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Military dog receives posthumous medal
Search dog's life-saving work is recognised

A military working dog that died in Afghanistan has been awarded a medal by the Peoples Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA).

Theo was an arms and explosives search dog for the Army. The brave springer spaniel holds the record for the most operational finds in Afghanistan of any dog - in total, he found 14 hidden weapons and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) during his service.

In 2011, Theo's handler Lance Corporal Liam Tasker, was killed by enemy fire and Theo died just hours later from an undiagnosed seizure.

The PDSA's Dickin Medal is the highest award an animal can receive in recognition of gallantry and devotion to duty while serving in military conflict.

Sergent Matthew Jones, who served alongside LCpl Tasker and Theo, accepted the posthumous award on Theo's behalf with search dog Grace. The ceremony was held at London's Wellington Barracks, amongst LCpl Tasker's family and colleagues.

Theo's medal recognises that in finding so many weapons, he prevented a number of soldiers and civilians from being killed or wounded.

LCpl Tasker's mother, Jane Duffy, said: "It's like they were a team. One couldn't have worked without the other out there, doing the job they were doing."

Sgt Jones added: "Liam will be massively honoured. He strived to be the best and this is the ultimate testament to him and Theo.

"If he's looking down on us then he'll be smiling."

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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.