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Scottish SPCA appeals for help with 'hungry hoglets'
The charity is currently caring for 80 to 90 hoglets.

The charity is asking for donations to help feed the baby hedgehogs in its care. 

The Scottish SPCA is appealing for pet food donations to help feed the hungry hoglets currently in its care.

The charity is currently caring for between 80 to 90 hoglets, and are requesting donations of Royal Canin Starter Mousse, which contains vital nutrition for the hoglets during rehabilitation. 

Scottish SPCA assistant manager April Sorley commented: “Generally hedgehogs produce young twice a year but we are seeing this go on longer due to the changes in weather. 

“Many of these little hoglets need to be hand-reared so will need to be fed every three to four hours.

“Most of the hoglets will stay with us for around two months until they have grown and gained weight. Then they should be ready to be returned to the wild where they belong.”

She also commented on how the public can help hoglets in the wild, saying: “At this time of year we are urging people to take extra care when tidying up their gardens. Many hedgehogs come to us injured by garden equipment or a nest of hoglets can be uncovered.

“If anyone does accidentally injure a hedgehog, or find a hoglet, then they should contact our animal helpline on 03000 999 999 for advice.”

The charity is asking for donations to be handed in to its centre located at Fishcross, FK10 3AN. However, online donations are also gratefully received, and can be done via the Scottish SPCA's Amazon wishlist, or any other retailer offering delivery. 

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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.