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Battersea campaign to help Staffies
Image: Care2.com
Campaign to challenge public perception of breed

Battersea Dogs & Cats Home is attempting to rehabilitate the image of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. The "Staffies. They're Softer Than You Think" campaign has been designed to challenge the public perception of the breed and tackle common misconceptions which have led to the breed acquiring a reputation for being dangerous.

The popular image of the breed as being a fighting dog that is a threat to public safety comes as dramatic contrast to the earlier reputation of the breed as being good with children and the previous nickname of 'Nanny dogs' . A YouGov survey commissioned by Battersea found that 14% of 18-24 years olds surveyed incorrectly described the breed as 'illegal' and that only 10% of a sample of 2116 people recognised that the breed could be a family pet.

Commenting, Chief Executive of Battersea Dogs & Cats Home Claire Horton said "More people consider the dog to be a fighting dog than a family dog. It's time we gave the breed a chance and got to know Staffies for the lovely, friendly dogs they really are...We're working with many proud, responsible owners to champion the positive qualities of the breed, as it's vital that we tackle the issue at its source. Staffies will only stand a chance if we dispel the notion of a dog as a weapon or accessory in inner-city communities."

More information about the campaign can be found here.

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FIVP launches CMA remedies survey

News Story 1
 FIVP has shared a survey, inviting those working in independent practice to share their views on the CMA's proposed remedies.

The Impact Assessment will help inform the group's response to the CMA, as it prepares to submit further evidence to the Inquiry Group. FIVP will also be attending a hearing in November.

Data will be anonymised and used solely for FIVP's response to the CMA. The survey will close on Friday, 31 October 2025. 

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.