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Osteoarthritis review identifies links between dogs and humans
Humans and dogs share the most common areas for the development of OA.
‘One Health’ study could lead to new understanding and treatments

Key similarities between osteoarthritis (OA) in humans and dogs have been identified by researchers for the first time.

Scientists say their findings, published in Nature Reviews Rheumatology, may be in part due to the shared lifestyles of humans and dogs. However, their similar disease physiology and anatomies could also play a role.

The study was led by researchers at the RVC who conducted a comprehensive review of the existing literature related to OA. The team amalgamated more than 230 peer-reviewed studies into one single paper, ‘The spontaneous dog osteoarthritis - a one medicine vision.

Researchers found that humans and dogs share the most common areas for the development of OA - the hip, knee, shoulder and elbows. They also identified similarities in the pain experienced by dogs and humans, suggesting that our nervous systems function in the same way.

The team hopes that by combining this knowledge into one paper, it could lead to future collaborative studies by animal and human health experts. This ‘One medicine’ approach could then lead to new treatments to improve the welfare of both animals and humans.

Dr Richard Meeson from the RVC, who led the research said: “Pet dogs live with us and develop many of the same diseases as humans, such as arthritis.

“There is a growing belief, therefore, that a ‘one medicine’ approach to many of these diseases has the potential to unlock new understanding and treatments for both animals and humans. The potential for this approach has been clearly demonstrated in our review.”

 

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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
New guidance for antibiotic use in rabbits

New best practice guidance on the responsible use of antibiotics in rabbits has been published by the BSAVA in collaboration with the Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund (RWA&F).

The guidance is free and has been produced to help veterinary practitioners select the most appropriate antibiotic for rabbits. It covers active substance, dose and route of administration all of which are crucial factors when treating rabbits owing to the risk of enterotoxaemia.

For more information and to access the guide, visit the BSAVALibrary.