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Barn owl family returns to screens

Live footage of Heligan's owls to air on BBC

For the second time, live footage of the barn owl family at the Lost Gardens of Heligan, Cornwall, will air on BBC Springwatch.

Three eggs were laid and hatched successfully between June 7 and 12, and both parent owls have been providing a steady flow of treats for their young chicks.

When footage previously aired in 2007, one of the parent owls was lost, leading to a lack of food which caused the eldest chick to eat two of his younger siblings.

Jim Briggs, Heligan wildlife and estate manager explained how the land is managed sensitively to create the perfect habitat and conditions for barn owls, offering hope for this year's brood.

"Our permanent pasture land is not intensively grazed and around hay meadows margins are left uncut, to ensure habitat for voles and mice; the barn owls' primary food source.

"Our wildlife cameras give us an intimate view of the lives of the creatures that we share the gardens and estate with and we are often lucky to witness behaviour not normally seen."

The barn owl chicks will be live on camera throughout the summer, and are expected to fledge in August.

Image credit: Lost Gardens of Heligan/Onshore Media

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Greyhound Board announces change to vaccination guidance

News Story 1
 The Greyhound Board of Great Britain has published new vaccination guidance, with all greyhounds registered from 1 January, 2027 required to have the L4 leptospirosis vaccination, rather than L2.

The change comes in response to the reduced availability of the 'L2' Leptospirosis vaccine across the UK, and aims to support best biosecurity practice across the racing greyhound population.

GBGB veterinary director Simon Gower, said "While rare, Leptospirosis is a serious infectious disease that can affect both dogs and humans, so it is vital that we offer our greyhounds the broadest possible protection.  

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News Shorts
Free webinar explores congenital heart disease in dogs

A free webinar is to provide veterinary professionals, dog breeders and pet owners an new insights into congenital heart disease.

Chris Linney, a cardiology specialist and Veterinary Cardiovascular Society (VSC) member, will present the webinar from 7.00pm to 8.30pm on Wednesday, 12 November.

Dr Linney will explore the types, causes and clinical presentation of congenital heart conditions. This will include diagnostic approaches, treatment pathways and emerging research opportunities.

The session is the third to be organised by The Kennel Club, with the VCS, following an introductory webinar and a talk on acquired heart disease. Dr Linney's webinar consists of a one-hour presentation, followed by a 30-minute question and answer session.

Dr Linney said: "This webinar will be an opportunity to deepen understanding - not just of the diseases themselves, but of how breeders, vets and owners can work together to support affected dogs and improve outcomes for future generations."

Click here to register for the webinar.