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Investigation launched after spate of cat poisoning
Antifreeze
Over 40 cats have been killed by anti-freeze in Boston.
44 cats killed in Boston

An investigation has been launched following the deaths of over 40 cats in Lincolnshire.

The police and the RSPCA are investigating after reports that at least 44 cats have died from anti-freeze poisoning, most of them in Woad Farm Road in Boston.

Speaking to the BBC, local vet Michael Kettle said: "This must be malicious because of the numbers, and the type of poison that is being used.

"The animals are coming in with extreme lethargy, shock and then they go into acute kidney failure and there is not much we can do for them, death occurs two days later.

Pet owners living in the area say that they are devastated by the deaths and are too scared to let their cats go outdoors.

Emma Hibbert, whose family has lost two cats, told the BBC: "It is hugely devastating having to tell your children that you have had to put the beloved family pet down.

"I have bi-polar disorder so these cats were a big part of my life but we just can't face any more pain.

"It's had an impact on the street as a whole, people won't let there cats out nobody will buy a new cat because they are scared they are giving it a death sentence."

The RSPCA says that the deaths are unlikely to be accidental due to the time of year. They are policing the area with Lincolnshire police officers and are asking residents to remain vigilant. 

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Birmingham Dogs Home makes urgent appeal

News Story 1
 Birmingham Dogs Home has issued an urgent winter appeal as it faces more challenges over the Christmas period.

The rescue centre has seen a dramatic increase in dogs coming into its care, and is currently caring for over 200 dogs. With rising costs and dropping temperatures, the charity is calling for urgent support.

It costs the charity £6,000 per day to continue its work.

Fi Harrison, head of fundraising and communications, said: "It's heart-breaking for our team to see the conditions some dogs arrive in. We really are their last chance and hope of survival."

More information about the appeal can be found here

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Avian flu confirmed at premises in Cornwall

A case of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been detected in commercial poultry at a premises near Rosudgeon, Cornwall.

All poultry on the infected site will be humanely culled, and a 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone have been put in place. Poultry and other captive birds in the 3km protection zone must be housed.

The case is the second avian flu case confirmed in commercial poultry this month. The H5N5 strain was detected in a premises near Hornsea, East Riding of Yorkshire, in early November. Before then, the disease had not been confirmed in captive birds in England since February.

The UK chief veterinary officer has urged bird keepers to remain alert and practise robust biosecurity.

A map of the disease control zones can be found here.