RVC collaboration creates first 3D cat heart model
The Royal Veterinary College (RVC) has collaborated with Spain's Pompeu Fabra University (UPF) to generate 3D reconstructions of the hearts of different animals.
Using advanced computational techniques, the reconstructions can simulate cats' blood flows, therefore reducing experimentation on animals.
The models will mainly focus on reconstructing the animals' left atrium. This is because it is the part of the heart where thrombi (or blood clots) which cause heart attacks occur.
It is hoped that studying these reconstructions, and comparing them to existing models of the human heart, will support useful conclusions that could prevent thrombi in humans and animals. Future projects will see researchers create 3D models of the hearts of dogs, pigs and sheep.
Researchers began the project by studying cats' hearts, as the heart tissue has characteristics revealing the relationship between heart morphology and thrombi.
When investigating the human heart, studies will usually focus on clots and atrial fibrillation. Alterations of movements of the heart muscle can cause blood to accumulate in the left atrium of the heart, increasing the risk of a thrombus.
However, there are still unknown factors regarding the relationship between the human heart and clotting.
Since cats do not suffer arrhythmias, clots occur solely due to heart morphology and blood flow. This will allow researchers to study the links between thrombi and heart morphology without the interference of arrhythmias.
To create the 3D model, researchers examined the left atrium morphology and haemodynamics of 24 cats. This included eight healthy cats and 16 with different cardiac pathologies.
Using medical images from the cats' veterinary clinics, researchers implemented advanced computational techniques to reconstruct the left atria.
The study has already offered new insights linking the morphological features of cats' hearts to different pathologies.
Cats with a larger left atrium and a larger left atrial appendage proved to be at an increased risk of clotting. The risk of thrombi was also increased when blood circulated more slowly or the left atrial appendage was curved – which forces blood to zigzag to circulate.
Researchers also note that that the left atrial appendage has trabeculae which, if numerous, could stop blood flow and lead to clots.
Since previous studies of the human left atrium have reached similar conclusions, researchers believe the 3D models prove beneficial for both feline and human health. However, more feline samples will be needed to understand heart behaviour better.
Future projects will also see the team examine the left atrium of dogs, pigs and sheep as they complete their cross-sectional study.
The full study can be found in the journal Scientific Reports.
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RTAs leading cause of death in cats, study finds
A new study has revealed road traffic accidents (RTAs) to be the leading cause of death among UK cats aged up to eight years old.
The 'Bristol Cats' study, a collaboration between the University of Bristol Veterinary School and Cats Protection, is believed to be the first study into feline mortality to include cats without veterinary surgeons or insurance.
Researchers gathered data from a series of questionnaires, designed to develop a longitudinal study of feline health, welfare and behaviour. They also examined medical records from the cat's first eight years of life, and collected data from the owners themselves.
Where cats died during the study, their cause of death was categorised into either organ-specific issue, disease or event. This was then analysed by age and lifestage.
Of the 2,444 cats recruited into the study, 362 died before reaching nine years old.
The most common cause of death in cats aged up to eight years old was an RTA, which had occurred in 45.6 per cent of cases. RTAs were also the leading cause in kittens (aged under one year) and young adult cats (1-6 years old).
Among 29 kittens which died during the study, 61.2 per cent died as a result of an RTA. This was followed by feline infectious peritonitis (11.9 per cent) and other trauma (7.5 per cent).
RTAs were also the most common cause of death in young adult cats, occurring in 49.6 per cent of cases. Of the deceased young cats, 6.5 per cent died of kidney disease, 6.5 per cent died of heart disease and 14.4 per cent died of a non-specified reason.
Aimee Taylor, corresponding author from Bristol Vet School, said: “Our study is the first to include deaths that weren't recorded in medical records or insurance in pet cats up to 8 years old. We found age increases the chance of death, but there is a high mortality risk for cats up to two-years-old, too.
“However, as our research only looked into pet cats up to eight-years-old, disease related causes of death may well overtake RTAs in older cats.”
Dr Emily Blackwell, principal investigator at Bristol Cats, said: “Findings from the study could be used to raise awareness amongst owners of young adult cats, as well as develop better vet care strategies to improve the length and quality of life for the UK’s pet cats.”
The full study has been published in the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery.
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Small-scale neutering has short-term benefits, study finds
A review of a one-off stray neutering programme in India has revealed short-term benefits to localised neutering campaigns.
The neutering programme involved localised campaigns across five areas in Goa, in which free-roaming female dogs were captured, sterilised and returned.
The campaigns saw more than half of all female dogs neutered across the five locations, with up to two-thirds of female dogs neutered at each site.
Researchers from the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, in collaboration with Worldwide Veterinary Service, monitored the impacts of each of these campaigns. The project saw them monitor free-roaming dog populations before and after sterilisation programmes across five paired sites in Goa.
These findings were then compared to areas without sterilisation programmes.
The study saw initial improvements to the welfare of the free-roaming dogs. Researchers recorded a reduced number of puppies and lactating females, fewer deaths among young dogs and reduced barking.
