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Scotland and Wales welcome new BVA presidents
Ronnie Soutar
Communication with members a key focus for branch leaders

Branches of the British Veterinary Association (BVA) in Scotland and Wales have welcomed two new presidents, Ronnie Soutar and Rob Davies, who will act as a voice for the profession in their regions.

For the next two years, Ronnie and Rob will promote the views of the veterinary profession on key issues such as disease control, welfare at slaughter and dog control.

Mr Soutar, who was elected president of the Scottish branch at the end of June, is an independent consultant in aquaculture and veterinary business development.

Speaking after his election, he commented on the increasingly prominent role of the branch, adding: "The changing political scene in Scotland makes this a fascinating and important time for the profession here and I’m very glad to help our voice be heard.

"I will be working with the BVA officers and staff on ways in which we can further increase Scottish membership and more effectively gather the views of our members."

Mr Davies, veterinary officer for the Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency (AHVLA), also spoke of the importance of communication with members of the profession.

Having been elected president at the Welsh branch AGM in early July, Mr Davies spoke directly to BVA members in Wales: "Tell your representatives what you think about issues of the day…And of course feel free to raise veterinary matters of concern which impact on you, your clients, and especially on the health and welfare of animals."

Welcoming the new presidents, BVA president Peter Jones noted the vital work of its branches in providing local knowledge and supporting the wider lobbying activities of the association as a whole.

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BVA NI elects first president

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FIVP launches CMA remedies survey

News Story 1
 FIVP has shared a survey, inviting those working in independent practice to share their views on the CMA's proposed remedies.

The Impact Assessment will help inform the group's response to the CMA, as it prepares to submit further evidence to the Inquiry Group. FIVP will also be attending a hearing in November.

Data will be anonymised and used solely for FIVP's response to the CMA. The survey will close on Friday, 31 October 2025. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Free webinar explores congenital heart disease in dogs

A free webinar is to provide veterinary professionals, dog breeders and pet owners an new insights into congenital heart disease.

Chris Linney, a cardiology specialist and Veterinary Cardiovascular Society (VSC) member, will present the webinar from 7.00pm to 8.30pm on Wednesday, 12 November.

Dr Linney will explore the types, causes and clinical presentation of congenital heart conditions. This will include diagnostic approaches, treatment pathways and emerging research opportunities.

The session is the third to be organised by The Kennel Club, with the VCS, following an introductory webinar and a talk on acquired heart disease. Dr Linney's webinar consists of a one-hour presentation, followed by a 30-minute question and answer session.

Dr Linney said: "This webinar will be an opportunity to deepen understanding - not just of the diseases themselves, but of how breeders, vets and owners can work together to support affected dogs and improve outcomes for future generations."

Click here to register for the webinar.