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Sheep-herding rabbit video goes viral
Champis in action
Video becomes YouTube sensation

A video of a rabbit rounding up and directing a flock of sheep on a Swedish farm in the village of Ornskoldsvik has gone viral after being posted on YouTube.

The five-minute video shows Champis the grey rabbit repeatedly taking on a group of six sheep many times its size and consistently getting them to move as a flock. One ewe that attempts to leave the flock is even intimidated into joining it once more.

The maker of the video, who also operates a blog on farming, heard anecdotal evidence about the rabbit's unconventional talents and went to the farm to investigate in person. Capturing Champis in action on film was a logical progression.

At time of writing, the video had three quarters of a million hits on YouTube and even more on other sites. It can be seen at http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=qeuL5IGimCQ#!

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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.