However, the project did not necessarily reduce dog numbers in the localised areas, with no significant change reported in dog numbers in the following two years.
The research team has suggested that a more systematic, intensive and repetitive approach could be more effective in managing dog populations. Their findings support recommendations from the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), which calls for responsible dog ownership, controlled breeding and waste management.
Researchers say these actions are particularly important in countries like India, where rabies and other diseases pose a risk to human and animal health.
Helen Fielding, lead author of the study, said: “One-off intensive sterilisation campaigns did not lead to significant changes in adult dog counts during the two year follow up period, indicating that current sterilisation practices may need to be reviewed and supplemented by additional strategies to counteract effects of migration and population dynamics.
“Surgical sterilisation is an appropriate tool for limiting birth rates among free-roaming dogs, however, it is unlikely to yield substantial reductions in overall population size when used in isolation in open populations.”
The full study can be found in the journal Scientific Reports.
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CMA publishes suggested 'remedies' for vet sector
The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has released its latest working paper, setting out a series of suggested 'remedies' for issues in the veterinary sector.
The regulator says that its remedies, which include price caps and transparency requirements, could lead to a 'shift' in the commercial relationship between practices and their clients.
Among the recommendations made by the regulator is a price cap on medications and prescription fees. The CMA suggests that a cap on prescription fees will ensure pet owners are not discouraged from requesting prescriptions, as well as preventing practices from increasing fees if prescriptions are mandated.
Dispensing practices may have to use a price comparison site, with clients directed to a page comparing medication prices across different dispensaries when purchasing their pet's medication.
The regulator is also considering a standardised price list for practices and referral providers. Practices could be asked to publish the prices at which they offer a specific list of procedures and treatments, which the CMA suggests should be easy to locate online. The CMA states that, by ensuring all practices provide a comprehensive and accessible price lists, it will support pet owners to make fair judgements.
Other recommendations suggested by the CMA include clear information about ownership and caps on price ups of cremations. It also addresses concerns about the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966, which is currently being investigated by Defra.
The CMA says it is yet to conclude that these remedies are needed, however it has opened a consultation into its recommendations that will close at 5pm on 27 May.
In its preliminary response, the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) commended the CMA for acknowledging the dedication of veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses. It has also recognised the CMA's views for statutory regulatory reform, which it says is broadly aligned with its own recommendations.
The British Veterinary Association (BVA), however, has raised concern for many of the remedies, including the standardised price lists, requirements for generic prescribing and the price concerns for cremation services.
Elizabeth Mullineaux, BVA president, said: “We will look closely at the detail of these in the coming weeks and formally respond to the CMA.
“It’s vital that any measures the CMA presses forward with do not risk undermining the ability of veterinary professionals to do their job or compromise the sustainability of the sector, which could have negative consequences for the welfare of the animals in our care.”
The full report can be read here.
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R Eddie Clutton
Clinical director
Siuna A Reid
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Stephenie Malone
Specialist employment solicitor
Karen Wild
Clinical animal behaviourist
Claire Hodgson
Equine clinician
Kerry Doolin
Emergency and critical care clinician
Hilary Orpet
Senior lecturer and veterinary nurse
Clara Ashcroft
Marketing and communications writer and journalist
Jemma Fry
Veterinary physiotherapist and hydrotherapist
Stephanie Williams
Diagnostic radiographer
Norman Johnston
Dental and oral surgery specialist
Kieran Borgeat
Specialist in veterinary cardiology
Claire Hargrave
Animal behaviourist and lecturer
Emma Purnell
Veterinary nurse
John Hill
Bee enthusiast and experienced veterinary surgeon
John Matthews
Veterinary surgeon with a specific interest in goat care
Hayley Walters
Welfare and anaesthesia veterinary nurse
Helen Ballantyne
Human and veterinary nurse
Rob Tillyard
Specialising in veterinary practice management systems
Jane Ellison
Senior information scientist at the Veterinary Poisons Information Service
Alice Allbrook
James Yeates
Chief veterinary officer of the RSPCA
Joanne Webster
Head RVN, specialist in veterinary nurse training
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Chimpanzees drum distinct rhythms, study finds
A team of researchers has discovered that chimpanzees drum rhythmically, adding regular spacing between their drum hits.
The study saw cognitive scientists and evolutionary biologists examine the behaviours that eastern and western chimpanzees use to communicate with their group.
Drumming has been proven to be a common method of communication among chimpanzees. The primates produce low-frequency sounds by drumming on buttress roots, which grow above the soil.
A previous project revealed that chimpanzees each had their own unique drumming style, which they use to communicate where they are and what they are doing. The chimpanzees used percussive patterns to send information over long and short distances.
This latest project sought to discover how drumming styles changed between different chimpanzee communities, and whether they had a humanlike rhythm.
To explore this, the team worked with chimpanzees researchers to study 371 drumming bouts across 11 chimpanzee communities – including six populations and two subspecies.
The researchers analysed the drumming patterns of the chimpanzees, which revealed a distinct rhythm to the way they drummed. The timing of their hits also proved to be non-random and often evenly spaced.
