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Asiatic Black Bears to be returned to the wild
Image - Todd Pierson/Shutterstock
Seven bears previously kept as pets

An official from the Wildlife Rescue Centre of Cat Tien National Park in southern Vietnam has confirmed that seven Asiatic Black Bears will be taken into their care prior to being returned to the wild. The animals, which weigh approximately 300kg and are between eight and nine years old, were kept as pets by a local entrepreneur in small cages for seven years.

The Asiatic Black Bear is also known as the 'Moon bear' due to a yellow crescent shape mark on its chest. The International Union for Conservation of Nature classifies them as 'Vulnerable' and they are on the IUCN's Red List due to the threat from loss of habitat, illegal killing and the trade in bear parts.

Nguyen Van Cuong, an official of the Wildlife Rescue Centre, was not able to confirm how long the bears would be in the Centre's care before they could be released. "It will take us lots of time and effort to prepare them for the wild as they have got used to an environment with human beings around." explained Mr Van Cuong. 

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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.  

Click here for more...
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.