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The impact of online pharmacies
pills
"Online pharmacies could pose a serious threat to the profitability of veterinary practices."
Survey aims to find out if practices in the UK are already affected

Are veterinary practices in the UK already feeling the impact of online pharmacies? This is the question Edinburgh researchers hope to answer with a new online survey.

Online pharmacies are an increasingly popular alternative source for buying pet medication. Some insurance companies even require clients to buy medicines online rather than from their veterinary practice.

Furthermore, the Veterinary Medicines Directorate's (VMD) accredited online retailer scheme may be helping to improve client confidence in drugs bought online.

A survey has been launched by the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and the Roslin Institute to find out if this increasing threat is already being felt by practices in the UK.

The survey was announced in the letters section of the latest Veterinary Record (Vol 175, No 11).

Hannah Henderson wrote: "Online pharmacies could pose a serious threat to the profitability of veterinary practices."

The short survey aims to find out how aware practices are of this threat and whether they have already noticed a change in client behaviour.

To complete the survey, visit: www.surveymonkey.com/s/MQ97VJF

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Vets launch new podcast for pet owners

News Story 1
 Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.

The venture, called Vets Talking Pets, provides advice and information on a range of topics, including how to select a suitable pet, where to obtain them and how to get the best out of your vet. Maggie and Vanessa will also discuss sensitive subjects, including end-of-life care, raw food diets and the cost of veterinary care.

The podcast can be found on all the usual podcast sites, including Podbean, Apple, Amazon Music and YouTube. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
RCVS Regional Question Time heads to Edinburgh

The RCVS is to bring its Regional Question Time (RQT) to Edinburgh for 2026.

The event will take place at Novotel Edinburgh Park in Edinburgh on Wednesday, 20 May 2026.

It will begin with supper and drinks at 6.30pm, with an evening programme from 7.30pm. This will start with an update on RCVS' activities, followed by questions and answers with representatives.

RCVS is encouraging an 'open dialogue', in which queries can be raised in a friendly, informal environment.

While discussions are expected to be audience-led, the RQT is expected address major issues including the VSA, the CMA's remedy package and the VN Vision project.

Tim Parkin, RCVS president, said: "It's an important time for the professions, and I'm looking forward to meeting colleagues in Scotland as we navigate this period of change together so we can come out stronger."

Tickets can be booked here.