Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 19th January 2018
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

Runaway wolf safely recaptured
12-year-old Torak was recaptured in Curridge. (Stock photo)

Gate may have been deliberately left open 

A wolf that escaped from its enclosure in West Berkshire has been safely recaptured.

12-year-old Torak disappeared from the Wolf Conservation Trust in Beenham at around 8 am yesterday (18 January). Thames Valley Police issued an emergency text message to local residents and schools advising them to remain inside.

Later that day, officers confirmed that the wolf had fled to Curridge where it was safely coaxed into a cage. A team of animal catchers were on-hand with tranquilliser darts, but fortunately, they were not required.

Initial reports suggested that strong winds had destroyed the fencing of Torak’s enclosure. But the sanctuary told BBC News that the gate to his enclosure may have been deliberately left open.

"I think somebody deliberately opened the gate. A lot of people don't particularly believe in having animals in captivity,” said sanctuary founder Theresa Palmer. ”When we were near the wolf trust I was close to him but he was frightened and didn't want to be caught.

“The fact he went through a field of sheep shows he would never have been a danger to the public. Now he's given up. He's had his moment of freedom now."

The Wolf Conservation Trust was established more than 20 years ago by Palmer and her late husband. It is a not-for-profit organisation that aims to enhance conservation, scientific knowledge and public awareness of wolves.

The Trust also aims to provide opportunities for ethological research and improve the chances of survival of wolves in the wild. It is currently home to 10 wolves, that live in four groups.

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Lords Committee opens Pet Parasite Medication inquiry

The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee will launch its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medication (PPM) on Wednesday (3 June).

Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.