Animals

Scientists studied effects of CBD on dogs - and discovered something astonishing...
We love it when our canine companions are calm

Royal corgis and the late Queen: 8 beloved images of Queen Elizabeth II and her cherished corgis – including hilarious footage of them with James Bond...
The late Queen adored all animals, especially dogs, and one short-legged breed stole her heart.

'21-dog salute' takes place outside Windsor Castle. Here's what's going on
The photoshoot was commissioned by the UK's most historic dog organisation to celebrate its most significant changes yet

“Unbelievable”: huge animal longer than bus seen leaping from Irish waters
No one knows exactly why these enormous sea creatures breach.

Can you still get fleas in winter? The truth about flea infestation will shock you
What's new?

Could the European wildcat return to south-west England? Experts say the area's ready...
A reintroduction to South West England could help save the UK's most critically endangered mammal

With just 300 left in the world, is this the rarest horse on the planet?
Once the lifeblood of Scotland’s island communities, this rare pony now faces a fight for its future

Is it ever okay to walk your cat like a dog on a lead? We ask an expert for their advice...
There is a growing trend for owners to take their cat for a walk, but is it a good idea?

“Avoidable” pain, fear and significant distress – pig slaughter methods must change, say experts
Around 90% of UK pigs are stunned using CO2 before slaughter – a method that causes the animals “avoidable” pain, fear and significant distress. Now, experts are calling for a ban, but what are the alternatives? James Fair reports

How real was 'War Horse'? Discover the harrowing story and the true horrors of horses on the front line of WWI
The charity The Brooke brings to life the horrors horses faced during the First World War
Farm animals

It's big, docile – and known as the Cotswold Lion
Countryfile presenter Adam Henson explains why the docile Cotswold is a favourite among the rare breeds on his Gloucestershire farm.

“It makes them look like a living breathing hat stand.” Meet the bizarre farm animal that looks more deer than sheep and doesn’t need shearing
This rare breed is native to the Isle of Man and is now considered 'at risk'. Here's why we need to show them some love, says Adam Henson

It's carried by midges and can lead to difficulty breathing and abortion in pregnant animals: The noticeable disease farmers dread
Bluetongue is a disease caused by infection with bluetongue virus. Chief Veterinary Officer for Wales Richard Irvine offers expert advice on how to spot signs of bluetongue, which animals it affects and how to report it.
Horses

Watch dramatic footage of wild ponies being rounded up by riders on a brutal, rugged English moorland
We joined the action as the historic Anchor herd was brought down from the moor for their annual health check

10 greatest horses of all time, from Red Rum to 'the horse the Germans couldn’t kill'
10 horses that go down in the equestrian history books

Why do we shoot horses if they break a leg?
Pets

We've found the ultimate gift for your dog this Christmas...

How do I take my cat to the vet without stress? Top tips for vet trips without the drama – or the scratches...
Top tips for a stress-free visit to the vet with your cat

Should you really get a puppy? 10 things to consider before you take the plunge...
There are few things more exciting in life than getting a puppy. But offering a dog a lifetime home is a huge responsibility, says veterinary nurse Lucy Wright. Here, she explains what you should consider before getting a puppy.
poultry

Mike the Headless Chicken: the real-life chicken that lived for 18 months without a head
After a failed decapitation in 1945, a chicken in Colorado stunned the world by surviving for 18 months without a head

Meet the bizarre blue-egg laying chicken taking over British backyards

Bird flu: what is it, which populations are affected and what are the long-term impacts?
As bird flu hits the headlines again, we take a look at what it is, the long-term impacts and what to do if you find an infected bird