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Guinea pig welfare improving, vets say
"We're really proud of the positive difference that GPAW is making just two years after launching the campaign" - Dr Moyes.
Survey suggests positive impact of GPAW initiative.

A survey conducted by the organisers of Guinea Pig Awareness Week (GPAW) has revealed that 82 per cent of veterinary professionals believe that guinea pig welfare in the UK is improving.

GPAW, which took place for the second year running from 26 – 30 September 2022 is a campaign that highlights the welfare needs of guinea pigs, and veterinary professionals and owners alike are encouraged to get involved.

In 2022, the theme was 'Home Squeak Home', focusing on the importance of providing a safe and enriching environment. 

Of the veterinary professionals surveyed, 93 per cent stated that GPAW has had a positive impact on guinea pig care in the UK.

Dr Suzanne Moyes, a veterinary surgeon involved with the organisation of GPAW, said: “Responsible pet ownership is really important to Burgess Pet Care and it is so encouraging that 93% of veterinary professionals believe that GPAW has had a positive impact on guinea pig care. 

“It was also fantastic to learn that 100% of owners we surveyed believe that the campaign will have a positive impact on guinea pig welfare.”

The 2022 event saw initiatives to help owners create suitable indoor and outdoor housing, including how to adapt guinea pig housing for the changing seasons. Delivered via educational videos, live streams and Q and A sessions, GPAW 2022 was welcomed by the professions, with 38 per cent of veterinary professionals stating that housing was the most neglected welfare need among the species.

“There’s always more we can do to enable guinea pig owners to understand – and meet - the very specific welfare needs of these gorgeous, intelligent creatures, but we’re really proud of the positive difference that GPAW is making just two years after launching the campaign.”

Set to return in 2023, GPAW is supported by the RSPCA, Blue Cross and Woodgreen Pets Charity. Veterinary practices are encouraged to visit the GPAW website, where they can sign up to receive notifications about GPAW's next campaign. 

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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.