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RSPCA Primate Podcast
As the Government launches a new set of guidelines for people who keep primates, this month’s RSPCA wildlife podcast focuses on what that code means - and why it wants a ban on primates as pets.

RSPCA wildlife scientist Dr. Ros Clubb contributed to Defra’s new primate code and explains its purpose in the monthly feature. “Primates are intelligent, socially complex wild animals that can suffer greatly in captivity, but they currently have very little protection under UK law. It’s estimated there are around 5,000 kept privately in the UK, and whilst our calls for a ban have not yet been answered, this new code, if passed, is a step in the right direction.”

In December last year, Ros attended 10 Downing Street with the organisation Wild Futures to hand over a petition signed by more than 31,000 people calling for a ban on trade in pet primates and supported by over 360 eminent primatologists, conservationists and primate rescue organisations who are calling for a ban on the keeping of primate as pets.

Every month, scientists from the RSPCA’s wildlife department keep website visitors up to date with wild animal welfare issues. This month listeners will also get to hear about how the Society is helping animals in Haiti after the devastating earthquake, and the story of an owl spotted over five years after its rehabilitation and release from one of our wildlife centres.  

You can listen to the podcast by clicking here.

For more information on Defra’s code, please click here.

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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...
News Shorts
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.