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Companion animals genetic conditions site launched
UFAW launches new resource website

A new website on genetic conditions has been launched by the Universities Federation for Animal Welfare (UFAW) to improve the welfare of companion animals. The website will provide vets and pet owners with information on hereditary problems in companion animals and explanations about precisely how these ailments impact the quality of the animal's daily lives.

The site covers more than 70 conditions in approximately 90 breeds of companion animals. This includes 54 conditions in 47 dog breeds. The website was designed with the objective of helping people considering buying a new pet in mind. The prospective owner can research which strain, species or breed has vulnerabilities to particular conditions and can therefore ask the appropriate questions before sale to prevent perpetuation of the conditions.

Commenting, UFAW's Chief Executive and Scientific Director James Kirkwood said "When, tens or hundreds of years ago people bred for the particular shapes, sizes and appearances that appealed to them, they had no idea that they were sometimes selecting for serious diseases at the same time. With advances in knowledge of animal diseases the serious nature of many of these problems has come to light."

The new site can be accessed here

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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.