Defra said it was “right” to give them the same rights as other dog owners, although the exemption only applies to dogs that were in their care when the ban timetable was outlined.

A Cheshire practice has saved the sight of a three-year-old cocker spaniel who couldn’t even open her eyes because of six ulcers in them.

A newly published study argues new insights into how the infection progresses can help the development of medicine specifically targeting the process.

Total of 27 animals now affected by the virus after more cases are confirmed in Norfolk and Kent.

In a newly released open letter to the prime minister, the group said more time was urgently needed for owners, vets and rescue centres to “do the best for the dogs in our care”.

The BVA and RSPCA have both welcomed plans for tougher rules, but say Defra must work with veterinary and zoological groups on how they are implemented.

Four category results have now been declared and an overall champion of the inaugural scheme will be named at the group’s annual congress next month.

Working group says efforts to discourage owners from buying a brachycephalic dog must continue, despite signs that the message may be starting to get across to the public.

A total of 23 animals in England have now been confirmed to have the virus since the initial case was detected last month, though officials maintain they do not believe it is circulating more widely.

Legislation tackling pet smuggling, theft and hunting trophies have been presented to Parliament, prompting fresh optimism they might finally become law in 2024.

The Government appears to reaffirm support for culling, following recent commitments against it by Labour, during the National TB Conference in Worcester.

With six months to go until new legal requirements come into force in England, pet owners are being encouraged to book appointments.

Association of animal medicine companies said measures to ban use of several pesticide substances would severely reduce treatment options.

Many common festive foods and decorations can be dangerous to pets, and the association hopes its members won’t be called to deal with emergencies during this festive season.

Dogs Trust said calls to its Together Through Homelessness scheme rocketed by 82% in a three-month period compared with last year.

Two cattle in Norfolk have been confirmed to have the disease, although officials insist there is still no sign the virus is circulating.

New RVC research has indicated significant variation in how owners provide additional vitamin D to their alpacas and called for further study to establish “gold standard” practices in the area.

World Horse Welfare has urged EU member states to back measures to cut the maximum journey time for animals being taken to slaughter.

Nine animals have now been found to have the disease since the first infection was discovered in Kent last month.

Inspectors believe the animal tied to a fence with a belt near a Cheltenham primary school was deliberately targeted.

Three charities that estimate they have campaigned for more than 200 years between them have hailed the launch of a new Government bill to boycott them.

The BVA and BSAVA have joined together to release a new policy paper calling for tighter rules, harsher sentences and increased enforcement.

Developers of the VetCycle programme say it enables veterinary businesses to reuse a wider range of products that can’t be recycled through regular methods.

The RCVS plans to issue new guidance before its new EMS rules come into force next year, but the BVU wants more done to prevent students being “impoverished”.

Although the latest was recorded outside the original restriction zone, officials say there is no evidence of the virus circulating among the midge population.

Analysis by Wildlife and Countryside Link and Wales Environment Link found too many offences are going unpunished after prosecutions fell by more than 40% last year.