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Hyena communication techniques
A report has found that hyenas communicate using odours

Hyenas communicate using bacteria in their scent glands, according to a study in the current issue of Scientific Reports.

The study highlights a relationship between hyena clans and the microbes in their scent glands, which contain "odour-producing bacterial communities". Hyenas can distinguish these odours, which differ for each social group, using their noses.

This information was gathered from paste samples of a sour-smelling hyena secretion on the grassy Kenyan plains, as well as samples from hyenas' scent pouches. The samples revealed similarities between deposits left by members of the same clan.

Further studies will look deeper into the relationship between the bacteria and individual hyena clans, as well as finding out what information is being conveyed in this way.

"A critical component of every animal's behavioural repertoire is an effective communication system," said Michigan State University postdoctoral researcher and co-author of the study, Kevin Theis. "It is possible that without their bacteria, many animals couldn't 'say' much at all.

"The complex social lives of [hyenas] may ultimately be reliant upon their unheralded symbiotic microbial communities," added Theis.

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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.