Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.

Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

Belfast PDSA volunteer fundraising team wins national award
The team was presented with their award by PDSA head of fundraising Nigel Spencer at Belfast PDSA Pet Clinic.

Devoted team recognised for large-scale fundraising events

A volunteer fundraising team from Belfast that has helped raise thousands of pounds for PDSA has received a national award for their efforts.

The group has been led by Valerie Morrison for more than 12 years, organising a number of fundraising events including the annual Bark in the Park event. The fundraiser is attended by up to 5,000 people and has helped to raise £17,200 for PDSA since 2015.

The team were presented with their award for Fundraising Group of the Year by PDSA head of fundraising Nigel Spencer at the Belfast PDSA Pet Clinic on Tuesday 18 February.

Mr Spencer said: “PDSA couldn’t exist without our devoted volunteers, and Belfast’s dedicated team of fundraisers of have shown incredible commitment to the charity.

“Every year they go to great lengths to organise PDSA’s Bark in the Park, and its success is a testament to all their hard work. Last year’s event raised £4,500 and was attended by thousands of local dog-lovers, so it was a fantastic achievement.

“Valerie and the team’s passion and dedication to the charity is inspiring. They are great ambassadors for PDSA and we would like to say a huge well done for all of their efforts and congratulations on their Fundraising Group of the Year Award!”

Commenting on the group’s award, Mrs Morrison said: “We are all absolutely delighted to receive this award. A huge thank you must go to the volunteering group – known locally as the ‘Crazy Crafters’ – who have been such a fantastic asset to PDSA Bark in the Park! We really enjoy working towards this day and there are a great many laughs along the way.”

Image (c) PDSA.

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Greyhound Board announces change to vaccination guidance

News Story 1
 The Greyhound Board of Great Britain has published new vaccination guidance, with all greyhounds registered from 1 January, 2027 required to have the L4 leptospirosis vaccination, rather than L2.

The change comes in response to the reduced availability of the 'L2' Leptospirosis vaccine across the UK, and aims to support best biosecurity practice across the racing greyhound population.

GBGB veterinary director Simon Gower, said "While rare, Leptospirosis is a serious infectious disease that can affect both dogs and humans, so it is vital that we offer our greyhounds the broadest possible protection.  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Nominations open for RCVS and VN Council elections

The nomination period for the 2026 RCVS Council and VN Council elections is now open, with three veterinary surgeon seats and two veterinary nurse seats available.

Prospective candidates can download an information pack and nomination form from the RCVS website. Individuals can nominate themselves for the elections, with the results to be announced in the spring.

Clare Paget, the recently appointed RCVS Registrar and elections returning officer, said: "If you want to play your part in influencing and moulding how the professions are regulated, and making key decisions on matters of great importance to your peers, the public and animal health and welfare, please consider standing for RCVS Council or VN Council next year."

Nominations close at 5pm on Saturday, 31 January 2026.