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St Bernard Goes Along for the Ride
Photography: Paul Marriott
A couple have come up with an innovative solution to stop their dog fretting when left alone.

Alan and Tina Valkeith, from Peterborough, were left with a dilemma when it emerged Harley, their pet St Bernard, did not like being left alone at home. If his owners left the house without him, the 12 stone St Barnard would "fret".

Taking him with them, however, proved problematic. The possessors of a two-door Jaguar, the Valkeiths soon discovered that Harley - whose previous owners had given him up due to his size - would not fit inside.

Their solution? The couple purchased a Honda Goldwing motorbike and adapted a helmet, harness, goggles and fluorescent jacket for their dog, in order that he could travel in the sidecar.

"Buying the bike with a sidecar seemed the ideal solution," Mr Valkeith said, after the couple had had to forego joint bike rides in order for one to stay in to keep their pet company.

The couple, self-styled 'fair-weather bikers', said finding dog-friendly equipment was a challenge. But with the ingenious adaption of a helmet, which involved taking an ordinary helmet apart and moulding it to the shape of Harley's head, and the creation of some protective 'doggles', Harley was ready to roll.

"He really does love it," Mr Valkeith said. "If Harley even sees me walking towards the garage he runs after me, and when he hears the bike's engine he know it's time to go out and gets very excited."

 

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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.