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Introduction of welfare case toolkit
Caroline Allen

BEVA launches one-stop shop to help navigate equine welfare cases

A practical ‘welfare case toolkit’ has been developed in conjunction with the RSPCA and includes a welfare workflow and quick download guides and welfare case forms.

Being called out to a welfare case to assess immediate veterinary needs is part of an ambulatory vet’s role and he or she may also be required to act as a witness.

“Welfare assessments can sometimes be intimidating and it’s natural to feel vulnerable, particularly when circumstances are difficult”, said Merry Smith, BEVA council member who led the project on behalf of BEVA. “Our new ‘Welfare Case Toolkit’ gives you access to the information and resources, even when you are on the road, to support you in dealing with a welfare case.”

The interactive ‘Welfare Workflow’ provides a step-by-step guide to what happens when a vet is called upon to provide an opinion on the health and welfare of the animals involved. It has been produced in a mobile-friendly format or can be printed out and kept in the car. Supporting the ‘Workflow’ is a series of quick downloads, covering all aspects of the process:

  • approach to the welfare case
  • letter of instruction
  • Section 18 of the Animal Welfare Act (2006) certificate
  • witness details sheet
  • witness statement form
  • RSPCA vet examination form
  • guidance notes on how to complete a vet examination welfare case form

Caroline Allen, chief veterinary officer at the RSPCA said: "Vets are absolutely critical to the work of the RSPCA and while we know many vets get a lot of satisfaction from this work saving animals from cruelty and suffering, we know that this work can sometimes be daunting and the law confusing. We are delighted to have worked with BEVA on providing this guidance and hope it is the first step in us providing more support to vets doing this vital work – we literally couldn't do it without you.”

The Welfare Case Toolkit is available free to BEVA members.

 

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VMD invites students to apply for EMS placement

News Story 1
 The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) is inviting applications from veterinary students to attend a one-week extramural studies (EMS) placement in July 2026.

Students in their clinical years of study have until 28 February to apply for the placement, which takes place at the VMD's offices in Addlestone, Surrey, from 6-10 July 2026.

Through a mixture of lectures and workshops, the placement will explore how veterinary medicines are authorised, non-clinical career opportunities, and other important aspects of the VMD's work.  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
RCVS members invited to question Council candidates

RCVS members have been invited to submit questions to candidates for this year's RCVS Council election.

With 15 candidates standing for three available positions, vets have been invited to submit a question of their choosing before voting starts. These questions will be collated, with each candidate answering one question of their choice.

It is recommended that members read the candidates' biographies and statements before submitting questions. One question per member can be submitted to vetvote26@rcvs.org.uk before Wednesday, 25 February 2026.

The RCVS Council election is due to start in March.

With only two candidates for two positions on the VN Council, there will be no VN Council elections this year. Meghan Conroy RVN and Lauren Hargrave RVN will begin their three year terms at RCVS' AGM in July.