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Blind dog guided around by cat
Unlikely best friends are pawfect companions

Before stray cat Pwditat was allowed into his home, eight-year-old Terfel would mostly spend his days curled up in his dog basket. His vision deteriorated after being diagnosed with cataracts, and is now only able to tell light from dark.

However, Terfel's situation changed when his owner, Judy Godfrey-Brown, decided to let a stray cat, which she'd seen lingering outside, into her home.

"Pwditat immediately seemed to know that Terfel is blind," said Ms Godfrey-Brown. "I've never seen anything like it."

She explained how, before Pwditat's arrival, Terfel would bump into things around the house, but now he has his very own guide cat. When they first met, Pwditat led Terfel straight out of his basket and into the garden and she has been helping him find his way around ever since.

"It's a great help when Pwditat's around to show him about," added Ms Godfrey-Brown, who said Pwditat uses her paws to help guide him.

The pair have since become best of friends and now even sleep together.

"She's very, very affectionate around Terfel and Terfel's obviously enjoying the companionship of Pwditat too. Lots of dogs and cats actually do get on well together, but these get on particularly well."

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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.