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Views sought on first-time horse ownership
Redwings are keen to learn more about people's experiences of owning a horse or pony for the first time.
Redwings charity launches survey to learn why, when and how individuals take the plunge.

Horse owners past and present are being urged to take part in a survey gathering experiences of taking on a horse or pony for the first time.

Becoming a first-time horse or pony owner is a landmark occasion, and Redwings Horse Sanctuary are keen to learn why, when and how individuals make the switch from riding lessons or helping out with friends’ horses to shouldering the responsibility of their own.

Launched on World Mental health Day (10 October), the survey also considers the considerable impact horses can have on a person's physical and mental health.

Explaining the project, Andie McPherson, Redwings’ campaigns manager, said: “We have a lot to learn about the thought processes and preparations involved when someone takes on their first horse. 
 
 “We know that horses can have a hugely positive impact in people’s lives, but there’s a concern that not getting the right horse for you, or not having support as a new owner, could increase risks to the wellbeing of both horse and human.
 
 “We’re keen to find out more so we can help support people at this exciting, but sometimes daunting, stage of their equestrian journey.”

The questionnaire, entitled ‘My First Horse’, will remain open until 18 November. Participants who complete the survey can also choose to enter a grand prize draw to win a bundle of equine goodies. 

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Birmingham Dogs Home makes urgent appeal

News Story 1
 Birmingham Dogs Home has issued an urgent winter appeal as it faces more challenges over the Christmas period.

The rescue centre has seen a dramatic increase in dogs coming into its care, and is currently caring for over 200 dogs. With rising costs and dropping temperatures, the charity is calling for urgent support.

It costs the charity £6,000 per day to continue its work.

Fi Harrison, head of fundraising and communications, said: "It's heart-breaking for our team to see the conditions some dogs arrive in. We really are their last chance and hope of survival."

More information about the appeal can be found here. 

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News Shorts
Avian flu confirmed at premises in Cornwall

A case of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been detected in commercial poultry at a premises near Rosudgeon, Cornwall.

All poultry on the infected site will be humanely culled, and a 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone have been put in place. Poultry and other captive birds in the 3km protection zone must be housed.

The case is the second avian flu case confirmed in commercial poultry this month. The H5N5 strain was detected in a premises near Hornsea, East Riding of Yorkshire, in early November. Before then, the disease had not been confirmed in captive birds in England since February.

The UK chief veterinary officer has urged bird keepers to remain alert and practise robust biosecurity.

A map of the disease control zones can be found here.