Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.

Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel
RWAF launches campaign on hutch space
Charity urges welfare improvements

The Rabbit Welfare Association and Fund (RWAF) has launched a new campaign aiming to improve the general welfare of the nation's pet rabbits by recommending an expansion of the amount of hutch and run space to which they have access. More information about the campaign and the RWAF's recommendations on adequate hutch space can be found here.

Explaining the charity's position, Veterinary advisor for the RWAF Richard Saunders said "What you see in the wild and what you see in the garden is very different. A lot of people keep a rabbit in a hutch, alone and with no space to exercise. This simply doesn't let them act as they would naturally. Rabbits need to run and jump, and they'd never live alone in the wild."

"A Hutch should be a shelter as part of a bigger enclosure, never the sole accommodation. People get much more pleasure from their pet rabbits when they make a bit of effort to give them the life they deserve. And if you’re thinking of getting a rabbit but can’t commit to meeting their needs fully then you should think again." added Mr Saunders.

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

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.