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Giraffes enjoy Valentine’s Day enrichment
“Led by queen bee Ellish, the single ladies used their dextrous elongated tongues to tug the pretty petals off the heart-shaped wreath in a matter of moments."
Zoo keepers provide heart-shaped wreath of tasty flowers 

Giraffes at ZSL London Zoo are celebrating Valentine’s Day early with a special heart-shaped treat, provided by zoo keepers.

The trio of female giraffes - Ellish, Margaret and Mollie - tucked into a wreath made of juicy flowers, to mark the annual day of romance.

ZSL giraffe keeper Louise Jackobson said: “Like all girls, our giraffes love to receive a bunch of flowers, especially on Valentine’s Day – although their tasty blooms didn’t last very long!
 
“Led by queen bee Ellish, the single ladies used their dextrous elongated tongues to tug the pretty petals off the heart-shaped wreath in a matter of moments – just like when they tug vegetation and flowers off the very tops of trees to eat.”

The zoo offers lovebirds the chance to meet and feed the giraffes as part of a VIP experience package for two this Valentine’s Day. For more information see: zsl.org/meet-the-animals/zsl-london-zoo

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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.