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BVNA launches online pet behaviour hub
The hub's first monthly topic is how veterinary nurses can pursue an interest in animal behaviour.
The resources will support members to learn more about animal behaviour.

A new online hub on animal behaviour has been launched for members of the British Veterinary Nursing Association (BVNA).

The forum, available through the BVNA member portal, provides a space for veterinary nurses to share resources and discuss topics around pet behaviour.

There will be monthly topics on the forum as well as general discussions. The topic for the first month is how veterinary nurses can pursue an interest in animal behaviour. The hub will also signpost further training and CPD resources.

The project is designed to complement BVNA’s ongoing collaboration with the Animal Behaviour and Training Council. Since 2022, the two organisations have offered a Learning Pathway in Behaviour CPD course to provide foundational knowledge of pet behaviour.

Nikki McLeod, BVNA honorary treasurer and Behaviour Hub project lead, said: "Knowledge of animal behaviour is essential to our role as veterinary nurses, plus the wider veterinary team too. Having this understanding has an enormous positive impact on the emotional wellbeing of our patients while in our care.

“However, we also know that it can be tricky to find accessible, reliable sources of information and advice surrounding pet behaviour. BVNA is therefore delighted to launch the Behaviour Hub as a brand-new resource and membership benefit to BVNA members.

“This will provide the opportunity to discuss anything related to behaviour, in a constructive and supportive forum - and importantly, tailored to meet the needs of veterinary nurses. We invite members to be part of the conversation.”

Image © Shutterstock

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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.