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National Equine Forum 2025 to explore ‘threat and opportunity’
The event can be attended in-person or through a livestream.
Vets, industry leaders and charity workers will consider the future of equestrianism.

The 33rd National Equine Forum (NEF25) is set to explore the threats and opportunities which face the equine sector.

The annual forum will be held at the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) in London on Thursday, 6 March 2025. Live streaming tickets will also be made available to those who cannot attend the event in person.

The programme will provide opportunities for veterinary professionals, industry leaders and charities to discuss important topics in the equine sector. Each of the main sessions will also be followed by a Q&A session for delegates.

‘The Equine Industry in a Changing World’ seeks to present a Parliamentary perspective on the status on the sector, accompanied by an update from the British Horse Council. This will also include a review of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

A session on ‘Equine Health Updates’ will provide the latest news on serious disease threats to horses in the UK.

‘Equine feeds’ will advise on elements of feed safety and legality. This includes the fundamental role of forage, as well as guidance on where to find reliable and appropriate feed advice.

‘Equine Assisted Services’ explores the important partnership role that horses play in society, both when ridden and when on the ground. It will consider their inclusion in the Paralympic Games, as well as how they facilitate learning and positively impact people’s lives.

NEF25 will include a Memorial Lecture, which this year will discuss how charities work together to protect equine welfare in Britain with views from the ‘front-line’. The winner of this year’s Sir Colin Spedding Award will also be announced.

The event hopes to provide an opportunity for delegates to hear from influential members of the sector, learn about the latest developments and network with those in the industry.

Tim Brigstocke, NEF chairman, said: “In this year’s programme we have picked some of the most pertinent areas presenting opportunities or threats to the sector,

“We will be addressing these in our inimitable, balanced style, for which NEF has become renowned. We look forward to welcoming you either in person or via the livestream.”

Early bird tickets are on sale until 8 January 2025, while live streaming tickets will be released in January.

Image © Shutterstock

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Vets launch new podcast for pet owners

News Story 1
 Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.

The venture, called Vets Talking Pets, provides advice and information on a range of topics, including how to select a suitable pet, where to obtain them and how to get the best out of your vet. Maggie and Vanessa will also discuss sensitive subjects, including end-of-life care, raw food diets and the cost of veterinary care.

The podcast can be found on all the usual podcast sites, including Podbean, Apple, Amazon Music and YouTube. 

Click here for more...
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RCVS Regional Question Time heads to Edinburgh

The RCVS is to bring its Regional Question Time (RQT) to Edinburgh for 2026.

The event will take place at Novotel Edinburgh Park in Edinburgh on Wednesday, 20 May 2026.

It will begin with supper and drinks at 6.30pm, with an evening programme from 7.30pm. This will start with an update on RCVS' activities, followed by questions and answers with representatives.

RCVS is encouraging an 'open dialogue', in which queries can be raised in a friendly, informal environment.

While discussions are expected to be audience-led, the RQT is expected address major issues including the VSA, the CMA's remedy package and the VN Vision project.

Tim Parkin, RCVS president, said: "It's an important time for the professions, and I'm looking forward to meeting colleagues in Scotland as we navigate this period of change together so we can come out stronger."

Tickets can be booked here.