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Superstar chickens prepare for the red carpet
Chicken
The chickens are owned by traditional farmer Kenny Gracey who runs Forthill Farm in Tandragee.

Boogaloo and Graham nominated for live action short Oscar

Two chickens, who star in the oscar-nominated film Boogaloo and Graham, are preparing to strut their stuff down the Hollywood red carpet.

Filmed entirely in Northern Ireland, Boogaloo and Graham is set in 1970s Belfast and follows two young boys who discover the facts of life, aided by their pet chickens.  The film has received an Oscar nomination in the live action short category.

The chickens are owned by traditional farmer Kenny Gracey who runs Forthill Farm in Tandragee. Known at the 'Doctor Doolittle' of Northern Ireland's film world, Kenny owns a whole host of movie star animals.

Speaking to BBC News, Kenny said: "I have goats, donkeys, deer, chicken, sheep, cattle and white pigeons.

"Goats, Suzy, Kate and Abbey were regulars on the last series of Game of Thrones and Logan-Bishop, the Longhorn Bull, played sidekick to Natalie Portman in Your Highness."

He added: "I have the old types of animals because of my interest in rare breeds.

"They are very apt for older period films where an animal like a Charolais would look out of place. But a Longhorn would be right. So the animals have come into their own. And now, for some people, I'm the first port of call. If I haven't got it, I'll get it."

Mr Gracey told the BBC that he is more than happy to accompany the chickens to Hollywood for the Oscars, if he's needed.

To watch the Boogaloo and Graham trailer visit http://vimeo.com/116878614

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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
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.