The two subspecies, eastern chimpanzees and westerns chimpanzees, were also discovered to be exhibiting different drumming patterns.
While eastern chimpanzees alternated between shorter and longer time intervals between beats, western chimpanzees kept evenly spaced hits. Western chimpanzees also drummed with a faster tempo, integrating their drumming earlier in their pant-hoot vocalisations.
Catherine Hobaiter, a senior author of the study from University of St Andrews, said: “Making music is a fundamental part of what it means to be human — but we don’t know for how long we have been making music,
“Showing that chimpanzees share some of the fundamental properties of human musical rhythm in their drumming is a really exciting step in understanding when and how we evolved this skill.
“Our findings suggest that our ability to drum rhythmically may have existed long before we were human."
The full study can be found in the journal Current Biology.
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Strangles survey seeks views of horse owners
Respondents will be entered into a prize draw.
With Strangles Awareness Week just around the corner (5-11 May), vets are being encouraged to share a survey about the disease with their horse-owning clients.
The survey, which has been designed by Dechra, aims to raise awareness of strangles and promote best practices to prevent its transmission. It includes questions about horse owners’ experiences of strangles, together with preventative measures and vaccination.
Respondents to the survey will be entered into a prize draw to win two VIP tickets to Your Horse Live 2025. To access the survey, click here.
Vivienne Mackinnon elected BVA Scottish Branch President
The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has elected Vivienne Mackinnon as its new BVA Scottish Branch president.
The appointment was made during the BVA's Annual General Meeting, which took place at Holyrood on 30 April 2025. She succeeds Gareth Hateley, who is now senior vice president.
Dr Mackinnon has over 30 years of experience in veterinary care, encompassing both small animal and mixed practice. She has worked in practices in Scotland, England, New Zealand and Australia, before joining APHA to work in frontline disease control.
In her speech, Dr Mackinnon reflected on the changes in Scotland's veterinary industry and highlighted her commitment to veterinary education.
Dr Mackinnon said: “I look forward to working with colleagues across the veterinary professions to improve animal health and welfare in the country and support veterinary workplaces.”
Image © BVA
NOAH calls for UK-EU vet medicine agreement
The National Office of Animal Health (NOAH) has united with its EU counterpart, AnimalhealthEurope, to call for a veterinary medicines agreement between the UK and EU.
The groups warn that, since the UK's exit from the European Union, there has been no formal regulatory agreement on veterinary medicines.
They maintain that a veterinary agreement is vital not only for treating pets and livestock, but also to protect public health, ensure food security and support sustainable agriculture. Animal welfare in both the UK and the EU could be at risk.
A lack of regulatory co-operation is currently causing challenges which threaten product availability and innovation. While other regulatory agreements have diverged since Brexit, NOAH says that a lack of alignment in the veterinary medicines sector has caused unnecessary duplication, increased costs and risks to availability.
Political leaders are set to meet for the EU-UK Summit in London on 19 May 2025. NOAH and AnimalhealthEurope hope they will use the opportunity to agree on a dedicated veterinary medicines agreement.
The organisations suggest that the leaders could either agree on a standalone deal or include it as a specific chapter in a broader Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Agreement. NOAH and AnimalhealthEurope believe this will mean continued alignment across product authorisation, labelling, distribution and post-market surveillance.
Dawn Howard, chief executive of NOAH, said: “Veterinary medicines must not be sidelined as a technical detail—they are critical to the health of our animals, the safety of our food, and the growth of our economy.”
She added: “This moment is a great opportunity. The UK and the EU have the chance to show leadership in animal health and welfare, economic co-operation, and One Health. NOAH, together with AnimalhealthEurope, is ready to work with regulators and policymakers to secure this outcome.”
Roxane Feller, secretary general of AnimalhealthEurope, said: “Unlike politics, disease knows no borders. Guaranteed access to veterinary medicines is fundamental to safeguarding animal health and welfare, ensuring food security, and protecting public health under the One Health framework.
“AnimalhealthEurope, together with NOAH, has been calling for cooperation in the field of veterinary medicines since the publication of the Withdrawal Agreement and Political Declaration on the future relationship between the UK and the EU in 2018.”
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RUMA Agriculture launches vaccine availability survey
The Responsible use of Medicines in Agriculture (RUMA) Alliance has launched a new survey to gather insights into vaccine shortages in the livestock sector.
The survey, which closes Friday, 27 June at 5pm, invites veterinary professionals, farmers and SQPs to share their experiences with vaccine supplies.
RUMA Agriculture explains that a reliable vaccine supply is vital to tackle the ongoing threat that antimicrobial resistance poses to One Health. Without access to relevant vaccinations, the livestock industry could be forced to use antibiotics to manage preventable conditions.
However, numerous livestock sectors have frequently reported limited or no supply of key vaccinations over the past few years.
Vaccine production is a time-sensitive process, and is often subject to delays and variability. The supply chain can be vulnerable batch failures, too little supply being imported or developed and recalls.
There may also be increased demand during disease outbreaks and manufacturing challenges caused by external disruptions.
