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Pet Loss Support marks 30 years of its helpline
Michelle Weller struggled after her dog passed away suddenly in 2022.
However Blue Cross says nearly half of pet owners suffer in silence.

Blue Cross is marking 30 years of its Pet Loss Support (PLS) service, which supports grieving pet owners 365 days a year.

However, despite its service supporting 20,000 people last year, the charity says that nearly half of UK pet owners are suffering in silence following the loss of a pet.

Blue Cross’ survey of 2,000 pet owners revealed that just 52 per cent of pet owners felt comfortable reaching out for support. It also found that only 50 per cent would discuss their loss with family and friends.

The charity launched its Pet Loss Support service in 1994, to provide compassion support for grieving pet owners.

Since then, the free and confidential service has developed to include a helpline, email service and a webchat to help pet owners throughout the year.

The service is run by volunteers, all of which have experienced pet loss and have completed a training course. The volunteers speak with those grieving the loss of a pet, as well as providing practical information for friends and family who are in contact with them.

Blue Cross says that its survey revealed just 23 per cent of pet owners know that there is this kind of support available if their pet passes away.

One such pet owner is Michelle Weller, who was struggling after her springer spaniel Bailey passed away suddenly in 2022. When she went to her veterinary practice to collect his ashes, it gave her the details of the Pet Loss Support Service.

Ms Weller said: “It was as if someone had given me a massive hug. She took me out of that dark place I was in, and just listened. It was a hug in a phone call.”

Diane James, head of Pet Loss Support, said: “We’re a nation of pet lovers but we often struggle to talk about our emotions when it involves the loss of a beloved pet - even with family and friends. It can be a distressing, confusing and lonely time.
 
“No-one should have to endure the pain of losing a pet alone and PLS is here to hold people’s hand when they need it most through all types of pet loss.”

For more information on Pet Loss Support, visit its website.

Image © Blue Cross

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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.