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RCVS launches mental health and wellbeing platform
The app promises an extensive array of modules on different aspects of mental wellbeing.

MMI Kite App has been created specifically for the veterinary community.

The RCVS Mind Matters Initiative (MMI) has announced the launch of its new mental health and wellbeing platform.

Designed for anyone working in the veterinary sector, the free MMI Kite App promises an extensive array of bitesize learning modules on different aspects of mental wellbeing. 

Among the modules include ‘Calm mind’, where users learn to be mindful, manage anxiety and remain in the present, and ‘Hear me’, a module about how to listen to others effectively during stressful times. 

Each module incorporates interactive elements such as videos, journaling and reflection exercises to make learning as engaging as possible. 

Commenting on the launch of the App, Lisa Quigley, Mind Matters Initiative Manager, said: “We’re so pleased to announce the launch of MMI Kite App, and we can’t wait for people from the veterinary community to download and start using it.

“We know from our research that sadly vets and vet nurses are more likely than the general public to experience mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. One of the ways we’re addressing these mental health concerns is through providing a range of wellbeing support resources for the veterinary community, and the MMI Kite App is a resource that we’re really proud to be offering to the profession for free.”

MMI's Kite App has been developed in partnership with The Kite Program, an organisation that specialises in microlearning solutions.

Other modules featured in the App include ‘Taking care’, where users learn techniques for combatting compassion fatigue, and ‘Wellbeing leader’, with suggestions on how to lead the way with wellbeing in the workplace. Compassion fatigue and determining your values are also featured, with more modules expected to be added in the future. 

Ms Quigley continued: “We’ve designed MMI Kite App to be as accessible and engaging as possible, with content that learners will find valuable. We also used feedback from the app testing stages to make sure we developed programmes that the professions told us they felt the app needed to have. We’re confident that anyone who uses the app will find something that will help them with an area of wellbeing that they need support with.”

To register for the app, visit vetmindmatters.org/mmi-app or search for the ‘MMI Kite App’ on your device.

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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.