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Woman’s Best Friend?
According to a new report, men are being sidelined as small dogs take the number one spot in women’s affections finds new report.

The research, designed to explore the role small dogs play in women’s lives, reveals that women are turning to their four-legged friends for emotional support with one in three cuddling their pet to cheer themselves up instead of talking to their partner.
 
Furthermore, it seems men face being kicked off the sofa in favour of a furry substitut as one in three women say they would rather watch TV with their small dog than partner.
 
Even the prime spot on the mantelpiece is dominated by four-legged family members. A quarter of women say a picture of their small dog now sits in spots formerly held by family photos.
 
Small dogs command the lion’s share of women’s budget for gifts too. A quarter of women confess to spending more on treating their small dogs than themselves.

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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.