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Goat-riding monkey raids farm
The thieves at work.
Nearby circus blamed for farm thefts.

A Chinese farmer has claimed that a monkey riding a goat is persistently sneaking onto his land and stealing his vegetables.

Ye Shu of Donguan, Guangdong Province has blamed animals from a nearby circus for the thefts. Mr Ye claims that the pair are sneaking onto his land on a daily basis, eating some of his vegetables and damaging many others.

According to his testimony, the monkey stands on the goat's back to gain a better vantage point from which to check the coast is clear before they start the day's raid.

"This has been going on for two weeks since the acrobatic troupe was first stationed here," he complained. "If the monkey sees that nobody is working in the field, he rides in on the goat and they start eating and causing trouble."

A spokesman for the circus conceded that the animals were not supervised after their part of the circuses' performance had concluded.

"We have compensated Ye Shu, and we are sorry for our neglect," said Wu Jun, the troupe leader. Mr Wu has announced that the circus will be recruiting animal keeps to prevent a repeat of the thefts.

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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.