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Dogs Trust Issues Advice to Pet-Owners
As temperatures soared over the weekend, Dogs Trust is reminding dog owners that their canine companions can suffer in the heat.

Chris Laurence, Veterinary Director of Dogs Trust says: “Whilst enjoying fun in the sun please remember that dogs can suffer from the same problems that humans do including overexposure to the sun, overheating, dehydration and even sunburn. I urge dog owners to keep their hounds happy this summer by following Dogs Trust’s advisory points.”
 
NEVER leave your dog in the car as this can lead to quick fatality, even parking in the shade is very dangerous as temperatures in the car can still soar
If you are travelling anywhere in the car with your dog make sure you have a supply of water
 
Walk your dog in the morning and evening when the weather is cooler and make sure shady spots and drinking water are available.

Clip the fur of particularly hairy hounds and apply canine sun cream to areas most likely to burn: ears, nose, and belly. Human suncream can be toxic so buy a special pet version from your local pet shop.

Be extra vigilant with older, short nosed and overweight dogs as they are more prone to overheat. In a real emergency wet your dog thoroughly with cool water, never iced, and use a household fan to blow cool air over their head and body.  Seek urgent veterinary attention.
 
If your dog takes a dip in a lake or pool make sure you rinse him as soon afterwards as possible. Never allow your dog to drink from ponds unless the water is clear as algae in the water can produce toxins that are rapidly fatal.
 

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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.