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Miniature piglet racing a hit!
Image - www.pennywellfarm.co.uk
Specially bred pigs race after months of training

The introduction of miniature piglet racing at Pennywell Farm in Devon has proven to be a spectacular hit, and the inaugural race (held after months of training) saw 9 month-old Red Runt successfully negotiate the trials of Bacon Brook and the Trough to beat fellow miniature piglets Silk Purse, Pigarkel and Celestial Swine to first place.

Farmers Chris and Nicky Murray ran through a breeding programme spanning nine years and 24 generations to establish the Pennywell Miniature Pigs breed, which have been bred for small size and friendliness to the point where they are approximately one-fifth the size of a conventional piglet. The smallest pig bred thus far was named Tetley after it was discovered that he could fit into a teacup, although the average piglet only weighs in at 250g (8oz) at birth.

"The pigs have been hamming it up, the visitors have been all out in supporting them and it's odds on we have a classic activity in the making." said Mr Murray, who has been farming at Pennywell since 1988. The Pennywell 'Ham Stakes' will run daily at 2pm, and more information about the farm's opening times is available here.

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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.