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RSPCA calls for Grand National changes
Image - Richard Humphrey
Changes recommended to improve safety

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) has called for changes to the Grand National to improve safety after the deaths of two horses, According to Pete and Synchronised, at this year's event. The call comes after a review by the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) concluded that “factors one could neither have foreseen nor prevented were prevalent in the events that led to the two horses sustaining their injuries."


After taking advice from the equine inspector's team who were present at the jumps and horseracing consultant David Muir, the RSPCA has called for:
  • A reduction in the number of starters to include only experienced jockeys and horses
  • The removal of Becher's Brook
  • A re-design of the cores of fences
  • Levelling of drop landings
  • Changes to the start
  • The automatic withdrawal of horses which bolt and unseat their jockeys
  • An urgent review of communications and positioning of horse catchers
Commenting, RSPCA Chief Executive Gavin Grant said “We need change, a smaller and better qualified field, an end to killer fences like Becher’s Brook, which we believe was instrumental in the deaths of both Synchronised and According To Pete. We hope the BHA and Aintree will work with the RSPCA to make the Grand National a true test of jockeys’ skills but not at the cost of horses’ lives.”

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Survey launched to investigate EHV

News Story 1
 Zoetis has launched a new survey to identify management techniques for Equine Herpes Virus (EHV).

EHV is a contagious, airborne virus that can cause respiratory problems and severe diseases in horses and ponies. It spreads among horses over short distances, direct contact and through shared equipment.

The survey will explore current knowledge and management practices with EHV in the UK. It is quick to complete and participants could win one of 10 equine first aid kits.

Complete the survey here. 

Click here for more...
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The Dog and Cat Welfare During Transport factsheet provides step-by-step guidance for all stages of a journey, from pre-travel checklists to post-travel care.

Brachycephalic breeds or animals prone to travel-related anxiety are given special focus in this guide, which also provides links to IATA container regulation and WSAVA vaccination guidelines.