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What if pets had superpowers?

Survey reveals owners wish pets could chat to them

A recent survey conducted by the People's Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) has found that a third of owners wish their pet could talk.

The survey, conducted on the charity's social media sites, asked UK owners what superpower they wish their pet had.

While the majority would like their pet to be able to chat with them about their day, one in eight owners wanted their pet to have the power to live forever with eternal health.

The third most popular answer was far more practical, with about one in 10 owners wishing their pet could pick up their own mess or clean out their litter tray.

Other answers included the power of bravery for an anxious rescue dog and the power to escape abuse and mistreatment.

Elaine Pendlebury, senior veterinary surgeon for the PDSA, said: "These answers clearly show how important pets are to people.

"While we don't have a magic wand to grant eternal health, there are plenty of simple things owners can do to help improve their pets' lives. A great place to start is by learning about the five animal welfare needs designed to keep pets healthy and happy."

Click here to find out more.

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Birmingham Dogs Home makes urgent appeal

News Story 1
 Birmingham Dogs Home has issued an urgent winter appeal as it faces more challenges over the Christmas period.

The rescue centre has seen a dramatic increase in dogs coming into its care, and is currently caring for over 200 dogs. With rising costs and dropping temperatures, the charity is calling for urgent support.

It costs the charity £6,000 per day to continue its work.

Fi Harrison, head of fundraising and communications, said: "It's heart-breaking for our team to see the conditions some dogs arrive in. We really are their last chance and hope of survival."

More information about the appeal can be found here

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Avian flu confirmed at premises in Cornwall

A case of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been detected in commercial poultry at a premises near Rosudgeon, Cornwall.

All poultry on the infected site will be humanely culled, and a 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone have been put in place. Poultry and other captive birds in the 3km protection zone must be housed.

The case is the second avian flu case confirmed in commercial poultry this month. The H5N5 strain was detected in a premises near Hornsea, East Riding of Yorkshire, in early November. Before then, the disease had not been confirmed in captive birds in England since February.

The UK chief veterinary officer has urged bird keepers to remain alert and practise robust biosecurity.

A map of the disease control zones can be found here.