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Conference to examine OV role in a post-Brexit world
"My experiences over the last year have made me even more proud to be part of the veterinary profession" - Andrew Soldan, APHA veterinary director.
Event will discuss all aspects of the role and where it is headed

The role of Official Veterinarians (OVs) and the challenges they face in a post-Brexit world are set to go under the spotlight at this year’s virtual OV Conference.

Run in association with the APHA, the OV Conference is the UK’s only event dedicated to the CPD needs of OVs. This year’s event will take place over three days (28-30 September), and promises more than 18 hours of lectures and Q&A sessions from leading speakers.

“During this year, the realities of our post-Brexit world have started to reveal themselves while we have endured another lockdown before finally starting to emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic,” commented Sue Hay, head of OV Training at Improve International, which organises the event.

“Throughout the year, OVs have shown huge commitment in working through the eye of the storm. But, while there have been many challenges, there have also been areas of opportunity and the potential for positive change. We look forward to discussing all aspects of the OV’s role and where it’s headed following this extraordinary year during the 2021 OV Conference.”

Among the speakers named for this year's event include BVA President James Russell, Ian Wright, head of the European Scientific Counsel of Companion Animal Parasites UK & Ireland, and Dr Sam Holland, veterinary head of exotics and welfare. Former APHA director Simon Hall will share practical experience from his current role as an export OV.

 “My experiences over the last year have made me even more proud to be part of the veterinary profession, " commented Andrew Soldan, APHA veterinary director. "The role of vets, especially Official Vets, has never been very prominent in our national life...I hope that the OV conference will help you carry out this vital work to the best of your abilities.”

Early Bird tickets for the annual conference are available at officialvet.com

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Voting opens for BEVA Council

News Story 1
 Eligible members of BEVA will be able to vote for their Council team until Monday, 17 August 2026. Members will have received an election email on 17 July.

There are five candidates standing for four available places on Council. They are:

  • Alexandre Triguino
  • Angela Jones
  • Beth Bryant
  • Holly Rees
  • Hugh Somerville
Full profiles for each candidate can be found on the BEVA website

Click here for more...
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BVA urges 'continued vigilance' over bluetongue

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has urged vigilance following a concerning rise in Bluetongue (BTV) cases in sheep and cattle.

In a recent statement, the BVA noted that members are reporting more severe clinical signs and higher mortality rates than in previous years.

'We know that farm vets are working hard to support farmers and animals affected by this outbreak, during what is an extremely difficult time for all involved,' they stated. 'Continued vigilance to identify disease early is vital and vaccination remains the best way of protecting animals from this disease.'