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PDSA releases results of Big Weigh In 2024
1,262 pets were weighed as part of the campaign.
Almost half of all pets were overweight or obese.

The People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) has released the findings of its Big Weigh In, revealing a concerning trend for both dogs and cats.

The statistics highlighted that 45 per cent of all pets weighed during February and March had a body condition score (BCS) of six and over, meaning they were overweight or obese.

This was in line with predictions made by veterinary professionals, which estimated that around half of all dogs and cats were overweight or obese. Veterinary professionals believe that 43 per cent of cats and 46 per cent of dogs are overweight or obese.

Throughout an eight-week period, the PDSA Big Weigh In saw more than 500 veterinary practices across the United Kingdom invite pet owners for a free weight check appointment for their pet.

In total, 1,262 pets were weighed during the campaign, reaching a cumulative weight of 17,802kg – which is equivalent to three large elephants. Of the pets involved in the campaign, 76 per cent were dogs and 24 per cent were cats.

The findings reflect trends published in the PDSA Animal Wellbeing Report, which revealed that 49 per cent of veterinary professionals had seen an increase in pet obesity in the past two years. A quarter of veterinary professionals considered obesity one of the top five welfare issues among dogs.

The PDSA also says that 82 per cent of pet owners are unaware of their pet’s body condition score, which calculates whether they are underweight, an ideal weight, or overweight.

However, the PDSA remains optimistic about the campaign’s effect on pet obesity.

Gemma Renwick, a PDSA veterinary nurse, said: “This is a step forward in the bid to tackle the pet obesity crisis,

“The campaign has reached more than 60 million people so we know the message is getting out to pet owners. It’s brilliant to see so many pet owners get involved in the campaign and start the journey of helping their pet with their weight.”

Image © Shutterstock

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Prof Joanne Webster elected as Fellow of the Royal Society

News Story 1
 Joanne Webster, a professor of parasitic diseases at the RVC, has been elected as a Fellow of the Royal Society (FRS).

An infectious disease expert, Prof Webster is known for promoting a One Health approach to disease control.

She completed her doctoral research in zoonotic disease and parasite-host interactions, and has since earned widespread recognition for contributions to parasitology and global health.

Prof Webster said: "I am truly honoured, and somewhat stunned, to be recognised alongside such an exceptional group of scientists." 

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News Shorts
Germany FMD import restrictions eased

The UK government has lifted the import restrictions placed on FMD-susceptible commodities from Germany.

The decision comes after the country was recognised as foot-and-mouth disease free without vaccination on 14 May.

Imports of FMD-susceptible animals and their by-products from Germany were originally banned, after the country reported a case of FMD near Brandenburg in January. In March, the UK government permitted imports from outside of the outbreak zone.

Germany will now be able to import FMD-susceptible animals and their by-products into the UK, providing they meet other import conditions.

The decision follows rigorous technical assessment of measures in Germany. Defra says it will not hesitate respond to FMD outbreaks.