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RSPCA Welcomes Introduction of Animal Welfare Codes
The RSPCA welcomes new government guidelines for pet owners on how to look after their dogs, cats, horses and primates, which have come into force today.

The welfare codes of practice have been introduced by the government in England to help make sure the needs and requirements of people’s pets are met.

The charity has long backed the plans for the introduction of the codes in England to provide clear information to help owners protect animal welfare.

Claire Robinson, government relations manager, said: “The RSPCA welcomes the introduction of the codes and hopes that they will make a great difference to help owners understand what their pets need. The Society has been working closely with the government to develop the codes to ensure that they are appropriate, effective and workable and we think that they are succinct enough for owners to read and comprehend.”

Inspectors will be able to properly measure the welfare of an animal against specific guidelines.
The RSPCA’s 300 inspectors will be using the codes on a regular basis to help in their day to day work throughout England. Whilst breaking the codes will not be an offence, the information in them can be used by a court to illustrate whether an owner was complying with the Animal Welfare Act.

RSPCA superintendent Tim Minty said: "The codes will first and foremost be an invaluable educational tool for everyone involved in animal welfare but they will also play a vital role to help RSPCA inspectors identify any problems of neglect or cruelty under the Animal Welfare Act. Inspectors will be able to properly measure the welfare of an animal against specific guidelines so that they can accurately assess whether an animal's needs are being properly met. The codes will also help inspectors to advise the person responsible for the animal on how to look after their pet so the RSPCA and owners can work together to make sure the animals are happy and healthy."

The codes expand on existing legislation set out in the Animal Welfare Act. The advice falls into the following sections:
  • The need for a suitable environment
  • The need for a suitable diet
  • The need to be able to exhibit normal behaviour patterns
  • The need to be housed with, or apart form, other animals
  • The need to be protected from pain, suffering injury and disease.

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New roadshow brings free flea and tick checks to dog owners

News Story 1
 A nationwide roadshow offering free, personalised parasite risk assessments and flea and tick checks will be visiting popular dog events across the UK.

The All About Dogs shows in Norfolk and Knebworth, will be among the first events to host MSD Animal Health's Big Parasite Check campaign, which aims to address common misconceptions and highlight the importance of year-round parasite protection.

A total of six dog-friendly events will feature the free clinics from summer through to winter. Full roadshow dates and locations are available on The Big Parasite Check map or through your local MSD Animal Health Representative.  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
BVA urges 'continued vigilance' over bluetongue

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has urged vigilance following a concerning rise in Bluetongue (BTV) cases in sheep and cattle.

In a recent statement, the BVA noted that members are reporting more severe clinical signs and higher mortality rates than in previous years.

'We know that farm vets are working hard to support farmers and animals affected by this outbreak, during what is an extremely difficult time for all involved,' they stated. 'Continued vigilance to identify disease early is vital and vaccination remains the best way of protecting animals from this disease.'