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Final call for MMI abstract submissions
This is RCVS MMI's fifth biennial symposium.
Researchers have until 28 February to share their mental health research.

The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) has made a final call for researchers to share their abstracts for its 2025 veterinary mental health research symposium, with less than a month until submissions close.

RCVS’ Mind Matters Initiative (MMI) must receive all entries before 11.59pm on Friday, 28 February.

This year will mark the MMI’s fifth biennial symposium, which will be hosted at Birmingham’s Eastside Rooms on 10 October 2025. It will provide an opportunity for mental health researchers to submit their research and collaborate with other researchers from around the world and at all career stages.

The theme of this year’s symposium is ‘Advancing veterinary mental health research: learning from the past, considering the present, and looking to the future’. RCVS says that the veterinary profession must collaborate with mental health researchers and other allied professions to improve the mental health of veterinary professionals.

RCVS will be sharing the research projects that it believes to be high quality, that also cover a range of topics relating to mental health and align with its strategic areas of focus.

Researchers can submit their research abstract for either oral or poster presentation. The MMI abstract guide provides information on the submission process as well as entry criteria.

Rapinder Newton, MMI lead, said: “This year is an important milestone for MMI. Not only are we hosting our fifth biennial veterinary mental health research symposium, but it is also our tenth anniversary.

“Evidence based research plays an essential role in our work at MMI. It allows us to shape our understanding, helps us enhance policy and practice, and create support mechanisms specifically tailored to veterinary professionals.”

More details about the symposium and abstract submission can be found on the Mind Matters website, including the abstract submission guide and submission forms.

Image © RCVS

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

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.