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Latitude criticised over pink sheep
The RSPCA said: "We want all animals treated with kindness and respect and would discourage people from painting or dying animals for novelty purposes.”
Petition calls on festival to end its 14-year tradition 

Latitude Festival has defended social media posts showing sheep that were dyed pink to promote the event, which took place last week (18-21 July).

A video showing the sheep being released at Henham Park prompted a backlash on social media after being posted to Instagram.

While some defended the sheep-dyeing tradition - which has become a signature of the festival for the past 14 years - others branded it ‘cruel’ and ‘disgusting’.

According to BBC News, Latitude organisers said the water-based dye is not harmful and sheep welfare is the priority for farmers.

A spokesperson for the RSPCA added that it would be writing to the organisers.

“We want all animals treated with kindness and respect and would discourage people from painting or dying animals for novelty purposes.”

A petition on Change.org is calling for Latitude to cease the tradition and to remove the animals from the festival, where they are exposed to ‘loud noise and drunken revellers’. It has been signed by more than 4,500 people.

Latitude has been approached for comment.

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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.