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.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 12th June 2026
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

Ukrainian lawyer honoured for animal welfare work
Natalie Sorokpoud presented Maryna Surkova with her award at a ceremony in Kyiv.
Maryna Surkova was presented with the Naturewatch Foundation Challenge Coin.

A Ukrainian animal welfare lawyer has been honoured by the Naturewatch Foundation for her work against animal cruelty in the country.

Maryna Surkova, president of the Association of Animal Protection Organisations in Ukraine (AZOU), received the Naturewatch Foundation Challenge Coin at a ceremony in Kyiv on 9 June.

Ms Surkova is recognised for her work strengthening animal protection laws in Ukraine. This has seen her drive the investigation and prosecution of animal cruelty cases across the country, and also supporting police investigations.

As well as being one of Ukraine’s most respected animal welfare advocates and legal experts, she has also been a longstanding partner of Naturewatch Foundation.

She has been presented with her award by Natalie Sorokpoud, Naturewatch Foundation campaign manager, at the annual Zoo-Conscious (Zoosvidomi) Forum. The Naturewatch Foundation Challenge Coin celebrates her ‘exceptional’ contribution to animal welfare.

Ms Sorokpoud said: “I have known Maryna and worked alongside her for many years, and I cannot think of a more deserving recipient of this award. Through her determination, professionalism and deep compassion for animals, she has helped transform the way animal cruelty cases are viewed and investigated in Ukraine.

“Her work has inspired countless animal welfare advocates and has created lasting change that will benefit animals for years to come. It was a privilege to present Maryna with a Naturewatch Foundation Challenge Coin in recognition of her exceptional contribution to animal welfare”

Maryna Surkova said: “Our organisations have worked together for many years, and during that time we have implemented a number of important initiatives to improve animal welfare in Ukraine, including training police officers to investigate crimes against animals and supporting local animal welfare organisations.

“It is especially meaningful to receive this recognition from colleagues who understand how challenging, yet important, this work is. I would like to thank Naturewatch Foundation for its longstanding partnership and support for Ukraine.”

Image © Naturewatch Foundation

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

Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Lords Committee opens Pet Parasite Medication inquiry

The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee will launch its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medication (PPM) on Wednesday (3 June).

Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.