Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 16th August 2024
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

Scheme to support pet owners in social housing launched
Recent research found that only 46 per cent of private landlords allowed pets.
Dogs Trust and housing association aim to make it easier for tenants to keep pets.

A new pilot scheme has been launched in Edinburgh to help people living in social housing to keep a pet.

The scheme, a collaboration between the charity Dogs Trust and Manor Estates Housing Association, will see the housing provider review its policies and procedures and implement pet-friendly changes.

A Pet Friendly Housing Toolkit will also be developed. This will provide a set of guidelines that other social landlords can follow to support pet owners and remove barriers to pet ownership.

A lack of pet-friendly rental accommodation is a significant contributor to people having to give up their pets. In July of this year, 15 per cent of people who contacted Dogs Trust about rehoming their pet cited issues with housing as a reason.

Research carried out by Dogs Trust and Cats Protection found that only 46 per cent of private landlords allowed pets, and just 30 per cent of tenants said that their private landlord would allow a dog.

Maxine, who rents a property from Manor Estates and lives with her two dogs, said: “My dogs are such a huge part of my life. They are my companions, play a big role in my daily routine and are great company.

“I have previously tried to find private rented accommodation but have found most landlords have a blanket ‘no dogs’ policy and weren’t willing to compromise, despite my dog being well behaved. This is such a shame, especially in this day and age when so many people live alone; dogs are a great source of companionship, and really good for your mental health.”

Jennifer Leonard, from Dogs Trust’s Pet-Friendly Housing Team, added: “For most owners, being separated from their pet is no different from being separated from a family member, so we are delighted to join forces with Manor Estates and, with the support from players of People’s Postcode Lottery, pilot pet friendly policies which can be adapted and used by other landlords in the future, helping to keep more dogs and owners together.” 

Image © Dogs Trust

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

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.