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Vets Rustle Up Treats for War Dogs
Vets in South Tyneside have launched an appeal to support dogs at war.

 Staff at Blythman and Partners veterinary practice have been overwhelmed by the support for its appeal to reward service dogs in Afghanistan.

Animal lovers from all over the North East have donated treats and toys, filling nearly 200 shoeboxes in recognition of the Arms and Explosives Search dogs deployed on the front line.

The appeal was born when Donna Heron, head nurse at Blythman and Partners' South Shields branch, heard accounts of the dogs from a close friend on a tour of duty in Afghanistan.

All eight of the branches have taken part and donations have flooded in, filling twice the original target number of shoeboxes.

Donna said: "We couldn't have imagined just how generous the response to our appeal would be. There have been a lot of personal tributes that are particularly touching - we've even had letters from guide dogs, hoping the dogs in Afghanistan enjoy the toys as much as they do here at home."

The boxes are being sent in batches and are now reaching AES dogs.

Donna expressed her thanks, saying: "We're so grateful to everybody who helped us to exceed our original target of 100 boxes, and we are sure they are being very well received." 

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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.