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Park officials attacked by squirrel
Image - Peter Trimming
'Berserk' squirrel disrupts planning meeting

Public officials for the Polish City of Bialystok were alarmed at being obliged to suspend a meeting in which they were discussing the felling of trees in a public park after a squirrel came into the office in which the meeting was being held by way of an open window and 'went berserk'.

The squirrel promptly set about destroying the officials' plans for the forestry programme in the public park and related paperwork. "If I didn't know it was impossible, I'd think he'd overheard us planning to cut his trees down." related one official.

The squirrel was eventually captured by wildlife experts and released in nearby woodland. 

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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.