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Reformed 'ASBO cat' seeks loving home
PC Polly
PC Polly is looking for a fresh start. 
Former kitty criminal can't wait to start a new life on the outside

Cats Protection's adoption centre in Belfast is in search of new home for a cat with a history of feline felony.

Affectionately named 'PC Polly' by staff at the centre, the attractive dark tortoiseshell was brought into Cats Protection for rehabilitation after being "arrested" by local police in Armagh for disorderly conduct in March 2013.

PC Polly first made herself known by chasing a member of the public up and down the road, meowing incessantly and generally making a quite a scene. When they tried to shoo her away, PC Polly lashed out and scratched them - probably because she wanted them to know how hungry she was.

Knowing that they were in desperate need of help, the member of the public approached a local policewoman who was luckily a cat lover.  The policewoman took PC Polly to a veterinary clinic, who in turn contacted Cats Protection.

PC Polly was taken in by Gillian who volunteers for Cats Protection's Armagh branch. Despite her offence, the naughty tortie quickly took to Gillian and in turn, Gillian developed a real fondness to her.

Gillian said: “She was feisty when she first came in, but we let her come to us for affection on her terms, and we soon grew to love her strong character. She became much calmer and more loving after some TLC in the form of warmth and food.”

PC Polly was then transferred to the Cats Protection's Belfast adoption centre, where staff are now hoping that she will find her forever home.

“She is a stunning looking girl and she takes medication easily for a heart problem she has,” said adoption centre manager Bel Livingstone. “She is young – only about 2 years old and we think she will make a great pet for the right people. However, her “shady” past means she wouldn’t suit a young family. No one can be sure what triggered her aggressive behaviour – perhaps it was as simple as someone stepping on her tail!”
 
PC Polly has been in custody for 300 days now and her rehabilitation for a life on the outside is complete.
 
Bel added: “We are hoping that a special person or people will come forward and give PC Polly the second chance she deserves. We think even a cat with an ASBO deserves a fresh start!”
 

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Animal Medicines Amnesty returns this November

News Story 1
 Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty.

Organised by the Responsible Use of Medicines Alliance Companion Animal and Equine (RUMA CA&E), the initative is supported by a range of cross-sector organisations.

Practices are encouraged to use the campaign to engage the whole practice team and raise awareness of the safe disposal of medicines with clients. Learn how your practice can get involved at rumacae.org.uk 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
APHA launches free virtual work experience programme

The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), in collaboration with Springpod, has launched a free virtual work experience programme, giving young people across the UK the chance to explore careers dedicated to protecting animal and plant health.

The on-demand programme offers a unique insight into career opportunities within APHA, showcasing how students can contribute to tackling some of the UK's most critical biosecurity and environmental challenges.

Designed for students aged 13 and over, the course includes more than 10 hours of engaging content featuring real-life industry insights, scenario-based challenges, and practical guidance on applying for jobs. To register for the course, visit the APHA website.