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Police officer rescues cat at Notting Hill Carnival
Reggae the cat, with RSPCA officer Jill Sanders and PC Curry.

Collapsed cat found surrounded by thousands of revellers 

A police officer working to keep the streets safe during Notting Hill Carnival stepped in to help a collapsed cat, who was found in the road surrounded by revellers.

Thousands of officers lined the streets of London last weekend to help carnival-goers enjoy the capital’s biggest annual event safely. But PC Curry also had his eyes peeled for any animals needing assistance.

RSPCA animal collection officer Jill Sanders said: “PC Curry was on duty on Bank Holiday Monday (27 August) when he spotted the poor puss collapsed in Wornington Road, Kensington, and knew something was wrong. She was struggling to use one of her legs and was clearly in pain so he got in touch with us.

“Police officers allowed me to drive into the pedestrianised zone so I could collect the poorly puss and get her to safety.”

The cat, who has been named Reggae by RSPCA staff, was not wearing a collar or ID tag so she is thought to be a stray. She is now being treated by veterinary staff, who believe she has feline influenza, as well as a broken leg.

ACO Sanders added: “The Met do a fabulous job every year policing our streets and work incredibly hard to make the city safe during events like Notting Hill Carnival.

“We work with them very closely on animal welfare matters and they value the safety of our four-legged friends’ almost as much as our own.

“I’d like to say a big thank you to all of the officers who helped facilitate the rescue of Reggae - by letting me drive through road closures and directing me to her location - and PC Curry for helping her get the help she needed.”

Anyone who believes Reggae may be their pet should contact the RSPCA’s Putney Animal Hospital on 0300 123 0716.

Image © RSPCA

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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.