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Duo to embark on 50km hike for Vetlife
“This 50km challenge is a way for me to contribute further and support the incredible work Vetlife does" – Kay Watson-Bray.
The pair aim to raise £2,500 with their trek across Dartmoor.

Two women from the veterinary community are set to tackle a 50km hike to raise money for Vetlife.

Kay Watson-Bray, CEO of the British Veterinary Receptionist Association, and Michelle Gratton, donor relations manager at Vetlife, will be crossing the open moorland and river valleys of Dartmoor as they aim to raise £2,500 for the charity.

The landscape will present a number of challenges, from steep granite tors to soggy peat bogs, and the duo will also have to contend with Dartmoor’s unpredictable weather.

Explaining her motivation, Ms Watson-Bray said: “After participating in Active October last year for Vetlife, I felt inspired to do more. This 50km challenge is a way for me to contribute further and support the incredible work Vetlife does. I also want to raise awareness that Vetlife is there to support all the veterinary team.”

Vetlife provides mental health and financial support to the veterinary community. The Vetlife Helpline offers confidential support by phone or email 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The service can be called on 0303 040 2551 and emailed anonymously via the Vetlife website.

Ms Gratton said: “The Vetlife Helpline is busier than ever, handling an average of 11 contacts per day from people seeking support.

“I’m taking on this challenge to help ensure that Vetlife can continue providing vital assistance through its three key services: Helpline, Health Support, and Financial Support."

Donations can be made on the pair’s JustGiving page.

Image © Vetlife

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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.