RUMA Agriculture says that, while vaccine shortage and disruption is a regular issue in the sector, it can not be resolved quickly. The group hopes that the insights it gathers through this survey will help it to work across the livestock industry to suggest medium and long term solutions to any shortages.
Alongside other industry stakeholders, RUMA Agriculture has attended meetings with the Veterinary Medicines Directorate and has committed to continuing collaborating on the issue.
Cat McLaughlin, RUMA Agriculture chair, said: “What we do know is that delays in vaccinations can lead to an increased risk of disease outbreaks, and this can be a source of much worry for animal owners, SQPs and veterinary practices who are working hard to maintain the high standards of animal welfare that the UK is known for.
“We have listened to the concerns of our members and that’s why we are launching this survey - the insights from which will enable RUMA Agriculture to work directly with affected sectors to explore what management strategies can be developed to help ensure everyone is as prepared as they can be to respond to supply issues when they do occur.”
Responses to the survey are anonymous, and RUMA Agriculture will publish headline findings as part of its work to address vaccine shortages.
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Animal Welfare Bill progresses past committee stage
The RSPCA is celebrating as the Animal Welfare (Import of Dogs, Cats and Ferrets) Bill progresses past the committee stage.
Its progress through Parliament brings it a step closer to becoming law, with RSPCA hopeful that it will reach the report stage before Parliament enters Summer Recess on 22 July.
The Bill was introduced to Parliament by Danny Chambers MP, who is also a trained veterinary surgeon. If successful, it could see specific restrictions to both commercial and non-commercial animal imports.
One significant aspect of the law will ban the import of 'mutilated' pets from abroad. Through this ban, the RSPCA hopes the Bill will close a loophole allowing people to import pets from abroad which have undergone procedures that are illegal in the UK.
This includes a ban on the import of dogs with cropped ears or docked tails and cats which have been declawed.
The RSPCA says that, since 2023, it has had 30,000 supporters join its campaign to stop ear cropping. The charity fears that cropped ears have increased in popularity through representation on social media.
The Bill also incorporates measures intended to tackle the illegal puppy and kitten smuggling trade, which threatens the welfare of young animals.
It hopes to increase the minimum age that puppies and kittens can be brought into the UK from the existing 15 weeks to six months. There is a proposed ban on pregnant dogs and cats being imported after 42 days of pregnancy.
The Bill would also limit how many animals can be imported in a single vehicle.
Harriet Main, public affairs manager at the RSPCA, said: “We know many animal lovers share our concern at the numbers of mutilated dogs and cats, and young and pregnant pets, being imported into the country.
“So we’re delighted that the Animal Welfare (Import of Dogs, Cats and Ferrets) Bill has passed through this stage and that we’re one step closer to living in a country with better protection for our animals.”
Danny Chambers MP said: “By taking advantage of policy loopholes, criminals have been able to traffic vulnerable animals into the UK. This gap in the system has caused the suffering of thousands of innocent animals.
“As a vet, I think it is time we close this loophole, stop it from being exploited by criminals, and put an end to this cruel trade once and for all.”
Image © Shutterstock
Bear family rescued from residential home
Aram, Nairi and their daughter, Lola, endured years of unimaginable suffering.
Three Syrian brown bears are receiving urgent veterinary care after being rescued by UK-based charity, International Animal Rescue (IAR).
Aram, Nairi and their daughter, Lola, endured years of unimaginable suffering at a residential home in Armenia before a public tip-off to the Foundation for the Preservation of Wildlife and Cultural Assets (FPWC) led to their discovery.
Male bear Aram had been held captive for 12 years and repeatedly bred with female Nairi, who was taken from the wild. Imprisoned in filthy cages and denied the most basic care, their younger daughter, Lola, was locked up with them, while other cubs had been taken and sold.
Following the tip-off, FPWC joined forces with International Animal Rescue to free the bears, in what they describe as their most “difficult rescue to date”. Despite a court order, the bears’ owner denied the team access and a prolonged standoff ensured.
With the help of the police, the team finally gained access and worked through the night to free the bears and transport them to safety. Vets at the FPWC’s wildlife rescue centre in Urtsadzor, which is supported by IAR, are keeping a close eye on the bears, and treating Aram for broken and infected teeth.
IAR president Alan Knight OBE, who was at the rescue, said: “These were some of the worst conditions I have ever seen. The stench, the filth, the sheer cruelty of locking these animals up in tiny cages and feeding them cola, it was absolutely horrific.”
An urgent appeal has been launched to help fund the ongoing cost of the bears and to complete a new sanctuary where Aram, Nairi, Lola and her previously rescued son, Noah, can live together safely.
Image (C) International Animal Rescue.
BVNA hopeful after 'nurse' title protected in law
The British Veterinary Nursing Association (BVNA) has welcomed new measures to protect the 'nurse' title in law.
The UK government's Department for Health and Social Care (DHSC) has confirmed that, as part of wider healthcare regulation reforms, it will become a criminal offence to misuse the 'nurse' title and mislead the public.
