Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 11th April 2013
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel
Rise in break-up dogs and cats
Image: Buster from Battersea Dogs and Cats Home
Charity seeks fosterers to ease demand

Battersea Dogs and Cats Home saw a 31 per cent increase in abandoned pets due to family break-ups last year.

The dramatic increase has led the charity to appeal for more foster homes for those dogs and cats that find kennel life particularly stressful, after coming from a family home environment.

Owners who divorce and separate can often be left with no choice but to rehome their pet, particularly if they have to move into rented accommodation that does not allow animals or their work commitments mean the pet will be left alone too long.

However, with 31 per cent more pets looking for homes, the charity is calling on the support of fosterers.

While Battersea takes in around 9,000 dogs and cats each year, many of its residents are temporarily rehomed. They will then stay at that home until a permanent owner comes along.

"It's sad when dogs and cats find themselves here through no fault of their own," said Carly Whyborn, volunteer and foster manager at Battersea.

"It's a massive change for them to come to this environment, and although our staff and volunteers do as much as they can to make the animals stay as comfortable as possible, sometimes it can be too overwhelming for them."

Ms Whyborn added that foster homes can provide a sanctuary to their animals, but the charity needs more of them.

Battersea asks for fosterers who ideally have some experience of caring for an animal, do not have very young children or other pets at home, and live within a two-hour drive of one of its centres in London, Kent or Berkshire.

The fosterers also need to be home most of the day to give the dog or cat the care it needs.

Click here to find out more about fostering for Battersea, or email the charity.

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Vets launch new podcast for pet owners

News Story 1
 Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.

The venture, called Vets Talking Pets, provides advice and information on a range of topics, including how to select a suitable pet, where to obtain them and how to get the best out of your vet. Maggie and Vanessa will also discuss sensitive subjects, including end-of-life care, raw food diets and the cost of veterinary care.

The podcast can be found on all the usual podcast sites, including Podbean, Apple, Amazon Music and YouTube. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
BSAVA announces 12th Edition of the Small Animal Formulary

The BSAVA has published an updated edition of its Small Animal Formulary, which includes new drug monographs and emergency drug doses for rabbits, rodents, birds and reptiles.

One of BSAVA's most trusted and widely used clinical resources, this 12th edition of the manual also includes seven new client information leaflets and information on drugs used for the management of urinary incontinence.

Part A of the Formulary, Canine and Feline, sees Fergus Allerton return as Editor-in-Chief, while Part B: Exotic Pets was edited by Joanna Hedley. For more information, visit the BSAVA website.