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Irresponsible breeders cash in on canine craze
Rescue figures for wolf dogs on the increase

The Kennel Club (KC) has released figures demonstrating that official registrations of "wolf type" dog breeds have dropped, whereas rescue figures are on the rise. The new figures have prompted fears that unscrupulous breeders are cashing in on the latest canine craze, which is thought to have been triggered by films such as Twilight.

There was a 23 per cent drop in pedigree registrations for Alaskan Malamutes in 2012, a 15 per cent drop in Siberian Huskies and a 30 per cent drop in Akitas. At the same time, breed and general rescue homes are struggling to cope with the increasing numbers coming through their doors. It is believed these breeds may have gained popularity due to the likes of Jacob Black's half man half wolf character in the hugely popular film Twilight, and the direwolves in Game of Thrones, which are based on the Northern Inuit dog.

The KC Breed Rescue organisation Akita Rescue and Welfare Trust, saw the number of dogs coming through their doors treble to 91 in 2012, and the Friends of Akitas Trust and the Japanese Akita Trust took a further 135 dogs between them.

Stephanie Brown, from Akita Rescue & Welfare Trust said: “We simply cannot cope with the ever growing number of Akitas we are being asked to take on. Akitas are big strong dogs, should not be let off lead in public due to their prey drive and lack of recall. They are a luxury to own and are not cheap to look after."

As with Akitas, rescue homes are "inundated" with Siberian Huskies coming through their doors. The Siberian Husky Club of GB Welfare Scheme reached maximum capacity last year, while other rescue organisations took 158 huskies.

The Kennel Club has voiced concerns about the unscrupulous breeders who are willing to sell puppies to people regardless of their suitability. Sally Leich, a Kennel Club Assured Breeder of Siberian Huskies, said: “Too many breeders are selling their puppies with no questions asked, in order to cash in on the latest canine craze. The internet makes this so much easier because you can simply get a puppy delivered to your door."

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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.