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.
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

Hartpury PhD student receives prestigious scholarship
Aisling's study will consider bacterial infections, environmental and husbandry factors.

Aisling Carroll will investigate the effects of probiotic use among dairy calves.

A Hartpury University PhD student has been awarded a scholarship to support research into dairy calves.

Aisling Carroll received an Edgar Pye Research Trust Scholarship to investigate the effects of probiotic use among dairy calves to promote overall health and wellbeing. 

Her study will consider bacterial infections, environmental and husbandry factors, as well as exploring the use of a probiotic supplement and its potential impact during key management events, such as weaning or a change in housing.

It is hoped the study can provide recommendations to calf rearing systems in the UK and Ireland regarding the supplementation of a probiotic.

Aisling, who also works as a Lecturer and Programme Manager for Hartpury University’s BSc (Hons) Applied Animal Science with Therapy and BSc (Hons) Bioveterinary Science, said: “I am very grateful to the Edgar Pye Research Trust and the judging panel who will greatly support my study through this scholarship funding. Here at Hartpury University, we’re passionate about carrying out research that can truly make a difference in the real world.

“I’m hopeful that my study will provide much needed clarity about the effectiveness of probiotics and their potential in improving calf health."

The Edgar Pye Research Scholarship is open to anyone studying agriculture or a related subject, or who is already employed in the UK or Irish animal feed industry. 

The awards are given to an applicant who, in the opinion of the judging panel, has most capably identified an area of relevant research, prepared a programme thoroughly, provided a realistic budget and presented a clear proposal. 

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

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.