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Dogs sought for autoimmune disease study
‘Petechiae’ - a dog with immune mediated thrombocytopenia showing oral petechiae (oral small, pintpoint bleeding).

The RVC-led project aims to improve canine wellbeing. 

Pet owners of dogs with autoimmune diseases are being invited to take part in a study to improve the wellbeing of those diagnosed in the future.

The study is being led by Drs Barbara Glanemann and James Swann at the RVC, who have created an observational registry to gather information about dogs recently diagnosed with autoimmune disease.

The ‘ImmunoRegistry’ data will be collected in real-time over a year after diagnosis to find out how the dogs respond to treatment.

Dr Glanemann explained: “We are looking to observe as many dogs as possible so that we can examine the data and ultimately share more informed advice and guidance with vets, and in turn, owners.

“This ambitious project relies on the enthusiasm and support of dog owners, and we look forward to using our results to improve the wellbeing of any dog diagnosed with immune-mediated disease in the future.”

The observational registry will collect data on dogs diagnosed in local practices and specialist hospitals. Researchers will then use the information to examine the prognosis associated with the diseases, if there are risks or relapse and whether medication works better in certain dog breeds. 

In particular, the team is seeking dogs diagnosed with IMHA, ITP, IMPA or SRMA. To meet the criteria, pet owners should:

  • be UK based 
  • register their interest and consent to participate in the study within 14 days of their dog receiving a diagnosis of one of the above conditions
  • be willing to fill out six, five-minute surveys on the quality of life of their dog over 12 months following diagnosis.

For more information and to register your interest, visit rvc.onlinesurveys.ac.uk/immunoregistry

 

Image (C) RVC.

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BSAVA partners with BVA Live 2026

News Story 1
 BSAVA is to partner with BVA Live (11-12 June 2026) to champion clinical research.

The organisation will be supporting BVA Live's Clinical Abstracts programme, showcasing selected abstracts of veterinary research throughout the event.

The clinical abstracts can be on any small animal veterinary subject, and must be based on research undertaken in industry, practice or academia. Abstracts can be presented in poster or oral formats.

Submissions will open on 15th December 2025, and close on 6th March 2026. You can register interest here

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.