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Zoo keepers hand rear joey
Unexpected arrival for Germany zoo

The Serengeti-Park in Hodenhagen, Germany, has had an unexpected new arrival requiring special care and attention by the zoo’s keepers.

Tiny ‘Sabrina’ was discovered lying in the grass in the kangaroo enclosure at the zoo. Keepers were unaware her mother ‘Urmel’ had even been pregnant.

It is believed the appearance of Sabrina came just a few days after Urmel attempted to escape from her enclosure. The keepers have put the tiny joey’s premature appearance down to the stress caused by her escape attempt which triggered her to abandon her baby out of the pouch.

It is thought that she emerged from her mother’s pouch three months early therefore she requires constant care, ensuring she is kept warm by keeping her close to the body or wrapped in a blanket. The cute 9.8inch tall critter, who weighs just half a pound, is also being fed with special milk five times a 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.