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Police launch appeal after Shetland ponies attacked
Two Shetland ponies were injured in the attack in the early hours of Sunday morning. Image: stock photo.

Ponies sustained wounds consistent with being stabbed

Preston Police are appealing for information following a “deliberate attack” on a group of Shetland ponies.

The incident occurred in the Lea Town area of Preston in the early hours of Sunday morning (20 August). Two Shetland ponies were seriously injured in the attack, one of which has died as a result.

“This appears to be a deliberate attack which has caused great distress, not only to the owner but the animals themselves,” Preston Police said in a statement.

“Both ponies sustained wounds consistent with being slashed/stabbed around the neck and hind areas. We are requesting equine owners to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to us.”

The two ponies involved in the attack, Matilda and Lucas, are owned by 24-year-old Khrystinea Farnworth.

Matilda is now recovering from her injuries, but her son, Lucas, sustained identical wounds and did not survive. Miss Farnworth believes that he may have panicked and suffered from a heart attack.

Speaking to Sky News, she described the incident as “disgusting” and “barbaric”.

"You don't expect it to happen to you. I still can't process what has actually happened,” she said. “We are in the middle of nowhere and have no enemies.”

Anybody with any information that can assist with this investigation can email PC Magee at 8997@lancashire.pnn.police.uk and quote log reference LC-20170820-0693.

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

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.