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Search continues for runaway raccoon
Raccoons are among the animals kept at Sunderland Training and Education Farm.
The missing mammal is believed to be hiding in woodland.

The hunt to find a raccoon on the loose from a community farm in Sunderland has passed the fifty-day mark.

Meeko and two female racoons are believed to have been let out by a trespasser on 18 December. The two females were soon lured back by hot dogs left in a crate at the farm, but Meeko is yet to be caught.

Efforts to recapture Meeko are being led by Raccoon Rescue UK. The escapee is thought to be hiding in local woodland and paw-print evidence suggests he may be returning to the farm to eat before heading back to the woods.

Humane traps have been set at the farm and in the woodland.

Image © Shutterstock

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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.