.00pm to 8.30pm on Wednesday, 12 November.

Dr Linney will explore the types, causes and clinical presentation of congenital heart conditions. This will include diagnostic approaches, treatment pathways and emerging research opportunities.

The session is the third to be organised by The Kennel Club, with the VCS, following an introductory webinar and a talk on acquired heart disease. Dr Linney's webinar consists of a one-hour presentation, followed by a 30-minute question and answer session.

Dr Linney said: "This webinar will be an opportunity to deepen understanding - not just of the diseases themselves, but of how breeders, vets and owners can work together to support affected dogs and improve outcomes for future generations."

Click here to register for the webinar.