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Lula and Simba rescued from Mosul zoo
Lula
Lula (pictured) and Simba will remain in their temporary enclosures until they have adapted to their new surroundings

Animals transferred to a rescue centre in Jordan

International rescue team FOUR PAWS are celebrating following the successful rescue of lion Simba and bear Lula from the bombed-out Montazah Al-Morour Zoo in Mosul, Iraq.

FOUR PAWS arrived in Mosul several weeks ago following an armed conflict between Iraqi and IS forces. They found the animals starving and in desperate need of care - the bombings had killed many of the animals, while several more escaped.

In March, FOUR PAWS attempted to rescue the last two remaining animals - Simba and Lula - but their attempt was thwarted after the military prevented them from crossing the border. Simba and Lula have since spent the last nine days waiting at a checkpoint controlled by the Iraqi Army and the Kurdistan region.

Now, following lengthy negotiations with representatives of the government, Simba and Lula have finally arrived at the rescue and rehabilitation centre New Hope in Amman, Jordan. Yesterday (11 April), FOUR PAWS released the animals into temporary enclosures where they can now begin their recovery.

“It has been a massive challenge but now we are so happy that we’ve been able to bring Lula and Simba to New Hope Centre where they are well cared for,” said FOUR PAWS vet and leader of the mission Dr Amil Khalil.

“From now on they will have a much better life. With proper food, veterinary care and in a species appropriate environment, they can live without the constant danger of a nearby war-zone and the noise of bomb blasts in the background.”

Lula and Simba will remain in their temporary enclosures until they have adapted to their new surroundings and their permanent enclosure is ready for them.

The New Hope Centre, which is financially supported by FOUR PAWS, was established in January 2010 by the Princess Alia Foundation. The purpose of the centre is to provide rehoming, rehabilitation and veterinary treatment for animals rescued from very poor keeping conditions.

FOUR PAWS have set up a fundraising page to help give Lula and Simba a welcoming, species-appropriate enclosure with enough space for them to act out their natural instincts. To pledge your support to the campaign, visit: https://action.four-paws.org.uk/donate/iraq

Image (C) FOUR PAWS

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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.