Under current legislation, much like in the veterinary nursing sector, only the title 'registered nurse' is protected in law. This has left over 8,000 people in 93 per cent of NHS trusts using the title 'nurse' without having registered qualifications.
The new legislation will ensure that only those registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) can legally use the 'nurse' title. Inappropriate use will be a criminal offence and subject to fines.
This legislative change is the result of campaigning from a number of nursing organisations, as well as MP Dawn Butler.
The BVNA has welcomed the new legislation, voicing its support for the government's acknowledgment of the associated risks to public health when medical titles are misused.
It is continuing to campaign for protection for the 'veterinary nurse' title, which the BVNA says has similar ramifications for animal health. BVNA believes that only those who are qualified and registered should be able to refer to themselves as a veterinary nurse.
The organisations says it will continue to work closely with Defra in the preliminary work towards veterinary legislation. Its involvement with the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has also ensured that new legislation has become one of its suggested 'remedies'.
BVNA president Lyndsay Hughes said: “At a time when BVNA is leading the campaign to protect the ‘veterinary nurse’ title in law, we are delighted by the news that title protection has been achieved for our human-centred nursing counterparts. Whether the patient is human or animal, nurses and veterinary nurses alike provide skilled, compassionate, professional and dedicated care to their patients.”
She added: “We are seizing every available opportunity to raise awareness of RVNs’ vital role within animal welfare and public health, and to campaign for rightful protection of the ‘veterinary nurse’ title. This news from the human healthcare sector demonstrates that title protection can be achieved – and BVNA will work tirelessly until it comes to fruition for veterinary nurses too.”
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AIPZ housing measures to be lifted
The chief veterinary officer (CVO) has confirmed that mandatory housing measures are to be lifted in Avian Influenza Prevention Zones (AIPZs) in the UK.
From Thursday, 15 May 2025, poultry and captive birds will no longer need to be housed and can be kept outside.
Defra advises that bird keepers prepare ranges and outside areas before releasing their birds, as they may still be contaminated. This includes disinfecting hard surfaces, fencing off ponds and reintroducing wild bird deterrents.
Bird keepers are warned that birds may take time to reacclimatise, and so should be gradually released over a period of days.
The government maintains that strict biosecurity is the best way to prevent the spread of avian influenza. It says that birdkeepers in AIPZ are still legally required to follow the highest biosecurity measures, such as thorough disinfecting clothes and equipment.
The housing measures will remain in place for bird keepers in a Protection Zone or a Captive Bird Monitoring (Controlled) Zone, where there may have been recent outbreaks of avian influenza. Bird gatherings also remain banned.
Defra says that the decision was made as a result of a risk assessment, supported by scientific evidence, which found that the risk of avian influenza levels in wild birds and poultry had reduced.
Christine Middlemiss, UK CVO, said: "Following a sustained period of reduced risk from avian influenza, we are now able to lift the mandatory housing measures in effect in various counties, which is testament to the hard work and vigilance of bird keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.
“While the lifting of mandatory housing measures will be welcomed by bird keepers, it is imperative that keepers continue to practice stringent biosecurity and that any suspicions of disease are reported to the Animal and Plant Health agency immediately."
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Vets to deliver ASF contingency planning workshops
Veterinary practices across England will be supporting pig producers in working with their vets to produce farm-level contingency plans for African Swine Fever (ASF).
The face-to-face training, which will run in conjunction with the National Pig Association, has been announced by AHDB to help ensure all levels of industry are prepared should an outbreak of ASF occur.
It will be delivered through a series of workshops covering the clinical signs of ASF, how it spreads and the knock-on effects to business and neighbouring farms. Participants will also work through contingency plans.
The AHDB hopes that having producers and vets working alongside each other will help to streamline the process should the worst happen.
It notes: 'The threat of ASF is real, and one that should not be ignored. It is a virus that affects pigs and wild boar, can result in high mortality rates and is already well established in parts of Europe. When it hits, it hits hard.
'Preparation is key to understanding and mitigating some of the consequences should you find yourself on an affected premises or inside a control zone following an outbreak of not just ASF but any notifiable disease, such as foot-and-mouth.
'It is why we are stepping up our efforts to get more producers to develop contingency plans in conjunction with their vets'.
Plans to roll out the training to vets across the country will be announced though a ‘through the trainer’ session at the upcoming Pig Veterinary Society (PVS) autumn meeting.
BSAVA president to brave charity wing walk
BSAVA president Julian Hoad is set to take to the skies in a daring charity wing walk for BSAVA PetSavers.
Julian, who will be donning a Cheshire cat onesie for the challenge, will secured to the top of a vintage biplane on Thursday, 29 May in Cirencester, Gloucestershire.
The bold adventure marks the end of Julian’s presidential year, and is all in the name of raising funds for BSAVA PetSaver’s groundbreaking research.
So far, the charity has invested over £2.7 million into diseases affecting companion animals, including cancer, heart conditions, gastrointestinal issues, neurological and joint disorders, and many more.
Reflecting on his challenge, Julian said: "Every day, vets face the heart-wrenching task of managing the distress and pain our pets suffer due to disease or poor health.
