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Vets Climbing High for Dogs Trust
Two veterinary workers have set themselves the ultimate fundraising challenge for the national canine charity Dogs Trust: climbing the three highest mountains in the UK in just 24 hours.

Kelly Smith and James Hewitt will climb Ben Nevis (1344m) in Scotland, Scafell Pike (978m) in England and Snowdon (1085m) in Wales in a 24 hour challenge taking place over 13th and 14th May.

Vet Nurse Kelly Smith explains: “I’ve never done anything like this before so I’ve been preparing for the last three months by doing circuit training, jogging, cycling and of course dog walking! It will be a huge personal achievement if I successfully complete the challenge, as well as an exciting way to raise vital money for Dogs Trust.”

Kelly and James will be joined by nine other Dogs Trust veterinary staff from across the country, including Veterinary Director Chris Laurence. Between them they aim to raise £2000 for the charity. To sponsor the team please click here.

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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.