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National qualification for dog wardens
First of its kind for the UK

The Kennel Club and the National Dog Warden Association (NDWA) have joined forces and launched the UK's first qualification for dog wardens, recognised by City & Guilds, which will set a national standard for those who enforce responsible dog ownership legislation.

The qualification, created in collaboration with the NDWA, is made available through the Kennel Club Accreditation Scheme for Instructors in Dog Training and Canine Behaviour (KCAI).
The KCAI is the UK’s national ‘gold standard’ in dog training and canine services and is backed by City & Guilds, the UK’s biggest name in vocational training.

Sue Bell, President of the National Dog Warden Association, said: “Dog wardens are at the sharp end of dealing with the reality of dog ownership in this country.  We are often in the position of having to advise dog owners on how to tackle problem behaviours with their dogs, such as frequent straying or antisocial behaviour. We are delighted to be working with the Kennel Club to create a qualification which sets the national standard required of dog wardens, to undertake their role in the most professional manner, and which recognises the broad range of knowledge and skills necessary that many dog wardens possess.”

KCAI Chairman, Paul Rawlings, added: “We are extremely pleased that NDWA chose to work with the KCAI in establishing this important quality benchmark for dog wardens. Their considerable expertise and knowledge has ensured the module is of the highest calibre. We now hope that all dog wardens will join the KCAI to benefit from the qualification it offers.”

For more information, please meal Aby Wojcik at the Kennel Club, or Iris Thompson, Training and Events Coordinator at the National Dog Warden Association.



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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.