“With your support, we can ensure that they have access to the latest knowledge and resources needed to provide the best care possible.”
He added: “The need for advanced research is more pressing than ever and our pets deserve every chance at a healthy life. If dressing up as a cat and flying on the wing of a plane makes people take notice of the vital need for pet health research, then it will be worth it.”
Alison Selby, Fundraising Manager for BSAVA PetSavers said: “No one has ever been quite so daring in their fundraising efforts for us, so we are thrilled that Julian has decided to take this on to raise awareness and funds for BSAVA PetSavers.
“For every grant application that we fund, at least two or more are declined due to lack of funds. Fundraising events like this helps to land more funding in the hands of researchers who make a real difference in the veterinary community and directly impact the lives of countless pets and their families.”
At the time of writing, Julian has raised £524 of his £1,000 target. To donate to his challenge, visit his Just Giving page.
MMI grant recipients to present VN findings
The conference will explore mental wellbeing within higher education.
The recipients of the 2023 Mind Matters Initiative (MMI) Sarah Brown Mental Health Research Grant are to present their research at a conference in Sheffield this month.
Faye Didymus and Jackie Hargreaves, both of Leeds Beckett University, will reveal the findings of their study into mental health education and its integration into veterinary nursing diplomas.
The Mental Wellbeing in HE Conference, run by AdvanceHE, is due to take place in Sheffield on 14 May. It is set to explore approaches to mental wellbeing in higher education, with a focus on how strategies might enhance the wellbeing of both staff and students.
It will also investigate institutional responses to reasonable adjustments, crisis management and trauma-informed teaching practices.
In their session, Dr Didymus and Dr Hargreaves will explain their MMI-funded research into how these principles can be integrated into veterinary nurse training.
The first stage of their project involved a scoping review of existing mental health education in the curriculum. Existing curriculum documents from education establishments were reviewed, and further information was sought from tutors through an online survey.
The second stage saw them conduct a deep exploration of mental health education and experiences. Researchers had interviews with SVNs, VN tutors and qualified VNs before the data was triangulated and a thematic analysis conducted.
Their findings explored the experiences of interviewees during their education, as well as later in practice. Researchers assessed how these findings could inform future veterinary nursing curricula.
The data is now being used to generate recommendations for mental health education. It is hoped that the recommendations will support students in further education, higher education, in placements and later in their future careers.
As well as presenting the results at the Mental Wellbeing in HE Conference, Dr Didymus and Dr Hargreaves will also present their findings at the MMI Mental Health Research Symposium in Birmingham in October 2025.
Read more about the Mental Wellbeing in HE Conference on its website.
Image © RCVS
New VMG president to promote non-clinical skills
The new president of the Veterinary Management Group (VMG) has committed to championing non-clinical skills across the veterinary team during her presidency.
Rebecca Robinson VetMB MRCVS made her inaugural speech during this year's VMG Congress, which took place from 24-25 April in Stratford-upon-Avon.
Ms Robinson has over two decades of experience in clinical practice and leadership. She is also a Platinum Academy Consultant and is lead coach on the Vet Graduate Academy at Vet Dynamics.
In her speech, Ms Robinson addressed the 'transformational' impact of training in leadership, management and communication. She said that she had seen colleagues across the sector to improve their confidence, productivity and work-life balance through their personal development.
She said that success was dependent on leaders being provided with the right tools and knowledge.
Ms Robinson said: “If we want veterinary teams to truly thrive - individually and collectively - we must prioritise personal leadership development. The benefits are clear: stronger teams, healthier businesses, and ultimately, better care for our patients.
“I will be working with my fellow VMG directors this year to drive this message home and to support our members – and others in the sector – to develop their own non-clinical skills and those of their teams.”
VMG Congress 2025 also saw the release of the latest State of UK Veterinary Leadership report.
The report revealed that 92 per cent of those recently promoted to leadership roles felt that their leadership skills were 'basic'. Forty-seven per cent said their skills were 'intermediate', while only 2 per cent said they were an 'expert'.
The congress hosted an educational programme, including VMG's own 'walk and talk' session along the River Avon. The session was designed to promote informal networking among veterinary leaders, inviting them to reflect on their management careers.
Delegates also celebrated those who had recently graduated from VMG's Level 5 Certificate in Veterinary Leadership and Management (CVLM).
Image © VMG
Rare male fossa moves to Chester Zoo
A rare Malagasy fossa has been moved to Chester Zoo as part of a conservation programme to save the highly threatened species.
Zaza, a seven-year-old male fossa, travelled from San Diego Zoo after being selected as a genetic match for Chester Zoo's female fossa Shala.
The fossa is native to Madagascar, where it is the largest natural predator. They are closely related to the mongoose, but have retractable claws like cats.
However, as a result of mass deforestation in Madagascar, the species has become highly threatened. It is now estimated that there are fewer than 2,500 fossas living in the wild.
The International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists the species as vulnerable to extinction.
Zaza's move to Chester Zoo forms part of a global conservation breeding programme to save the species. It is hoped that Zaza and Shala will contribute to the survival of their species by having pups.
