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British national 'killed by poachers'
Roger Gower
According to FCF, Mr Gower was killed while piloting a helicopter as part of a team effort with wildlife authorities to trace and arrest elephant poachers.

Conservation group mourns loss of Roger Gower

British national Roger Gower was killed in the fight against elephant poaching in Tanzania last week, according to the Friedkin Conservation Fund (FCF).

In a statement on the group's website, chairman Dan Friedkin said: "We are profoundly saddened by the loss of our dear friend".

Confirming the news, a spokeswoman from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office said: "We can confirm the death of a British national in Tanzania and are providing assistance to the family at this difficult time."

According to FCF, Mr Gower was killed while piloting a helicopter as part of a team effort with wildlife authorities to trace and arrest elephant poachers. Poachers are said to have opened fire on the helicopter, fatally wounding Mr Gower.

"We believe that Roger can best be honoured by redoubling our commitment to protect elephants and our priceless wildlife heritage," Mr Friedkin added.

"This tragic event again highlights the appalling risk and cost of protecting Tanzania¹s wildlife."

Image courtesy of FCF

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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.