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Virtual pet show to help homeless people and their animals
Vets in the Community has launched an online pet show to raise vital funds.
Vets in the Community launch fundraiser for vulnerable people in Nottingham. 

Student-led charity Vets in the Community is holding a virtual pet show to raise much-needed funds for homeless people and their pets during the lockdown.

The charity was established in 2012 by the University of Nottingham's School of Veterinary Medicine and Science. It runs fortnightly clinics in Nottingham city centre, and pets of eligible people can receive free routine treatment such as vaccinations, microchipping and health checks.

Vets in the Community runs entirely on donations, but due to social distancing restrictions, the team is currently unable to hold clinics. Clients are still reliant on the team for pet food and medication, however, and the charity fears the associated economic impact of COVID-19 could lead to a rise in demand for its services.

To help raise funds, Vets in the Community has set up a competition on its Facebook page, inviting owners to send a direct message with pictures and videos of their pets. Owners can submit their entry to one of five categories, including 'grumpiest pet' and 'best smile', and then make a small donation to the charity's Just Giving page.

So far the competition has raised £1,500 - smashing its initial two targets - and has now increased its goal to £1,700. The winner for each category will be selected by a panel of judges that include television vet Julian Norton, and will receive a rosette and certificate in the post.

Vet and Nottingham alumna, Louisa Graham, will be on the judging panel. She said: “I was over the moon to be asked to work with Vets in the Community. Pets are our family and they help us get through the unimaginable, so we can only imagine the support and comfort they provide owners who are homeless.

“Vets in the Community are raising money to keep those pets owned by vulnerable people safe and healthy, and I’m so pleased to be involved. So let’s help raise funds for pets in the community with their virtual pet show. I know I’m keen to enter!”

Julian Norton added: “I’m really delighted to be able to support Vets in the Community. Pets are integral to our lives and can be especially important for people in vulnerable positions. Taking care of their animals can be even more challenging and the work of groups like Vets in the Community is invaluable. Please do what you can to help by supporting this fun, virtual pet show!”

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

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.