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Kennel Club launches 'Crufts Factor'
Talented dogs sought for new feature

Hot on the heels of the Golden Collar awards the Kennel Club is searching for the next generation of canine stars. Dogs with talent are being sought for the first ever Crufts Factor, to take place at the world’s greatest dog show this March.

Similar to Britain’s Got Talent, but with dogs, Crufts Factor is open to dogs with a talent that is fun for both the dog and the public. Pippa Langhorne and her dog Buddy, who won the hearts of the nation in last year’s Britain’s Got Talent will be opening the competition with an operatic duet in the NEC Arena at Crufts in Birmingham on Saturday 10th March.

People who think their dog has what it takes are asked to post their videos on YouTube and send their links into the Kennel Club. People are encouraged to share their videos, as only those with the highest rating will go on to be shortlisted. The four shortlisted videos that best meet the judging criteria will then go on to compete in front of a judging panel, in the final in the Main Arena at Crufts.

The Kennel Club often hears about dogs that sing along to music, play keyboard or even skateboard and so decided it was time to recognise these special talents.

Commenting, Kennel Club Communications Director Caroline Kisko said “Crufts celebrates dogs through a number of competitions including Friends for Life, Heelwork to Music and Agility. This year we decided to add this new fun dog talent show where dogs can show off their special skills. Crufts is all about celebrating dogs and what better way to do that than by showcasing some of their unique gifts in a fun way. Dogs love to be the centre of attention and they certainly will be in this competition.”

The talent should be both safe and enjoyable for your dog, and finalists will need to be able to come to Crufts on 10th March at the NEC in Birmingham. For further information, please visit www.crufts.org.uk/cruftsfactor.

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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.