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Music improves animal welfare
RSPCA Freedom Food reveals survey results

It has been revealed that 77% of British farmers play music, radio, sing or chat to their animals. The survey published by RSPCA Freedom Food shows the majority of farmers believe music and social stimulation makes their animals more relaxed, calm and content.

Results of the survey, published on 18th June to mark the start of Farm Animal Week, revealed that nearly half (44%) of farmers play music or the radio to their animals. It was also found that 63% of all farmers and 75% of dairy farmers admit to talking to their livestock.

The survey follows research by Writtle College, based in Essex, which indicated that playing a radio tuned into pop music or a chat station can have a positive effect on sow and piglet behaviour, with increased suckling and causing piglets to be more playful.

As part of a new welfare initiative, the RSPCA is looking at ways we can better understand and listen to what animals have to say and help further to improve farm animals’ lives.

Marc Cooper, RSPCA farm animal scientist, commented: "This is about going back to basics and doing what good stock-keepers do best – looking at and listening to their animals to measure how well and happy they are.”

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FIVP announces third series of Practice Matters

News Story 1
 The Federation of Independent Veterinary practices (FIVP) has announced a third season of its podcast, Practice Matters.

Hosted by Ian Wolstenholme, series three will focus on the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) investigation, including a discussion about some of the expected impacts on independent veterinary colleagues.

Episode one launches on 13th January with guests Drs David Reader and Scott Summers, who will draw on their research into the CMA investigation and provide insights into themes such as transparency, pricing and consumer trust.

Ian Wolstenholme said: "In its third series, we will try and hone in on what the changes will mean in reality for independent practices with advice and guidance on implementation and delivery, drawing on the experience of our own team and other experts in the profession. Hope you can join us soon!" 

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News Shorts
Survey seeks ruminant sector views on antimicrobial stewardship

A new survey is seeking views of people working in the UK ruminant sector on how to tackle the challenge of demonstrating responsible antibiotic stewardship.

Forming part of a wider, collaborative initiative, the results will help identify the types of data available so that challenges with data collection can be better understood and addressed.

Anyone working in the UK farming sector, including vets and farmers,is encouraged to complete the survey, which is available at app.onlinesurveys.jisc.ac.uk