Fossa live solitary lives, and so Zaza and Shala will spend much of their time apart.
During the first stage of their introduction, zookeepers will rotate them separately through different habitats, giving them the opportunity to smell each other. They will also be able to see each other through a glass window and a slideable screen, without being able to get to one another.
For the conservation project to work, the two fossa must be introduced at precisely the right moment. This is because female fossa only come into season once a year, for a two-week period.
Jack Cunningham, a keeper in the carnivore team at the zoo, said: “They’re usually a silent species, except for when the females are looking for males, and then they will vocalise.
“After a few days of soft introductions through the windows and mesh, we’ll know Shala is ready to meet Zaza because she will stand at the top of a tree and scream, which is her way of saying: I’m ready!”
Shala has previously had a litter of pups at Chester Zoo with her last mate, Isalo, who will be moving zoos himself as part of the breeding programme. The litter of pups have already found new homes in the UK and abroad.
Her mating call has also played its part in improving scientific knowledge of the species.
Researchers recorded the call and analysed it to create a spectrogram – a visual representation of the sound. It is being used in the Madagascan rainforest to identify female fossas looking for mates in the wild.
This not only helps researchers in tracking species numbers, but also helps identify their preferred environments.
Speaking about Shala, Mr Cunningham added: “She was a wonderful mum to her first pups, so we’re excited to see if she and Zaza have their own litter.”
Image © Chester Zoo
Industry responds to CMA 'remedies' paper
Veterinary organisations have continued to respond to the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) suggested remedies, after they were published last week.
The British Small Animal Veterinary Association (BSAVA) and British Veterinary Nursing Association (BVNA) have each released preliminary responses, as they prepare full responses for the CMA's deadline on Tuesday, 27 May at 5pm.
BSAVA commended the CMA inquiry group for recognising the dedication of veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses to their profession. It particularly highlighted the CMA's findings that 88 per cent of pet owners believed their veterinary team gave a high standard of veterinary care.
However BSAVA also noted the CMA's commentary on the commercial relationship between business and pet owners.
In its working paper, the CMA asserted that no decision had been made on whether the remedies would be necessary. BSAVA has reiterated its appeal to the CMA that any remedies are considered and introduced in a way that supports businesses with adapting and avoids unintended consequences.
However, the CMA also acknowledged positive changes throughout the profession during the course of its investigation. BSAVA says it has supported these improvements through its published resources, including a document explaining how components of veterinary care are covered in fees.
The BVNA has acknowledged the need for a 'well-functioning' market. It has supported the CMA's calls for greater transparency and improved communication.
It says that, throughout the CMA investigation, it has remained committed to promoting the role of veterinary nurses in providing veterinary care.
The organisation says that it is 'encouraged' by some of the draft remedies, which its says could lead to more effective utilisation of veterinary nurses. This could include protection of the 'veterinary nurse' title, clarification of legislative framework and future legislative reform.
Lyndsay Hughes, BVNA president, said: “BVNA will continue to provide a strong and clear voice for its members throughout the remainder of the CMA investigation. Veterinary nurses should be encouraged that these draft recommendations demonstrate that the CMA is listening, and values the significant contribution we make to delivering excellent patient care.
“We will continue to keep our members updated as the consultation and wider investigation continues.”
Image © Shutterstock
New fat-scoring resources for horse owners
The toolkit aims to simplify the fat-scoring process.
World Horse Welfare has announced new resources for horse owners to help monitor their horses’ weight.
Launching at the upcoming Badminton Horse Trials, the new #feelforfat resources have been designed in response to feedback about the realities of fat scoring horses.
Sam Chubbock, head of UK support at World Horse Welfare, said: “Equine weight management can be a sensitive issue, fraught with worries about associated health risks.
“Our new #FeelForFat resources are aimed at helping horse owners to feel more confident in assessing their horses’ weight. They reflect feedback from some recent fat scoring surveys and workshops, which suggested making the process clearer.”
While fat scoring is a valuable tool for horse owners, research shows that many people struggle to accurately fat score their own horse.
To further explore this issue, staff at WHW were asked to complete a survey examining the motivations and barriers to fat scoring, and then participate in a series of fat scoring workshops.
The results were used to update the charity’s existing weight management resources and incorporate a new way of presenting each of the scored body areas.
Instead of using a traditional whole-body diagram per score, the new resources simplify the fat scoring process by covering each area of the body scored separately. E.g. Neck and shoulder, back and barrel and hindquarters.
Visitors to Badminton will be able to try out the new resources for themselves upon a life-sized model of a horse named ‘Freddie’. There will be also representatives from WHW on the stand to answer any questions horse owners may have, or provide advice.
Image (C) Shutterstock.
Entries open for RSPCA Young Photographer Awards
Entries have officially opened for the 2025 RSPCA Young Photographer Awards.
Photographers that are aged 18 years and under now have until 13 August 2025 to submit photographs, taken by camera or mobile device, which capture the animal kingdom.
