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World record for tallest cow ever
Blosom with her owner Patty
Blosom towered over her owner at more than 6ft tall.

Holstein cow measured over 6ft tall

Much-loved cow Blosom has been recognised as the tallest cow ever in the Guinness World Records, after sadly passing away earlier this year.

Blosom towered over her owner Patty Meads-Hanson at a staggering height of 190cm - more than 6ft tall.

Patty had owned the female Holstein cow since she was just eight weeks old. Remarkably, Patty says she was born to two normal-sized cows but she just kept growing and growing.

Blosom was officially measured by Guinness World Records in May last year. Footage was taken of her wandering around open, lush green farmland at her home in Orangeville, Illinois.

“The funny thing about Blosom was how unaffected she was by all the attention that seemed to surround her," said Patty. "As long as she had her oats, and daily chin rubs and ear scratches, life was good."

Blosom sadly passed away at the age of 13 in May of this year due to an irreparable leg injury.

Patty said she treated Blosom like any other pet and loved spending time with her in the field.

"I will cherish our memories forever... I am excited for the world to meet Blosom soon in the [Guinness World Record] 2016 edition, but I know it will be very bitter-sweet."

Guinness World Records editor-in-chief, Craig Glenday said he was "devastated" to hear of Blosom's death. "She was such a friendly and gorgeous animal and her owner equally as wonderful and took such great care of her.

"She is definitely one of the standout highlights in our upcoming book and we hope the world enjoys seeing the pictures of her."

Image © Guinness World Record

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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.