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Down the rabbit hole…
Why not plan a mad hatter tea party?
The RCVS Trust will take part in National Pet Month (3 April – 3 May) and is asking veterinary practices to put on ‘Alice in Wonderland’ themed fundraising events.

“The Trust aims to improve the health and well-being of dogs, cats, and other popular household pets and over the past five years has put nearly £900,000 into this cause,” says Cherry Bushell, RCVS Trust Director.  “As a small charity we do rely on our supporters – and National Pet Month is a good opportunity to raise money and have fun.”
 
Why Alice in Wonderland as a theme?  “The Trust supports curiosity and a sense of wonder,” says Cherry.  “So we came up with the Alice in Wonderland idea – which is topical and also has lots of scope for fundraising and publicity.”
 
If you’d enjoy hosting a Mad Hatter’s tea party – or raffling off the Queen of Heart’s tarts – then why not register with National Pet Month and take part.  Further information and a free events pack can be obtained from www.nationalpetmonth.org.uk.
 

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

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.