Animals
“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
Why are purple poppies worn?
All you need to know about the purple poppy, including why and when it's worn
This pocket-sized speaker might be your new favourite outdoor companion
We review the Tribit StormBox Micro 2 Portable Speaker to see how it stands up to the competition
Animal war heroes: 10 incredibly brave creatures that served alongside alongside us in times of war and conflict
Discover Britain’s non-human war heroes
What's new?
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.
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.
How to keep your pets safe and calm this Bonfire Night
Bonfire Night and noisy and bright fireworks displays can be a frightening time for your pets and other animals. Here’s our essential guide on how to keep your pets calm and happy during Bonfire Night.
Just what are XL bully cats and why are experts warning against this dangerous feline trend of mutant breeding?
XL bully cats are the latest internet trend, but they present a host of dangerous health issues, central veterinary officer for Cats Protection Sarah Elliott explains
It's not know what causes this rare, deadly, flesh-eating dog disease that leads to severe depression, loss of appetite, and vomiting. Here's what to know
There have been 292 confirmed cases of Alabama Rot disease in the UK, with 2 confirmed in 2023. Find out what Alabama dog rot is, the signs and symptoms, and how to protect your dog, in our expert guide.
Farm animals
“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.
160 woolly pigs were released on a Scottish farm – and they’re disrupting the landscape in a very significant way
Pigs are environmental engineers, not architects of destruction, says BBC Countryfile's Adam Henson
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
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
Stunning border collie photos reveal beauty and intelligence of these working dogs
8 gorgeous images of border collies – leaping, swimming and herding.
Is your cat drinking more water? Veterinary surgeon explains why this could be a red flag and something to worry about
Veterinary surgeon Graham Lewis explains why your cat could be drinking more water – and when to seek treatment
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