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Superhero pets recognised for life-saving blood donations
Harriet the cat had made 12 donations since joining the Blood Donor Programme in 2021.

Anna and Harriet are enrolled on the RVC Blood Donor Programme.

A six-year-old greyhound and an eight-year-old domestic shorthair cat have been recognised for their life-saving blood donations.

The animals, Anna the greyhound and Harriet the cat, have helped to save and treat hundreds of pets through blood donations used at the RVC Queen Mother Hospital for Animals.

In recognition of this incredible feat, the duo have been officially named Canine and Feline Blood Donors of the Year by the RVC Animal Care Trust, the charitable arm of the Royal Veterinary College.

Anna the greyhound has made 10 blood donations since joining the RVC’s Blood Donor Programme in 2022. Described by her owners, Peter and Denise Dillon, as having a “relaxed personality at home”, she is always eager to attend her appointments.

Commenting on her award, Peter and Denise said: “To say that we were surprised and delighted to hear of the award for Anna would be the understatement of the year.

“When we arrive for a session and we think it would be a good idea for a walk on the grass, she doesn’t agree and pulls us straight into reception. On arrival in the centre, she has a quick tour of the room, then jumps onto the table, lies down and looks up as if to say ‘what are we waiting for’.

“The team always generate a relaxed and calming atmosphere and are obviously very happy in what they do.”

Harriet the cat had made 12 donations since joining the Blood Donor Programme in 2021. She was initially introduced to the initiative by Simon Cook, a senior lecturer in Emergency and Critical Care at the RVC, who recognised the ongoing need for more pet blood donors.

According to Harriet’s owners, Harriet takes donating in stride and also enjoys relaxing in the peaceful environment of the purpose-built centre.

Harriet’s owners, Nick and Anne Cook, said: “We’re all very honoured that Harriet is being rewarded in this way. As animal lovers, it is great to know she has been able to help really sick cats that are in difficulty.

“The Blood Donor Team are marvellous. So dedicated and always really friendly and communicative. If you are an animal lover, please consider enrolling your cats or dogs to the RVC Blood Donor Programme. They will be helping other beloved family pets.”

Image (C) RVC.

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Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
New form for online veterinary medicines retailers

The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) has produced a new online form for retailers wishing to sell veterinary medicines on the internet.

The form replace the previous Word version and is part of the VMD's ongoing commitment to digitise its processes. Anyone retailing prescription medicines online, including POM-V, POM-VPS and NFA-VPS categories, is lawfully required to register with the VMD before trading.

The change only applies to new applicants. Retailers already listed on the VMD's Register of Online Retailers or registered under the Accredited Internet Retailer Scheme (AIRS) do not need to do anything.