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

Battersea to run virtual dog skills classes
The four-week Skills for All course costs £55.
Classes to teach owners new tricks for mental stimulation.

A new virtual training class for dogs has been launched by Battersea Dogs and Cats Home to teach owners skills and techniques to keep their dogs stimulated.

Named 'Skills for All', the sessions will be delivered live and online by the charity's behaviourists to teach dog owners beneficial new tricks for their pet to learn, such as backwards walking, leg weaves and high fives.

The four-week skills course is geared towards dogs aged six months and over, and will be held with no more than six dogs per training session, so each participant will receive plenty of personalised guidance. 

“Lockdown showed just how special the bond between pet and owner can be,” said Rob Bays, Battersea's canine behaviourist and training manager. 

“As we spend more time out of our houses in the summer months, our classes offer owners the chance to spend much-valued quality at-home time with their dogs, strengthening those existing relationships whilst teaching them fun tricks that the whole family can get involved in.

“One of the great things about running these classes virtually is that we’re able to teach dogs fun and mentally stimulating tricks within their familiar home environment, free of any potential distractions and with the support of our expert behaviour team.”

The next Skills for All sessions will begin on 18 July and 27 July, and three classes will be held on each day. Any interested dog owners can find more information, register interest or book a place on a session on the Battersea website.

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

SPVS and FIVP launch VSA survey

News Story 1
 SPVS and FIVP have collaborated to launch a short survey about the proposed reform of the Veterinary Surgeons Act.

The survey will ensure that each organisation's submission accurately represents the experiences of practising veterinary professionals. It will also explore awareness, use and perceived value of the roles undertaken by the RCVS.

It takes around 5-10 minutes to complete, and all responses are anonymous. The survey can be completed here until Thursday, 19 March 2026. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
RCVS annual renewal fee for vets due

RCVS' annual renewal fee for veterinary surgeons is now due. Vets must pay their renewal fee before Wednesday, 1 April 2026.

This year's standard annual fee has increased to 431 from last year's 418. This is an approximately three per cent increase, as approved by RCVS Council and the Privy Council.

Tshidi Gardner, RCVS treasurer, said: "The small fee increase will be used to help deliver both our everyday activities and our new ambitious Strategic Plan, which includes aims such as achieving new legislation, reviewing the Codes of Professional Conduct and supporting guidance, and continuing to support the professions through activities such as the Mind Matters Initiative, RCVS Academy and career development."

A full breakdown of the new fees is on the RCVS website. Information about tax relief is available on the UK government website.