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Birdsong is the Best Wake Up Call
A recent study has shown that birdsong is the most popular alarm tone after the traditional beep. 

More than double the amount of people chose birdsong to wake up to than any of the other 365 sounds you could choose from. Church bells, balloon squeak, WWI siren and chimes also made the top five alarm tones while violin screech and kettle whistle were among the least selected sounds.

The RSPB’s Bryan Bland says: "We are not surprised that birdsong has topped the poll of most popular alarm tones, we love our garden birds in the UK and having it as a wake up call is a great way of bringing the outside in. Songs of familiar birds from your garden are extremely relaxing and a gentle, cheerful and positive way to ease into the day."

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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.