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Survey reveals lack of owner awareness on allergies
Fewer than one in three aware of common conditions

The results of the Pet Allergy Worldwide Survey (PAWS) have revealed that almost half of pet owners (44% of a sample of 1269) were unaware that pets can suffer from allergies. The sample were drawn from the US, the UK, Spain, Italy, Germany and France.

The PAWS survey also revealed that 51% of owners did not realise that pet allergies were more likely during human allergy season, a fact given particular significance by 46% of the sample suffered from allergies themselves. It was also found that 43% did not know how to determine if their pet was suffering from an allergy and less than a third were aware of common allergic skin diseases in cats and dogs.

Fortunately, the survey also found that 80% of owners wanted to learn more about the recognition and treatment of their pets' allergies. It is hoped that further education and increased awareness may lead to an improvement in the welfare and comfort of the nation's pets during allergy season. 

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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.