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Unique Poo Identification Database
Poo from the capybara species is analysed as part of a project to help farmers manage their land sustainably.
Researchers funded by the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS), the charity that owns Edinburgh Zoo and the Highland Wildlife Park, are creating a unique poo identification database, designed to help Brazilian farmers manage their land in a more sustainable and efficient way.

By evaluating the botanical composition of faeces from wild and domestic herbivores, researchers are able to identify the preferred plant grazing materials, foraging strategies and nutritional requirements of the animals. This information is used to recommend and help landowners adopt sound land management strategies that will benefit both cattle and wildlife as well as improve their profitability. The ultimate aim of the project is to lessen the impact of intensive cattle grazing on the pristine Pantanal region in Brazil.

The Pantanal is regularly flooded and is characterized by an astonishing diversity of wildlife with thousands of fascinating species present, many of which are endangered.
Speaking on a brief visit to Edinburgh to share the latest findings with his colleagues, Dr Arnaud Desbiez, Researcher for RZSS’s Pantanal Conservation Initiative based in Brazil, said: “The Pantanal region is a unique ecosystem with areas of forest, wetland and savannah and is recognised by several international conservation protection designations. Ninety-five percent of the area is owned by private landowners and we must work with them in order to safeguard this amazing place. Until recently, it was a pristine environment benefiting from large scale ranches, low human density and little active management.  But now as intensive farming practices overtake traditional methods, this ecosystem is increasingly threatened. The Pantanal Conservation Initiative Project funded by RZSS, a critical part of which is analyzing and identifying plants deposited within faecal matter, has helped us to provide practical tools to farmers to choose better ways to manage and use the land.”

RZSS researcher, Dr Arnaud Desbiez, often goes on horseback to collect samples during the rainy season.
As the world's largest wetland of any kind, the Pantanal is regularly flooded and is characterized by an astonishing diversity of wildlife with thousands of fascinating species present, many of which are endangered. Over 200 plant species have now been identified, photographed and characterised as part of this research.

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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.