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Shire horse tug of war called off
shire horses
Lizard Stallions said shire horses have undergone 1,000 years of breeding to pull loads.
Cornwall show stops tug of war bouts after online criticism

Tug of war bouts involving shire horses will no longer take place at the Royal Cornwall Show, organisers have confirmed.

Shire horse stallion George, of the Lizard Stallions company, was involved in tug of war challenges with rugby teams last week. However, the display attracted significant online criticism from members of the public with welfare concerns.

Show organisers said on Twitter: "We have considered comments some made regarding the Lizard Stallions. Their display will no longer include the tug of war challenge."

Responding to criticisms on Facebook, Lizard Stallions - who offer shire experience days, horse drawn trips and wedding transport - said: "This is George's job 5 days a week during our busy period. He weighs just over a ton and believe me when I say, if he didn't want to do it he wouldn't.

"We care considerably for our horses and would never put them in any danger. We are surrounded by very experienced animal professionals and no concerns have been raised by them."

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Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

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News Shorts
Lords Committee opens Pet Parasite Medication inquiry

The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee will launch its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medication (PPM) on Wednesday (3 June).

Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.