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EmailIphone Application    Posted: 25th November 2025
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Rebrand marks fresh chapter for Royal Kennel Club
The RKC is expanding its focus from pedigree dogs to all dogs across the UK.

New dog census will guide research and support new initiatives.

The UK’s largest organisation devoted to dog health and welfare has today (25 November) relaunched as The Royal Kennel Club (RKC).

The rebrand follows the honour of being granted the Royal prefix by His Majesty The King in 2023, and will be marked with a special “21-dog salute” outside Windsor Castle.

In a significant shift, the RKC is expanding its focus from pedigree dogs to all dogs across the UK. Central to this is the launch of the UK’s largest-ever Dog Census, a landmark project designed to shape the future of dog health and ownership. 

The Census will collect invaluable data on dog health, behaviour, lifestyle, and wellbeing, guiding scientific research and supporting new initiatives. 

Alongside the Census, the RKC has announced a new, digital platform to support dog owners through a range of products and services, set to launch in February 2026.

Jannine Edgar, CEO of The Royal Kennel Club, says: “This is a landmark moment for dogs in the UK. Becoming The Royal Kennel Club is not just an honour, it’s a responsibility to uphold standards not just of dogs but for dogs. 

“We are opening our doors wider than ever before, inviting every dog owner to be part of a movement that puts canine health, happiness, and inclusion at its heart. The Dog Census, the evolution of Crufts, and our expanded health programmes are just the beginning. Every dog matters, and together, we can shape a better future for them all.”

She added: “The granting of the Royal prefix, and the 21-dog salute tribute, reflects the deep and enduring bond between dogs and people, including generations of Royalty; a relationship The Kennel Club has proudly championed for 150 years and is excited to continue for generations of dogs to come.”

Image (C) Shutterstock/Daria Shvetcova. 

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Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

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News Shorts
BSAVA publishes fifth Manual of Canine and Feline Neurology

The BSAVA has published the fifth edition of its BSAVA Manual of Canine and Feline Neurology.

The new edition has been reviewed and updated, including new developments in diagnostics, therapeutic approaches and clinical decision-making. It is structured to support clinicians through diagnosis, treatment and long-term management.

The guide features five new chapters covering acute myelopathies, chronic myelopathies, emergency protocols, neurotoxicology and neuro-oncology.

It also includes over 100 videos, including demonstrations of neurological examinations, clinical presentations and diagnostic procedures.

Nicola Lloyd, publishing manager, said: "Whether you're a general practitioner seeking practical guidance, or a specialist aiming to refine your expertise, this edition remains an indispensable reference for anyone involved in the care of neurologically compromised dogs and cats."