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

Fundraiser launched for dog with ‘severe back deformity’
Herbert's deformity causes him difficulty with standing, laying down, walking and playing.
Herbert was rescued by RSPCA last month.

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) has launched a fundraiser, after it rescued an eleven-month-old crossbreed with a ‘severe back deformity’.

Herbert will need high quality veterinary care, including specialist scans and treatments, to enable the team to plan for his recovery.

He was brought into Martlesham Animal Centre, run by the charity’s Suffolk Central branch, a few weeks ago suffering from significant pain and discomfort.

His deformed back caused him difficulty with standing, laying down, walking and playing. He was also malnourished when he arrived, with little muscle covering his body and a severe curve to his spine.

The RSPCA Central Suffolk team has already worked hard to improve Herbert’s prospects. He has been given necessary pain relief and gentle physio to aid with his back issues.

Herbert has already gained 3kg in just a week at the centre.

Kennel assistants have been working to build up his muscles and strength, but believe that he still has some way to go on his road to recovery. Herbert is now awaiting specialist scans and tests, which will inform his future treatment plans.

As the costs for Herbert’s treatments and scans continue to build, the team are now appealing for donations to support his recovery.

It has begun a fundraiser, Help for Herbert, which will contribute towards the costs of his future scans and treatment. The team’s current target is £1,500 for Herbert’s CT scan and advanced imaging.

The generous donations of RSPCA’s supporters means the fundraiser has already reached over £1,200.

The charity has seen an increase in pets that are requiring specialist treatment for a range of health problems. It believes that the cost of living crisis has made it particularly challenging for pet owners to afford necessary treatment for unexpected conditions.

Emma Thresh, senior kennel assistant at Martlesham Animal Centre, said: “Pets are a huge responsibility and they can be a big financial commitment.

“We’d urge pet owners to ensure they have insurance and keep up-to-date with routine veterinary check-ups and preventative treatments, such as flea and worming treatments, as this will be more affordable in the long-term.”

To donate to Herbert’s recovery, visit his fundraising page here.

Image © RSPCA

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

Equine Disease Surveillance report released for Q4 2025

News Story 1
 The latest Equine Disease Surveillance report has been released, with details on equine disease from Q4 of 2025.

The report, produced by Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance, includes advice on rule changes for equine influenza vaccination.

Statistics and maps detail recent outbreaks of equine herpes virus, equine influenza, equine strangles and equine grass sickness. A series of laboratory reports provides data on virology, bacteriology, parasitology and toxicosis.

This issue also features a case study of orthoflavivus-associated neurological disease in a horse in the UK. 

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.