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Staffie breaks good citizen record
Rescue dog is first to receive award in two countries

A nine-year-old rescue dog from Brighton has become the first dog to be awarded Good Citizen status in two countries.

The Staffordshire bull terrier cross, Maxx, was adopted by current owner Tracey Davidson in New York. Approximately nine kilograms underweight, two-year-old Maxx was despondent, nervous and suffering from several illnesses.

In order to build his confidence, Tracey took him to Canine Good Citizen training classes in Brooklyn, and he passed the test in 2008.

Following this, the pair moved to the UK in 2011, and began training with the Kennel Club (KC) Good Citizen Dog Training Scheme in September 2012.

Since then Maxx has already achieved both Bronze and Silver awards, making him the first dog to ever achieve the good citizen awards in two countries.

Tracey says: "My motivation for training Maxx was to show the public in both the US and UK that Staffies make perfect companions when given proper training by responsible owners."

Tracey's determination has been applauded by instructors at the obedience club. KC accredited instructor, Di Morgan, said: "Tracey is a great handler who has a wonderful rapport with Maxx. We’re delighted that Maxx has achieved this one-of-a-kind accolade. He is a lovely dog."

Image: Tracey and Maxx, Kennel Club

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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.