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Voting now open for BVA regional representatives
"It is more important than ever that our members have robust representation at the highest level within BVA." James Russell.

Members urged to elect a 'strong voice for vets in their region'

Voting has now opened to elect four new regional representatives who will represent the views of veterinary professionals in their area to the BVA Council.

According to BVA, regional representatives are 'integral' to the activities of the council, helping to assess veterinary policy and informing the actions of BVA's Policy Committee. Regional representatives serve on BVA Council for a three-year term.

The nominees for each region are:

  • South east: Eleanor Duffy, Paul Horwood, Fieke Molenaar and Christina Ratcliffe
  • East of England: Louise Rayment-Dyble and Johanna Sharples
  • North west: Ben Dustan, Kate Higgins, Neil Howie and Vanessa Whitfield
  • Scotland: Emma Callaghan, Matthew Erskine, Bobby Kirby, and James Wallace.

James Russell, BVA president said: “With an increasingly complex veterinary landscape and a year marked by huge challenges to the profession, it is more important than ever that our members have robust representation at the highest level within BVA.

“I’d encourage everyone who’s eligible to vote to take this opportunity to elect a candidate who can be a strong voice for vets in their region.”

BVA members will in the four regions will receive voting instructions via email from UK Engage, which is administering the election on behalf of BVA.

Voting closes at 5.00pm on 15 February. Candidate biographies and voting instructions can be viewed on the BVA website.

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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.