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Staffie breaks good citizen record
Rescue dog is first to receive award in two countries

A nine-year-old rescue dog from Brighton has become the first dog to be awarded Good Citizen status in two countries.

The Staffordshire bull terrier cross, Maxx, was adopted by current owner Tracey Davidson in New York. Approximately nine kilograms underweight, two-year-old Maxx was despondent, nervous and suffering from several illnesses.

In order to build his confidence, Tracey took him to Canine Good Citizen training classes in Brooklyn, and he passed the test in 2008.

Following this, the pair moved to the UK in 2011, and began training with the Kennel Club (KC) Good Citizen Dog Training Scheme in September 2012.

Since then Maxx has already achieved both Bronze and Silver awards, making him the first dog to ever achieve the good citizen awards in two countries.

Tracey says: "My motivation for training Maxx was to show the public in both the US and UK that Staffies make perfect companions when given proper training by responsible owners."

Tracey's determination has been applauded by instructors at the obedience club. KC accredited instructor, Di Morgan, said: "Tracey is a great handler who has a wonderful rapport with Maxx. We’re delighted that Maxx has achieved this one-of-a-kind accolade. He is a lovely dog."

Image: Tracey and Maxx, Kennel Club

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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.