In this special episode, Julian Norton leaves Herriot Country for the Scottish Highlands, visiting the practice where he began his veterinary career in Thurso. It's not long before he is reminded just how tough a place it is to be a vet, because he's not just there for a catchup with his old mentor - he has to get his hands dirty and assist with a cow who has prolapsed, as well as an extremely challenging lambing. Back in Thirsk, Jean Green is worried about one of her cats who is passing blood.

Peter Wright teams up with Dame Judi Dench to travel to The Flicka Foundation Donkey Sanctuary in Cornwall, where Dame Judi became a patron after visiting in 2022 and falling in love with the donkeys. She's joined by her daughter Finty Williams. Peter then travels the country and meets the unsung heroes of the donkey welfare world, from County Durham to Cornwall.