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Canine masseuse to run marathon
Lizzie Harrison with Vinnie.
Credit: Battersea Dogs & Cats Home
Race to raise thousands for Battersea

This weekend, a dog massage therapist from Kent will be running the 26-mile Virgin London Marathon, in a bid to raise thousands of pounds for Battersea Dogs & Cats Home.

Lizzie Harrison aims to raise £2000 for the rescue centre by hosting sponsored walks and pub quiz nights. She says: "My fundraising and training was slightly delayed by last month's wintry weather but now I just want to get out there, have fun and raise as much money as possible for Battersea."

Lizzie says she started her mobile canine massage company, Healing Paws, because of her seven-year-old parson russell terrier, Vinnie.

"I chose to raise money for Battersea because, without my dog Vinnie, I would never have looked into canine massage and it has totally changed my life," says Lizzie.

"Running the race is my way of giving something back to all dogs, inside and outside the Home, so they can make a difference to someone's life, like Vinnie has to mine."

Click here for more about Lizzie's challenge.


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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.