Summary of Presentation 1: The health outcomes of neutering bitches before or after puberty, Dr. Rachel Moxon

Rachel Moxon presents her work into neutering timing in relation to puberty. She shares not only the results of the Animals cover issue study that examined the longer-term health outcomes for bitches neutered before or after puberty, but also findings from the wider project, reporting on peri- and postoperative, behavioural, training, growth and physical development outcomes. The presentation closes by highlighting areas of potential future work to increase understandings related to alternative methods of sterilisation and the impact of reproductive hormones on disease.

Summary of Presentation 2: Planning for your Horse Throughout their Life: Developing Resources through Stakeholder Input, Dr. Amelia Cameron

Dr Cameron's presentation describes the multiple study phases that were involved in the development of evidence-based decision-making resources for horse owners and their vets, and the ways in which they are now being trialled in practice. This includes her Animals cover feature study, in which focus groups were utilized to explore equine veterinary and charity teams' experiences of making euthanasia decisions. The TRUSTED resources developed encourage open communication between owners, vets, and other key personnel. They support proactive health care planning throughout horses' lives to help maintain optimal quality of life, up to and including end-of-life care and euthanasia.

Summary of Presentation 3: Nutraceuticals, social interaction, and psychophysiological influence on pet health and well-being: focus on dogs and cats, Dr. Mario Nicotra

As the demand for cats and dogs has increased and their role has shifted from merely working animals to real family members, the interest in their health and well-being has grown. Nutraceuticals and social interactions have been observed to play a supportive role in safeguarding pets’ health and potentially improving their quality of life, thereby ensuring what is called “healthy longevity”.

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