Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 22nd November 2024
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

3,700 pets injured in road accidents each year
It is recommended that dogs and their owners wear high-visibility clothes.
PDSA issues advice during Road Safety Week.

PDSA is raising awareness of the dangers traffic poses to pets as Road Safety Week (17 November- 23 November) continues.

The charity reports that it treats around 3,700 pets each year that have been involved in road traffic accidents, which costs it over £1 million a year.

Although the charity advocates regular winter walks to keep pets exercised, it has warned of the dangers that dark and busy roads pose to pets and their owners. Pets which are seriously injured in traffic accidents frequently require specialist or intensive veterinary care.

PDSA veterinary nurse Gemma Renwick has shared advice for pet owners to keep safe when walking near roadsides.

If you are unable to walk your dog during daylight hours, she recommends that owners wear high-visibility clothing and equip their dog with an LED collar or high-visibility dog coat. As always, dogs should be microchipped and have a collar with accurate identification details.

Cats should also be wearing high-visibility collars, which must always be ‘quick release’. Ideally cats should only be let out in daylight hours, which can be encouraged by timing their mealtimes to take place just before it gets dark. This creates a schedule, so they always return before nightfall.

Dog walks should avoid busy roads where possible, but it is also possible to train them to be cautious near roads. When you reach a road, ask your pet to ‘sit’ and ‘wait’ before crossing a road. This should teach them to always wait when they reach a road.

During winter, keeping dogs on a short and strong lead instead of an extender lead gives the extra assurance that they will not run off – even if they are generally well-behaved.

Ms Renwick said: “Sticking to these tips will help keep your beloved pets safe from the dangers of roads and traffic – as well as avoiding any unexpected veterinary costs. Remember, a little preparation and training can go a long way in ensuring that your walks are safe and enjoyable for both you and your furry friend.”

Image © Shutterstock

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

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.