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Volunteer VNs Needed for Homeless Animal Care
Veterinary Nurses are being called upon to help the animals of the homeless.

Crisis, a charity devoted to caring for the nation's single homeless, is calling for Veterinary Nurses and other staff in the veterinary sector to help with client's dogs over the Christmas period.

The 'Crisis at Christmas' drive is running nine temporary centres in London from December 23 to December 30 in which the capital's homeless can get a hot meal, health checks and housing advice. A call for veterinary volunteers has been put out, as Crisis also offers kennelling and veterinary check-ups for their client's dogs.

The charity is asking for volunteers with professional experience of dog care and handling. A Crisis spokesman said “We would welcome anyone with these skills, especially VNs.”

Rob Lane, Crisis' Dog Service Organiser, first volunteered in Christmas 2004. He signed up for five shifts as a general volunteer at the shelter, but quickly found that the client's dogs won his heart.

“Halfway through my third shift I went to help out in the dogs' area and thought it was really enjoyable, so I stayed there for my remaining shifts'” Rob said.

“I liked it so much that I took over as service organiser the following year. I'm hooked.'

To volunteer for Crisis at Christmas or to find out more, visit their website. 

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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.