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Three cubs born to sterilised lion
White lion cub
The lion park says it is at a loss to explain the miraculous conception.

Sanctuary enjoys a 'white Christmas'
 
A sterilised white lion has miraculously fathered a trio of white lion cubs. Coming just in time for the festive season, their birth has been dubbed a "Christmas miracle".

Drakenstein Lion Park is a non-breeding sanctuary in South Africa that rescues lions from abusive environments.

Staff at the park noticed their five-year-old lioness Nala was behaving strangely a few days before Christmas. Much to their surprise, they discovered she had been hiding three cubs.

Nala's mate Brutus was surgically sterilised more than three years ago. The operation was believed to have been a success as both Brutus and Nala have been sexually mature for more than three years without any previous mishaps.

The lion park says it is at a loss to explain the miraculous conception. Nonetheless, Nala and Brutus are reportedly proving to be great first-time parents.

When it's safe for the cubs, Brutus will undergo a second vasectomy.

Image courtesy of Drakenstein Lion Park

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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.