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Statistics reveal huge number of stray dogs
Almost four fifths of the country's stray dogs are not microchipped

As the government considers whether to make microchipping compulsory, statistics have been released revealing that almost four fifths of the UK's stray dogs are not microchipped.

According to the figures from the Microchip Alliance Compulsory Microchipping Briefing:

•         Last year over 126,000 stray dogs were
          handled by local authorities - of these
          around 7,500 were put to sleep.
•         77% of stray dogs which local authorities receive are not microchipped.
•         Petlog estimates that 58% of dogs in the UK are microchipped

The public consultation into compulsory microchipping is nearing its end, and the issue of microchipping is on the minds of many. Last year, the Kennel Club  contacted twenty five microchip databases across Europe in order to examine the effects of compulsory microchipping.
 
The research did not take differing national attitudes towards compliance with the law into account, but compulsory microchipping appears to have had a positive impact in Belgium, Denmark, the Netherlands, Estonia, Switzerland and France.

With National Microchipping Month to take place in June, it remains to be seen whether microchipping will become compulsory in this country. 

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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.