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Battersea dogs enjoy enrichment visit to beach
The five dogs were allowed to explore the beach with their handlers, and enjoyed digging in the sand and playing in the sea.
The day was part of Battersea’s ‘Wear Blue for Rescue’ celebrations.

Rescue dogs from Battersea’s rescue centre enjoyed a beach visit last week as part of Battersea’s ‘Wear Blue for Rescue’ celebrations.

Staff from Battersea’s Brands Hatch centre in Kent took Bounce, Kai, Milo, Dottie and Teddy to the beach as a special treat, where they were able to enjoy some new experiences before they went to their permanent homes.

The five dogs were allowed to explore the beach with their handlers, and enjoyed digging in the sand and playing in the sea.

While four of the five dogs are on their way to new homes, Dottie (pictured) is still looking for a family. Dottie’s profile can be seen here.

The charity’s ‘Wear Blue for Rescue’ campaign has been running throughout September, promoting the importance of caring for rescue dogs and cats.

The campaign has been encouraging pet owners and supporters to come together and wear blue to show their backing for dogs and cats that need a second chance at life, using the hashtag #WearBlueForRescue.

Battersea cared for 2,278 dogs and 2,253 cats across its three rescue centres in 2022, as well as supporting thousands more through their Communities programme and campaigning.

Bethany Montgomery, team leader at Battersea and one of those who took the dogs on their outing, said: “We had a great day taking our dogs out to the beach, they really enjoyed dipping their paws in the sea and running around in the sand.

“Expert care is at the heart of what we do at Battersea, and exploring different surroundings and having new experiences are a vital part of this. Local dog-friendly beaches are a great place for our dogs to stretch their legs and have a fun day out, and what better way to celebrate Battersea’s Wear Blue for Rescue!”

Image © Shutterstock

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
RCVS pays tribute to well-loved equine vet

The RCVS and the Riding Establishments Subcommittee has paid tribute to well-loved veterinary surgeon and riding establishment inspector, Rebecca Hamilton-Fletcher MRCVS.

Linda Belton MRCVS, RCVS President, said: "I, along with my colleagues on the RESC, RCVS Council, RCVS Standards Committee, as well as RCVS staff, was very saddened to hear of the sudden death of Rebecca, or Becca as we knew her, last week.

"She was a true advocate for equine welfare and in her many years on the RESC worked to continually improve the quality and consistency of riding establishment inspections, all in the interests of enhanced horse welfare and rider safety."