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Britain's most playful pets revealed
Bubb and CHing
Bubb and Ching from Cornwall have been dubbed the nation's most playful pets.
Winners prove playtime is key for happy, healthy animals
 
Two Hungarian vizsla dogs from Cornwall have been named Britain's most playful pets by the National Office of Animal Health.

The winners were picked from over 430 entries by a panel of judges which included the Mayhew Animal Home and Dr Samantha Gaines, Head of Companion Animals Department (CAD), RSPCA.

It was Bubb and Ching's love of walking and searching for their favourite toys that won the hearts of the judges, helping to prove that playtime is essential for happy, healthy pets.

Bubb and Ching’s proud owner Rose comments: “Bubb and Ching absolutely love to be out in the fresh Cornish air. If we’re not going for a long walk, we’ll be swimming in the sea or playing hide-and-seek with their favourite toys.

"I feel that it’s really important that Bubb and Ching are stimulated both in mind and body, so when it’s a lousy day weather-wise we’ll hide their favourite toys in the house for them to find. They really love this game and because they are having to use their brains, it really challenges them and tires them out.

"They are incredibly active and their energy is a great positive influence. I am thrilled that we can help to educate others about the importance of play for pets’ wellbeing.”

Head of CAD, RSPCA, Dr Samantha Gaines adds: "We chose Bubb and Ching because they look like they are having a great time together in their photo. Their owners are providing regular exercise and activities which allows them to perform natural behaviours and this is an important part of making sure dogs live an enjoyable and healthy life."

The competition ran as part of NOAH’s Happy, Healthy Pets Project – an online gallery aiming to build the UK’s largest ever picture of pet health.

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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.