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BHA announce seventh case of morphine
racehorse
BHA have received analysis reporting the findings and the trainers involved have been informed.

Two further post-race samples found to contain morphine, bringing total to seven

The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has been notified that two further post-race samples, obtained from recent race meetings, have been found to  contain morphine - a prohibited substance on raceday.

The two horses are under the care of two separate trainers. BHA have received analysis reporting the findings and the trainers involved have been informed.

BHA say that they will not make public any information regarding the identity of the horses, trainers or owners until all necessary processes are completed. This includes counteranalysis of respective "B" samples requested by those connected with the horses, and the BHA's own investigations.

In total, seven horses under the care of various trainers have now been reported to show the presence of the drug in their "A" samples.

The BHA have not ruled out the reporting of further positive detections from post-race samples obtained in recent weeks. The authority are continuing to investigate any link between the individual cases and are working closely with the British Equine Trade Association, the National Trainers Federation and the trainers of the horses in question.

Once all processes have been completed, the cases will be put before a disciplinary panel who will consider the matters before deciding what action, if any, should be taken. This may include the disqualification of the horses in question from the relevant races. 

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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.