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Good breeder Standard
Formal recommendations have been set out for dog breeders to adhere to

The Advisory Council on the Welfare Issues of Dog Breeding has launched its Standard, giving formal recommendations to dog breeders.

Minimum standards to provide good health and welfare for all dogs involved in breeding are set out in the Standard, which will also help people find good breeders.

The Standard gives advice on how to achieve the minimum standards that the council feels are essential. It is designed to protect both breeding stock and their puppies, and will be updated regularly to coincide with the best available science.

Furthermore, the Standard covers aspects such as socialisation, daily routine and feeding, and highlights the importance of the recently launched puppy contract and puppy information pack (PIP).

"We welcome the standard which applies to all types of dogs and all types of breeder," said British Veterinary Association (BVA) president, Carl Padgett. "Sadly, all too often veterinary surgeons see the devastating consequences of poor breeding practices.

"The Standard offers clear, sound, practical guidance and is a big step forward in trying to improve the environment in which dogs are being bred."

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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.