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The purr-fect remedy for 'Blue Monday'
Cat and human
Cats are not just great company - they can be good for you too!
A cat's purr can be good for you

Cats Protection have released recordings of cats purring to relieve the stress of 'Blue Monday' (January 19), said to be the most depressing day of the year.

Widely recognised as having therapeutic benefits for humans, the charity says that a cat's purr can help fight the inevitable January gloom brought on by cold weather, failed New Years' resolutions and overhanging debt from Christmas.

Furthermore, curling up with a feline friend is even known to lower blood pressure - possibly because the reassuring hum is generally associated with calmness and gentle communication, or perhaps it is because the frequency of the vibration is in the range that can stimulate healing.

The recommendation is supported by a survey which revealed that almost 90 per cent of cat owners felt that their cat had a positive impact on their wellbeing, whilst just over 75 per cent said that they could manage everyday life much better thanks to the company of their feline friends.

Fifty per cent of the cat owners surveyed felt that their cat's presence and companionship helped them most, followed by a third of respondents describing stroking a cat as 'helpful' and 'calming'.

You can listen to the relaxing sound of Phoenix, Buddy and Maddie purring at www.soundcloud.com/cats-protection

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FIVP announces third series of Practice Matters

News Story 1
 The Federation of Independent Veterinary practices (FIVP) has announced a third season of its podcast, Practice Matters.

Hosted by Ian Wolstenholme, series three will focus on the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) investigation, including a discussion about some of the expected impacts on independent veterinary colleagues.

Episode one launches on 13th January with guests Drs David Reader and Scott Summers, who will draw on their research into the CMA investigation and provide insights into themes such as transparency, pricing and consumer trust.

Ian Wolstenholme said: "In its third series, we will try and hone in on what the changes will mean in reality for independent practices with advice and guidance on implementation and delivery, drawing on the experience of our own team and other experts in the profession. Hope you can join us soon!" 

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News Shorts
Survey seeks ruminant sector views on antimicrobial stewardship

A new survey is seeking views of people working in the UK ruminant sector on how to tackle the challenge of demonstrating responsible antibiotic stewardship.

Forming part of a wider, collaborative initiative, the results will help identify the types of data available so that challenges with data collection can be better understood and addressed.

Anyone working in the UK farming sector, including vets and farmers,is encouraged to complete the survey, which is available at app.onlinesurveys.jisc.ac.uk