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What if pets had superpowers?

Survey reveals owners wish pets could chat to them

A recent survey conducted by the People's Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) has found that a third of owners wish their pet could talk.

The survey, conducted on the charity's social media sites, asked UK owners what superpower they wish their pet had.

While the majority would like their pet to be able to chat with them about their day, one in eight owners wanted their pet to have the power to live forever with eternal health.

The third most popular answer was far more practical, with about one in 10 owners wishing their pet could pick up their own mess or clean out their litter tray.

Other answers included the power of bravery for an anxious rescue dog and the power to escape abuse and mistreatment.

Elaine Pendlebury, senior veterinary surgeon for the PDSA, said: "These answers clearly show how important pets are to people.

"While we don't have a magic wand to grant eternal health, there are plenty of simple things owners can do to help improve their pets' lives. A great place to start is by learning about the five animal welfare needs designed to keep pets healthy and happy."

Click here to find out more.

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Applications open for MMI research grants

News Story 1
 RCVS' Mind Matters Initiative (MMI) has launched round two of its veterinary mental health research grants.

Researchers have until 11.59pm on Wednesday, 28 May 2025 to apply for a grant for research which reflects MMI's 2025 focus areas.

Only one Impact Grant was awarded last year, and so this year there are two Discovery Grants and one Impact Grants available. Each Discovery Grant is worth £5,000 and the Impact Grant is worth £15,000.

For more information or to apply, email researchgrants@rcvs.org.uk to contact the MMI team.

 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
BBC Radio 4 documentary addresses corporate fees

BBC Radio 4's File on 4 Investigates has released a documentary exploring how corporate-owned veterinary practices may be inflating bills to increase profit.

Released on 15 April, 'What's Happening To Your Vet Bills?' revealed the policies which many corporate groups have in place to increase their profits. This included targets and upgrades which veterinary teams are tasked with meeting on a regular basis.

It also features Anrich Vets, an independently-owned practice based in Wigan. Following the case of Staffordshire terrier Benjy, who is diagnosed with a tumour, the documentary shares how the team were able to offer contextualised care and advice to make the procedure as affordable as possible for his owners.

The documentary can be heard on demand on BBC iPlayer.