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Lost canary nicknamed after Boris Johnson
The little bird’s fluffy blonde head reminded RSPCA staff of the new Prime Minister.
RSPCA seeking owner of bird that resembles new PM 

A lost pet canary has been nicknamed Boris because of his bouffant hairstyle, which reminded RSPCA staff of the new Prime Minister.

Boris the yellow canary was found flying loose with a budgie in a park near Farm Lane, Plymouth. A member of the public spotted the pair and knew they must be lost pets as they both had rings on their legs.

RSPCA animal collection officer Megan Higgins said: “She managed to catch the birds and took them home before calling us in.

“The budgie’s owner was quickly tracked down and reunited with their missing pet but, unfortunately, we’ve not been able to trace this sweet little canary’s owner.”

The little bird’s fluffy blonde head reminded staff at the RSPCA Little Valley Animal Centre, Exeter, of the new PM, Boris Johnson.

They are hoping to trace the bird’s owners so he can be reunited with them.

Megan added: “Boris is such a friendly little bird and we’d love to reunite him with his owners who must be worried sick about him. If anyone recognises him or believe he may be theirs then please get in touch with our Little Valley Animal Centre or call our appeal line on 0300 123 8018.”

The charity is urging all pet owners to ensure their animals are microchipped or have suitable identification, such as leg rings, and are registered to a database so they can be quickly reunited with their owners if they go missing.

Canary 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.