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Chicken research grants available for vet nurses and students
“Chickens are now a popular pet choice in the UK, which means it’s increasingly likely that one will be brought into your practice for diagnosis and treatment" - Steve Smith.
The funding aims to increase the welfare and longevity of pet hens. 

The British Hen Welfare Trust (BHWT) is encouraging veterinary students and nurses to apply for grants worth up to £3,000 for research into the welfare and behaviour of chickens.

Six grants have been made available by charity, of which one is co-funded by BSAVA PetSavers, the charitable arm of the BSAVA. 

Organisers hope the grants will build evidence and enhance veterinary knowledge to increase the quality of welfare and longevity of pet hens.

Steve Smith, EBVS European Veterinary Specialist in Avian Medicine and Surgery, called on vet students and nurses to apply for the grants and improve hen health among the profession.

“Chickens are now a popular pet choice in the UK, which means it’s increasingly likely that one will be brought into your practice for diagnosis and treatment,” he said. 

“We all know that the veterinary curriculum doesn’t cover these birds extensively, so anything that can enhance knowledge among our colleagues can only be a positive thing. And if you’re planning to specialise in avian medicine, taking on a funded research project like this could be a great experience.”

BHWT founder Jane Howorth MBE added: “Hen keepers often find there is a lack of treatment options specifically for chickens, and with more people discovering the joy of pet hens, this is an issue that’s not likely to disappear soon. 

“As a charity, we’re dedicated to improving pet hen health in numerous ways and these grants will go a long way to providing more support for the nation’s hen keepers and plugging the research and knowledge gap around these beautiful birds.” 

Applications for the grants will remain open until 15 July 2022. The BHWT Grant Committee will consider all applications before submitting a shortlist to a Scientific Research Committee.

For more information and to apply, visit bhwt.org.uk

 

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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.