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Government announces support for Ukrainian refugees with pets
Ukrainian nationals will be able to bring their pets to the UK with any quarantine costs met by the government.
Costs of vaccination, microchipping and quarantine will be covered.

Ukrainians seeking refuge in the UK with their pets will have their vaccination, microchipping and quarantine costs covered by the government, it has been confirmed.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) announced today (15 March) that it has introduced new emergency support for those fleeing Ukraine with their pets.

A statement reads: 'Using an emergency licence, Ukrainian nationals can bring their pets to the UK with any quarantine costs met by the government. 

'The government will also be covering their vaccination, microchipping and quarantine costs, recognising that many Ukrainian individuals will not have been able to complete the full health preparations required for their pet on arrival. '

A pet that has not been vaccinated against rabies may be quarantined for up to four months. Defra said that it will consider pets 'on a case by case basis, with a shortened quarantine period for those that are vaccinated.' 

'We are working with vets and quarantine facilities to make sure that the arrival of Ukrainians in the UK is not delayed by the process to make arrangements for their pets,' the statement continued.

Ukrainian nationals are encouraged to contact the Animal and Plant Health Agency at pettravel@apha.gov.uk or call +44 3000 200 301 option 2 before their arrival. They will then be able to confirm their approval for their emergency licence and arrange any quarantine stays required to complete the rabies risk management process. 

Owing to the limited number of quarantine facilities in the UK, those fleeing Ukraine with their pets will be prioritised over animals brought over on a commercial basis, which includes rescue imports.

Animal welfare minister Lord Goldsmith said: “Ukrainian nationals are in an appalling situation. I’m pleased that Ukrainian refugees will be able to bring their pets to the UK with any quarantine costs paid for by the Government.

“As part of our new streamlined process, any animals which have already received some treatment may also have their stay in quarantine reduced and be returned back to their owner as soon as possible.”

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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.