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Regimental goat appointed by Welsh battalion
Fusilier Llywelyn
Army Wales posted on Twitter: 'The cutest kid ever to parade to a drumbeat. Meet the new Regimental Goat for @TheRoyalWelsh @BritishArmy' (Image: @Army_Wales)
Fusilier Llywelyn is the new kid at The Royal Welsh

A new regimental goat has been appointed by the 1st battalion of The Royal Welsh. Nearly 500 soldiers lined the streets as Fusilier Llywelyn took his first steps on the road to a promising military career.

For centuries it has been tradition for a goat to lead every Royal Welsh parade. There are many theories as to why - some say that heroic goats saved the lives of men in battle by bleating warnings to the sentries on duty.

Another explanation could be that goats were such a familiar part of the Welsh landscape, that they were taken into battle as a reminder of home.

After the death of Fus. Llywelyn's predecessor - Lance Corporal Gwillam 'Taffy VI' Jenkins - the battalion began searching for a new recruit from the royal herd at Great Orme, Wales.

Last week, Fus. Llywelyn led his first official parade, the annual Rorke's Drift parade in the Garrison town of Tidworth.

It is the custom for a member of the battalion to be appointed 'goat major', taking overall responsibility for the regimental goat. Daily duties include watering, feeding, exercising and grooming.

Current goat major, Fus. Mathew Owen, believes the new recruit has star quality.

Speaking on the day of the parade, he said: "Since he was recruited in November Llywelyn has undergone intensive training, and preparing for his pass out today.

"He worked very hard this morning and was absolutely fantastic. Llywelyn has loved the attention, he is one for stardom."

 

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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.