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PDSA invites views of vets and nurses
Charity calls for opinions on pet welfare for report

The PDSA is inviting all those working in the veterinary profession to share their thoughts on the issues facing UK pets, and their views on how to make improvements.

The survey forms part of the PDSA Animal Well-being (PAW) report, and is aimed at helping the charity monitor changes in owner behaviour, and gather opinions from the profession in order to inform future planning.

Issues covered in the survey include online pet sales, pet obesity and children and pets. Last year, 500 vets and vet nurses shared their views, and this year the charity has opened up the survey to the veterinary profession as a whole.

"The views of the profession are vital in building a full picture of the state of our pet nation," said Nicola Martin, head of pet health and welfare at PDSA.

"The more responses we get, the better idea we will have of the issues that really concern you the most. Tell us what you think, and how you want to improve pet wellbeing."

This year's survey can be found on the charity's website, and on average takes 15 minutes to complete. Click here to complete the survey.

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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.