The competition consists of 11 different categories, including Pet Portraits, Urban Animals and Portfolio entries. There are also separate categories for entrants under 12, aged 12-15 and aged 16-18.
The charity has this year launched a new category, 'Documenting Animals'. This category will celebrate three photographs which tell a story about an individual animal or comment on the natural world.
Entrants are asked to use their photo journalist skills to document real stories about events and animals to inspire and educate. Entries must be accompanied by 120 words illustrating the series of images, providing background to the overarching narrative.
Andrew Forsyth, RSPCA photographer and competition judge, said: “We’re looking for a positive story that leaves a lasting impression.
“We want the entrants to show that they have thought about the narrative of their images, perhaps they might show the changing landscape of a nature reserve or a conservation project, maybe showing how humans help animals through rewilding initiatives or volunteering, or perhaps the images capture a series of moments which perfectly encapsulates an animal welfare or conservation issue."
This year's RSPCA Young Photographer Awards will be judged by a panel of experts in wildlife photography: Ellie Rothnie, Andrew Forsyth, Emma Jacobs and former competition winner Catriona Parfitt.
The winners in each category will be awarded trophies and a selection of prizes at a ceremony at the Tower of London in December.
Ellie Rothnie said: “The RSPCA’s Young Photographer Awards is the ultimate celebration of young creative talent.
“Every year, the entries are astounding, and indeed many winners from this competition have become immensely successful professional photographers. I am truly honoured to be a judge again, I can’t wait to see this year’s entries.”
Image © RSPCA Young Photographer Awards
New project to eradicate mink in Outer Hebrides
A Scottish nature project is to receive vital funding to eradicate the mink population in the Outer Hebrides.
Saving Nature Outer Hebrides will work to continue reducing the numbers of the invasive species in the Scottish islands, which threaten local bird populations.
The project has received £94,000 in funding from the Scottish Government's Nature Restoration Fund (NRF). Using the funding, NatureScot, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar and Community Land Outer Hebrides will collaborate to develop a plan to completely eradicate mink from the area.
American mink first came to the Outer Hebrides in the 1950s, amidst a rise in fur farms in the area.
The mink proved to be aggressive and opportunistic predators, which took whatever prey was available to them. This means they are often killing more prey than the food which they require.
NatureScot says that the presence of mink in the Outer Hebrides poses a threat to many bird populations.
This latest project will build upon the work of the Hebridean Mink Project, which has already significantly reduced mink numbers to extremely low levels.
Those involved with the project say that its had positive consequences for internationally important bird populations. Ground nesting birds have particularly benefitted from the project's trapping scheme.
Many bird species are expected to benefit from the scheme, including terns and gulls, as well as many wader and duck species. It could also minimise predation on juvenile salmon and sea trout populations.
David Maclennan, NatureScot's head of operations, said: “It’s clear, however, that the existing level of trapping has not been enough to completely eradicate mink from the islands. We believe that while it will be challenging, total removal is feasible and in the long-term offers both the most effective protection for our native wildlife and the most cost-effective solution to the problem.
“This funding marks a step change in our approach. We are determined that this new project will learn from the past and make the changes required to maximise the chance of success in future.”
Image © Shutterstock
BVA seeks nominations for Young Vet of the Year award
Do you know an inspirational early-career vet?
The British Veterinary Association (BVA) is seeking nominations for its 2025 Young Vet of the Year Award, which celebrates early-career vets who have shown outstanding care, dedication or success.
The BVA Young Vet of the Year Award is open to all young registered vets in the first eight years of their career and registered with the RCVS. Nominees may have delivered exceptional care to a patient, made a positive contribution to their community or the wider veterinary profession, or shown their dedication to a cause.
Last year’s winner was Dr David Charles MRCVS for demonstrating enthusiasm and outstanding support for the farming community and resilience during challenging times. David said of his win:
“I was stunned to even be nominated for this prestigious award, let alone win it! I am absolutely delighted and humbled at the same time. My career has been a real journey of ups and downs so far, but I’ve overcome the challenges in my way and have had the chance to undertake and create several different opportunities since having to step away from full-time clinical work.
“I hope to do this award justice and to inspire other young vets who may also be going through difficult times to rise to the challenge and embrace the varied opportunities our profession offers. Congratulations to my fellow finalists too.”
Nominations can be from veterinary professionals, animal owners and veterinary clients. Early career vets keen to show their commitment and dedication to the profession may also self-nominate for the award.
The winner will be announced on Thursday, 16 October 2025 at the BVA Awards, London, where they will receive a prize of £1,000, a year of free BVA membership and a mentoring/engagement opportunity with award sponsor, Zoetis UK.
BVA president Dr Elizabeth Mullineaux, said: “We know how hard all vets work to care for the UK’s animals and to protect both human and animal health and welfare. Our young and early career vets deserve to have their incredible work recognised, and this award is an opportunity to highlight their compassion, skills and positive contribution to the profession.”
Entries will remain open until 9 am on Monday, 4 August 2025. For more information or to submitI a nomination, visit bva.couk/YVOTY
Image © Shutterstock