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Campaign success for Street Cat Bob author
Bob and James
James Bowen found his cat, Bob, in 2007 and the pair have been inseparable ever since.
James Bowen has raised over £90,000 towards cafe for homeless cats

James Bowen, author of A Street Cat Named Bob, has reached the halfway mark in plans to open a cat cafe to raise funds for homelessness and animal charities.

The former Big Issue seller has raised over £90,000 of his £125,000 target. The funds will be used to provide a home for abused, homeless and unwanted cats, whilst providing a safe-haven for individuals to have tea, coffee and refreshments.

Some of the proceeds will be donated to both animal and human causes, including the Big Issue Foundation for homeless people, and several other animal and literacy related charities.

Commenting on the campaign's success, James Bowen said: “I’m extremely happy that we have managed to raise over 50 per cent of our fundraising goal. I hope people continue to support the campaign so the cat cafe can become a reality and we can offer abandoned kitties a loving home, medical support and useful advice to all those who, like me, love these clever felines. In addition, we will be able to continue our important charity work, benefiting less fortunate people.”
 
A wide array of perks are available to the campaign's funders, including an exclusive t-shirt and mug. For a more personal touch, contributors can get a personal thank you letter written by James and Bob, or even enjoy afternoon tea with them. The newest perk is an exclusive ticket to the cafe's grand opening!

To contribute to the campaign, visit www.indoegogo.com

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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.