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More Owners Abandoning Pregnant Dogs
The number of pregnant dogs abandoned by their owners is on the rise.

Battersea Dogs & Cats Home has revealed that more pregnant dogs are abandoned by owners who have failed to get their dogs neutered.

The number of births at the three South London sites is five times as high as this time last year, with 32 puppies born in Battersea's care compared to only six for the same period in 2010.

While it is often easy to rehome new puppies, Battersea is concerned that pet owners are failing to grasp the consequences of not getting their dog neutered until it is too late.

Battersea's Head of Animal Services Laura Jenkins said: "We believe that the number of unwanted animals coming through the Home's doors would be significantly reduced if more people took the responsible decision to neuter their pets."

Laura Jenkins added: "It's a common misconception that neutering is cruel as it actually has significant health benefits including reducing the risk of womb infection and tumours in both cats and dogs."

Battersea advises that owners must be urged to neuter their pets, to help prevent owners who cannot cope with unwanted puppies, abandoning their dogs. 

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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.  

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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.