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Finn’s Law receives Royal Assent
PC Dave Wardell and his now-retired police dog Finn (pictured) were both stabbed whilst chasing a suspect in October 2016.

Bill will be known as the ‘Animal Welfare (Service Animals) Act 2019

The Animal Welfare (Service Animals) Bill has been given Royal Assent, meaning that it will now be an offence to harm a service animal in the line of duty.

The Bill, more commonly known as Finn’s Law, received Royal Assent in the House of Lords last night (8 April). It will now be known as the ‘Animal Welfare (Service Animals) Act 2019.

It comes after a campaign led by PC Dave Wardell and his now-retired police dog Finn, who were both stabbed whilst chasing a robbery suspect in October 2016. The defendant was charged with actual bodily harm for injuring the handler, but only criminal damage for harming Finn.

Thanks to the tireless efforts of Dave Wardell and campaigners, the government introduced new sentencing guidelines for attacks on police animals. Then, in 2018, the government announced its support for Finn's Law and published a new Bill that would give service animals greater protection.

Upon hearing the Bill had received Royal Assent, PC Dave Wardell Tweeted: “What absolutely amazing news to wake up to #Finnslaw has got Royal Assent. What an amazing legacy.  

“I want to thank @finnforchange and @OliverHealdUK And of course #FabulousFinn for his selfless actions that night!”

Image (C) Dave Wardell.

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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.