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Fifth of owners worry dog has gained Christmas weight
The survey revealed that a fifth of owners would like to know how to check their dog is overweight.

Survey reveals 2.7m dogs have piled on the pounds over the festive season.

New research by Guide Dogs has revealed that a fifth of British dog owners - equivalent to 2.7 million dogs - fear their dog will have gained weight over the festive season.

In a survey of 2,000 dog owners, one third admitted to giving their pups additional treats, and more than a quarter said their dog eats more than usual over Christmas period. 

One in six owners said their dog doesn't eat their normal food during the festivities, with turkey, chicken and sausages among the items most given to pampered pooches.

When it comes to exercise, a quarter of owners said they take their dogs for fewer walks during the Christmas period. Cold weather and wanting to stay indoors because of shorter daylight hours were cited as the top reasons why owners didn't walk their dogs as much.

The research also revealed that more than a fifth of owners (24%) would like to know how to check if their dog is overweight. According to the Royal Veterinary College, one in 14 pet dogs in the UK are recorded as overweight by their vets. 

In light of its findings, Guide Dogs has compiled some advice on fun activities dog owners can do with their pups to help them lose the excess weight.

Guide Dogs chief veterinary officer Tim Davies said: “Christmas is often a time of over-indulgence – and whilst it’s inevitable dogs might enjoy an extra treat or two over the festive season, it’s important they are kept active and maintain a healthy diet, to avoid putting on weight. 

“Almost a third (29%) of those surveyed would like to know how to keep their dog’s fitness and health the best it can be. Our tips will help dog owners across the country feel inspired to get out and about with their dog and even include some fun fitness ideas to do from the comfort of your own home."

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Webinar to explore AMR in vet dentistry

News Story 1
 The WSAVA has invited veterinary professionals to a webinar on responsible antibiotic usage in dentistry.

On 19 November 2025, at 1am, Dr J Scott Weese and Dr Brooke Niemiec will share the latest advice for antimicrobial use. They will present research on oral bacterology, and explain how attendees can choose appropriate antibiotics.

The session will cover pre-, intra- and post-operative guidelines, with recommendations for various pathologies.

The webinar is designed to support veterinary professionals to make informed decisions and tackle antimicrobial resistance.

Attendees can register here

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Bluetongue reaches Wales for first time in 2025

The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) has revealed that bluetongue has been confirmed in Wales for the first time in 2025.

In their latest statistics, APHA records a total of 109 cases of BTV-3 or BTV-8 in Great Britain in the 2025-2026 vector season.

The total number of BTV-3 cases in Great Britain this season is 107. This includes 103 cases within the England restricted zone and four cases in Wales.

There has also been two cases of BTV-8, which were both in Cornwall.

As a result of the cases in Wales, a Temporary Control Zone (TCZ) is enforced in Monmouthshire. Animals can move freely under general license within the England Restricted Zone, however animals with suspected bluetongue must stay on their holding.

All premises testing positive for blue tongue can be viewed on this map.