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Britain's dog owners quizzed about walking habits       
dog walkers
Dog walkers cover more than 1,000 miles each year, a poll has revealed.
Guide Dogs has conducted a dog-walker survey, in advance of London's largest dog walk

To mark the launch of Dogs Unite, a series of sponsored walks to support Guide Dogs, a poll has revealed just how often the nations’ canines get walked, and what their owners commonly spend this time thinking about.

The poll reveals that dog walkers spend an impressive average of 382 hours walking their four-legged friends, covering an average of 1100 miles every year. This equates to a 75,000 calorie burn, equivalent to a whopping 312 jam doughnuts.

Owners were also quizzed on what they think about whilst walking their dogs. More than half said they think about their family and friends and 46 per cent consider their future plans.

Proving that dog walking is promoting a healthier nation, 46 per cent also said they think about health and fitness whilst out strolling with their pets.

The average dog walk lasts for 49 minutes, and takes place nine times a week, which comfortably exceeds the recommended 30 minutes of exercise five times weekly. Scottish dog walkers were shown to be the most enthusiastic, walking their pets an average of 11 times a week, compared to eight times a week in London.

Dogs Unite will kick off on June 14 with London's largest dog walk. The sponsored walk, which will take place at the newly opened Queen Elizabeth Park, will raise money for Guide Dogs, the heroes of the canine world, changing the lives of people challenged by sight loss.

As well as beautiful parkland and waterways, there will be a dedicated event village hosting dog shows and opportunities to meet guide dog puppies, ensuring fun for the whole family.

To book tickets for this event or to find out more about Dogs Unite, click here. Book before the May 6 for half price tickets.

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Equine Disease Surveillance report released for Q4 2025

News Story 1
 The latest Equine Disease Surveillance report has been released, with details on equine disease from Q4 of 2025.

The report, produced by Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance, includes advice on rule changes for equine influenza vaccination.

Statistics and maps detail recent outbreaks of equine herpes virus, equine influenza, equine strangles and equine grass sickness. A series of laboratory reports provides data on virology, bacteriology, parasitology and toxicosis.

This issue also features a case study of orthoflavivus-associated neurological disease in a horse in the UK. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
RCVS annual renewal fee for vets due

RCVS' annual renewal fee for veterinary surgeons is now due. Vets must pay their renewal fee before Wednesday, 1 April 2026.

This year's standard annual fee has increased to 431 from last year's 418. This is an approximately three per cent increase, as approved by RCVS Council and the Privy Council.

Tshidi Gardner, RCVS treasurer, said: "The small fee increase will be used to help deliver both our everyday activities and our new ambitious Strategic Plan, which includes aims such as achieving new legislation, reviewing the Codes of Professional Conduct and supporting guidance, and continuing to support the professions through activities such as the Mind Matters Initiative, RCVS Academy and career development."

A full breakdown of the new fees is on the RCVS website. Information about tax relief is available on the UK government website.