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Staffies are most abandoned dog breed, RSPCA reveals
Nova is one of many Staffies reported abandoned in 2023.
1,316 Staffies have been abandoned in 2023 so far.

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) has revealed that Staffordshire bull terriers (Staffies) are set to be the most abandoned dog breed in 2023, with 1,316 reports so far.

This is followed by the French bulldog, which has had 582 reports, and the German shepherd, with 542 reports.

The statistics have been released as the RSPCA experiences a three-year high of animal dumping reports in 2023.

The animal rescue charity has already seen 16,040 abandoned dogs reported this year, an increase on the 15,666 reports in 2022. Some of the individual calls received by their emergency line referred to multiple abandoned dogs.

Among the dogs rescued by the RSPCA is Nova, a three-year-old Staffie crossbreed who was abandoned by her owners. Following her ordeal, Nova was stressed and nervous around strangers and new surroundings.

She is now looking for a permanent home, and her carers are confident she will settle in quickly.

However, the RSPCA fears that increased abandonment rates could mean that more dogs will have a difficult winter, putting further pressure on their volunteers.

They are appealing for donations to their Join Our Christmas Rescue campaign, which aims to ensure that their rescue teams are able to continue rescuing and rehoming abandoned animals.

Dermot Murphy, RSPCA inspectorate commissioner, said: “These figures show that, despite being man’s best friend, we are seeing far too many dogs being sadly abandoned by their owners - and we fear the winter could be bleak for countless dogs.

“The cost of living is one of the biggest barriers to animal welfare and is making it harder for some owners. Many pet owners are struggling, even more than last year, which is likely impacting these shocking figures.

“Regardless of their breed, all dogs are loving and loyal to their owners so it’s heartbreaking that people decide to abandon them, instead of asking for help.”

Those interested in making a donation can set up a one-off or monthly donation here.

Image © RSPCA

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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.