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Research into dog owner fitness

Survey reveals healthier lifestyle for those with dogs

The Kennel Club (KC) has revealed that dog owners are three times more likely to be in-shape than those who do not own a dog.

Commissioned as part of the club's Get Fit with Fido campaign, which promotes finding enjoyable ways for dogs and their owners to exercise together, the research has highlighted some interesting statistics.

It was revealed that a quarter on non-pet owners and almost 20 per cent of cat owners admit to never exercising, compared with just 12 per cent of dog owners.

The survey also revealed that half of non-pet owners are overweight, compared to just 40 per cent of people who own a dog.

Get Fit with Fido was launched by the KC in 2008, in response to a rise in pet and owner obesity, and has been supported throughout by exercise guru Rosemary Conley.

"It is shocking to see that so many people not only fail to exercise daily but many are failing to exercise at all," she said.

"Too many people see exercise as a chore, but dog owners can enjoy spending quality time walking their dog, or taking part in sports such as agility, whilst keeping fit in the process."

The results have been released ahead of the KC International Agility Festival for dogs, which takes place at Rockingham Castle, Northamptonshire, from August 9 - 11.

Image courtesy of Victoria Ludley, the KC

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National Pet Month fights flab
Owners and dogs get fit together

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Greyhound Board announces change to vaccination guidance

News Story 1
 The Greyhound Board of Great Britain has published new vaccination guidance, with all greyhounds registered from 1 January, 2027 required to have the L4 leptospirosis vaccination, rather than L2.

The change comes in response to the reduced availability of the 'L2' Leptospirosis vaccine across the UK, and aims to support best biosecurity practice across the racing greyhound population.

GBGB veterinary director Simon Gower, said "While rare, Leptospirosis is a serious infectious disease that can affect both dogs and humans, so it is vital that we offer our greyhounds the broadest possible protection.  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Free webinar explores congenital heart disease in dogs

A free webinar is to provide veterinary professionals, dog breeders and pet owners an new insights into congenital heart disease.

Chris Linney, a cardiology specialist and Veterinary Cardiovascular Society (VSC) member, will present the webinar from 7.00pm to 8.30pm on Wednesday, 12 November.

Dr Linney will explore the types, causes and clinical presentation of congenital heart conditions. This will include diagnostic approaches, treatment pathways and emerging research opportunities.

The session is the third to be organised by The Kennel Club, with the VCS, following an introductory webinar and a talk on acquired heart disease. Dr Linney's webinar consists of a one-hour presentation, followed by a 30-minute question and answer session.

Dr Linney said: "This webinar will be an opportunity to deepen understanding - not just of the diseases themselves, but of how breeders, vets and owners can work together to support affected dogs and improve outcomes for future generations."

Click here to register for the webinar.