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Rise in Stray Dogs
The number of stray dogs is on the rise, says the Dogs Trust.

Over 120 000 stray dogs were picked up by local authorities in the last twelve months – the highest in eleven years – the Dogs Trust has revealed.

New figures suggest that, on average, 345 stray dogs are picked up every day. More than one in 20 dogs – over 7500 in total - were unable to be re-homed and had to be put down, indicating a rise of 18% from the previous year.

The economic climate has been cited as a reason for more and more dogs being given up, as well as an increase in 'status dogs', which are subsequently abandoned. Often, when dogs are reunited with their families, they are still rejected.

The Dogs Trust is calling for the government to introduce compulsory microchipping, which not only has the potential to encourage people to take responsibility for their dogs and help identify those breeding dogs to fight, but could also save taxpayers roughly ￡20 million.

The charity has already begun to offer free microchipping at their 17 rehoming centres.

Adam Levy, manager of a rehoming centre in Canterbury, says: “When people realise how much commitment is involved to dog ownership, they lose interest. It's an easy option just to abandon your dog.”

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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.