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Escaped snake reunited with owner after 18 months
corn snake
Paul was reunited with Heston after providing descriptions of very distinctive marks matching those of the escapee.

Pet rescued from neighbour’s drainpipe
 
Heston, the corn snake, escaped from his vivarium and has been found 18 months later at a neighbouring property in Strand Road, Wirral.

Animal welfare officer John Littlewood was called to the home to rescue Heston last Wednesday, after he was spotted slithering out of plastic piping from a neighbour’s washing machine.

Owner Paul Sheratt was "shocked" when the snake was confirmed as Heston, after giving up hope of finding him. "I was talking to a neighbour when they mentioned that a snake had been found at one of the houses on the street. When they described it to me it did sound just like Heston."

Mr Sheratt was reunited with Heston after providing descriptions of very distinctive marks matching those of the escapee.

Mr Littlewood said: "It is very unusual for a snake to survive on his own in the open for so long as snakes have very particular environmental needs."

The RSPCA are advising owners to ensure their vivaria are safe and secure to prevent snakes escaping.

Mr Sheratt is delighted to have him home. "It’s great to have him back. We just wonder where he has been all this time!"

Image © RSPCA

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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.