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New-look resource for puppy buyers
The Puppy Contract provides advice on whether a puppy is a right choice for the individual or family.
The Puppy Contact explains the dos and don’ts of buying a puppy

As stronger animal welfare legislation comes into force, the BVA and the Animal Welfare Foundation have launched a new-look resource to encourage prospective puppy owners to buy from responsible dealers.

The Puppy Contract provides a step-by-step guide to the dos and don’ts of buying a puppy and is designed to help anyone buying or breeding puppies to do so responsibly. Supported by leading animal welfare charities, it consists of an information section about the puppy and its parents (to be filled in by the breeder) and a legally binding contract for sale between the buyer and the breeder.

The Puppy Contract also offers advice on whether a puppy is a right choice for the individual or family, the costs of owning one, where to get a puppy and the right questions to asks. Other sections include tips on how to spot a puppy dealer and an overview of puppy breeding laws in the UK.

Animal Welfare Foundation chairperson Chris Lawrence said: “Bringing a puppy into your life is a huge commitment and choosing where to buy your puppy from is a decision that will stay with you for the dog’s lifetime.

"The Puppy Contract is a unique resource, designed to help guide you through the process of finding a puppy which has been bred with the best chance of living a healthy and happy life. We urge anyone looking for a new dog to take their time and do plenty of research and always use The Puppy Contract.”

British Veterinary Association president and AWF Trustee Simon Doherty added: “Animal welfare is always the top priority for vets, and we believe that starts right at the beginning of a pet’s life.

“We’d encourage anyone thinking of getting a new puppy to speak to their local veterinary practice for advice on the right dog for them and use The Puppy Contract to ensure they are buying a healthy, happy and well-socialised puppy. If a seller is not willing to provide the information listed in The Puppy Contract, then you should walk away and report concerns to local authorities otherwise you risk perpetuating irresponsible dog breeding.”

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Strangles survey seeks views of horse owners

News Story 1
 With Strangles Awareness Week just around the corner (5-11 May), vets are being encouraged to share a survey about the disease with their horse-owning clients.

The survey, which has been designed by Dechra, aims to raise awareness of Strangles and promote best practices to prevent its transmission. It includes questions about horse owners' experiences of strangles, together with preventative measures and vaccination.

Respondents to the survey will be entered into a prize draw to win two VIP tickets to Your Horse Live 2025. To access the survey, click here 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Vivienne Mackinnon elected BVA Scottish Branch President

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has elected Vivienne Mackinnon as its new BVA Scottish Branch president.

Dr Mackinnon has over 30 years of experience in veterinary care, encompassing both small animal and mixed practice. She has worked in practices in Scotland, England, New Zealand and Australia, before joining APHA to work in frontline disease control.

In her speech, Dr Mackinnon reflected on the changes in Scotland's veterinary industry and highlighted her commitment to veterinary education.

Dr Mackinnon said: "I look forward to working with colleagues across the veterinary professions to improve animal health and welfare in the country and support veterinary workplaces."