Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.

Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

New BSAVA president to build on virtual congress success
Dr Sheldon Middleton has been appointed president of the BSAVA for 2021/22.
Dr Sheldon Middleton plans to shape Congress 2022 into ‘the ultimate veterinary get-together’.

The new president of the British Veterinary Association (BSAVA) plans to build on the success of the recent BSAVA Virtual Congress to shape his presidential year.

Dr Sheldon Middleton, who took over the role from Professor Ian Ramsey on Thursday (22 April), is managing director of RVC Veterinary Practices Ltd and principal at Acorn House Veterinary Hospital in Bedford. 

A graduate of Cambridge University, he has a particular interest and a GP Certificate in ophthalmology and has been a member of the BSAVA Board for the past five years.

Dr Middleton said his goal is to shape Congress 2022 into ‘the ultimate veterinary get-together’ as the country begins to recover from the pandemic. 

“We intend to build on this for BSAVA Congress 2022 by deploying a cleverly blended format to retain the high degree of accessibility and flexibility that delegates have so enjoyed this year,” he said. “We will be releasing further details on BSAVA Congress 2022 in the early summer.” 

Dr Middleton also plans to focus on BSAVA’s support for the small animal veterinary community as it emerges from the pandemic.

“The profession has shown incredible resilience and dynamism in responding to the changing demands of our patients,” he continued. “But we need to be careful that this is not at the expense of our own wellbeing. BSAVA’s community support, practical education and science resources and leadership are all there to support the profession as it pivots to a new way of working.” 

Professor Ian Ramsey wished Dr Middleton success in his presidential year. He commented: “With our plans for BSAVA Congress 2022 already significantly underway and our commitment to returning to a face-to-face event in Manchester in March, Sheldon has an exciting year ahead.”

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Greyhound Board announces change to vaccination guidance

News Story 1
 The Greyhound Board of Great Britain has published new vaccination guidance, with all greyhounds registered from 1 January, 2027 required to have the L4 leptospirosis vaccination, rather than L2.

The change comes in response to the reduced availability of the 'L2' Leptospirosis vaccine across the UK, and aims to support best biosecurity practice across the racing greyhound population.

GBGB veterinary director Simon Gower, said "While rare, Leptospirosis is a serious infectious disease that can affect both dogs and humans, so it is vital that we offer our greyhounds the broadest possible protection.  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Nominations open for RCVS and VN Council elections

The nomination period for the 2026 RCVS Council and VN Council elections is now open, with three veterinary surgeon seats and two veterinary nurse seats available.

Prospective candidates can download an information pack and nomination form from the RCVS website. Individuals can nominate themselves for the elections, with the results to be announced in the spring.

Clare Paget, the recently appointed RCVS Registrar and elections returning officer, said: "If you want to play your part in influencing and moulding how the professions are regulated, and making key decisions on matters of great importance to your peers, the public and animal health and welfare, please consider standing for RCVS Council or VN Council next year."

Nominations close at 5pm on Saturday, 31 January 2026.