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Dog dietary requirements
Survey leads to canine health focus

Concerns have been raised after a survey found that 40 per cent on UK owners feed harmful food to their dogs.

The survey's report, Paws for Thought, showed that owners regularly feed their dogs chocolate, sausages and grapes, and 12 per cent of owners feed their dog leftovers.

Over 1000 dog owners completed the online survey by Pedigree, and of that number, only 12 per cent thought their pet had a weight problem, whereas national statistics show that 40 per cent of dogs are overweight.

To highlight the report's findings, Pedigree has launched an online health checker, reduced its recommended calorie intake for dogs by 15 per cent, and launched Wet Nose Week, in order to publicise dog's four universal needs - oral health, optimum digestion, healthy skin and a robust immune system.

Jo Gale, scientist at the Waltham Centre for Pet Nutrition, said: "It is not surprising so many owners give in to their dogs and feed them tidbits from their own plates, but it is really important to remember a dog's dietary needs are very different to those of a human."

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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.