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Horse owners asked to take part in Blue Cross fireworks survey
Blue Cross is concerned about a rise in private firework displays as a result of COVID-19 restrictions.

Charity seeks to better understanding of equine community's concerns

Charity Blue Cross is appealing for horse owners across the UK to respond to a survey about the impact of fireworks.

There were many reports of horses becoming scared or injured as a result of fireworks displays this year. As COVID-19 restrictions led to an increase in people hosting private displays in their gardens.

Blue Cross is concerned about this rise in personal firework displays – particularly in the lead up to new years eve – as well as the negative impact this can have on pets and horses.

The national pet charity, which has equine centres in Oxfordshire and Staffordshire, is calling on horse and pony owners to take part in a national survey. The results of which will be used to gain a greater understanding of any concerns from the equine community.

Blue Cross is looking to receive as many responses as possible from horse owners by 10 December.

The survey is available to fill out online.

Blue Cross education manager Kerry Taylor said: “In these changing times it is important to understand the existing concerns horse owners have around fireworks season and the impact these celebrations can have on their animals.

“Horses have a natural and innate flight response and we know some fare badly when local fireworks are set off and we are hoping to understand the national picture in greater detail.”

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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.