Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 27th June 2022
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

Rabbit Awareness Week 2022 begins
Each day of RAW will focus on sharing information on different aspects on rabbit environment.

Organisers are encouraging vet practices to support the initiative.

Rabbit Awareness Week (RAW) has gotten underway for 2022, with veterinary practices encouraged to take part and promote this year's theme – Room for Rabbits.

The UK's largest campaign dedicated to rabbit welfare, RAW 2022 (27 June - 1 July) is focused on educating owners to provide their rabbits with a suitable environment, after the latest PDSA PAW Report found that 49 per cent of UK rabbits live alone, and a quarter of UK rabbits are kept in inadequate housing conditions.

The organisers of RAW will share content on its Facebook and Instagram pages, including Q&A sessions with veterinary professionals, blogs and videos on creating great environments for rabbits, including adapting housing for all seasons.

With plenty of time to get involved, RAW organisers are encouraging veterinary practices to download a free RAW pack and speak to clients about rabbit housing and welfare.

Beginning with information on keeping rabbits' housing clean and in good condition, the first day of RAW is providing owners with a cleaning schedule for rabbit housing, with plenty of top tips offered throughout the day.

Creating a suitable set-up in both indoor and outdoor environments, including enrichment ideas and litter training, will be the focus of days two and three, and adapting rabbits' housing for all seasons will be the focus of day four.

On RAW's final day, it will focus on creating or extending a welfare-rich environment on a budget.

Promoting the Room for Rabbits theme, the RSPCA is marking Rabbit Awareness Week by highlighting the large number of rabbits coming into its care.

Dr Jane Tyson, RSPCA rabbit welfare expert, said: “It’s more important than ever on this Rabbit Awareness Week that we spread the message to people to do their research before taking on a pet.

“Rabbits can live for a long time and can be costly, they need much more than just a hutch at the end of the garden - they need space, companionship and enrichment to live happy and healthy lives.”

 

Images (C) Rabbit Awareness Week/RAAG

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Lords Committee opens Pet Parasite Medication inquiry

The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee will launch its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medication (PPM) on Wednesday (3 June).

Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.