Badger cull timing in question
DEFRA's badger culls may be postponed due to legal challenges, weather problems and the recent political changes.
The culls were due to take place in the early autumn, once the London Olympics were over, however DEFRA is facing a number of possible delays.
A number of legal challenges have arisen regarding the policy which are yet to be decided.
The Badger Trust have appealed against the High Court's decision to allow the policy, and a formal complaint has been submitted to the Council of the Bern Convention by Humane Society International/UK, despite DEFRAs assurance that they will comply with convention.
There has also been added pressure from numerous high-profile celebrities, conservationists and wildlife campaigners.
A new DEFRA ministerial team may further delay plans and National Farmer's Union president, Peter Kendall, believes that the poor weather and subsequent late farming season has also affected preparations.
Mr Kendall said: "Although farmers will be devastated if [the cull] is delayed, getting it right is essential - rushing it and getting it wrong could undermine it forever."
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
