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StreetVet partnership to tackle hostel rejection rate
The initiative has received the support of broadcaster and animal advocate Julia Bradbury.
Free vet treatment will support pet owners to access hostels.

A new partnership between StreetVet and MSD Animal Health is set to offer more essential veterinary care to pet owners experiencing homelessness.

Through the partnership, StreetVet hopes to provide free, year-round flea and tick protection for the pets of people living on the street or in temporary accommodation.

The initiative comes as recent findings suggest that 50 per cent of individuals have been forced to choose between their pets and sheltered accommodation. Just ten per cent of hostels are currently accepting people with pets.

In 2022, government figures estimated that 3,069 people are sleeping rough in a single night – 26 per cent increase from 2021.

StreetVet says that flea and tick infestation is the most common barrier to accessing hostels, preventing untreated dogs from entering the premises.

The issue is particularly common in Cornwall and Devon. More than 3,800 people are recorded as ‘homeless’ and are unable to find accommodation which will allow them to keep their pets.

Due to the rising numbers of individuals experiencing homelessness, and with hostel rejection rates set to intensify, the partnership will be launching the initiative in Cornwall. Donated flea and tick medication will be administered to clients’ pets, providing protection for the next year and removing barriers to hostel entry.

Collette Sheaff, head of marketing and fundraising, said: “At StreetVet, we're all about care, compassion, and finding sustainable solutions to problems,"

"During the colder winter months, when freezing temperatures and harsh weather make accessing pet-friendly hostel accommodation for those experiencing homelessness with their pets more critical than ever, this initiative is a lifeline.”

The initiative has also gained the support from broadcaster and animal advocate Julia Bradbury.

Ms Bradbury said: “Every pet deserves care, and every person should have the chance to stay with their beloved companion without fear of rejection from shelters.  Dogs offer huge comfort, support and can ease our more challenging emotions.

“This initiative is making a real difference by ensuring pets and their owners can stay together and find safe, warm spaces during challenging times.”

Image © StreetVet

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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.