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

Climate scientist to speak at BVA Congress
Dr Tamsin Edwards will deliver the keynote speech at BVA Congress in November.

Dr Tamsin Edwards to deliver 53rd Wooldridge Memorial Lecture.

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has announced that climate scientist Dr Tamsin Edwards will be the keynote speaker for its 2021 Congress (11-12 November) at London Vet Show.

BVA president James Russell said he was “incredibly excited” to be welcoming such an influential voice on climate change “at a time when the whole world will be talking about these issues”.

Dr Edward’s talk, entitled ‘Polar thinking’, will unravel the view that climate change is a black and white issue and present a nuanced and personal journey into the science of climate change.

She will also explain how climate science works, how to deal with polarisation and explore how humans can make sense of an increasingly complex and uncertain future. 

“Dr Edwards has a reputation for drawing from a wide range of research within the field of climate science and the environment, and for leaving audiences better informed and better able to question their own and others’ pre-existing beliefs on the subject,” said Mr Russell.

“With the majority of vets in the UK saying they would like to play a more active role in the sustainability agenda, I’m sure colleagues from all areas of the veterinary profession will find her lecture inspiring and informative.”

Dr Edwards began her scientific career as a particle physicist before moving into climate science in 2006. A popular science broadcaster, she writes a blog for the Public Library of Science entitled “All models are wrong” and co-presents BBC Radio 4’s “39 ways to save the planet” with Tom Heap. 

Tamsin will deliver the 53rd Wooldridge Memorial Lecture concurrently with the COP26 UN Climate Change Conference, which will be taking place in Glasgow.

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

Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.