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Vet launches venture to support animal welfare charities
Vet Maggie Roberts previously worked for Cats Protection.
The company will provide veterinary and legal advice.

A veterinary surgeon has launched a new consultancy company to provide veterinary and legal advice to charities and other not-for-profit organisations involved in animal welfare

Maggie Roberts, who previously worked for Cats Protection as director of feline welfare and director of veterinary services, has set up Advovet alongside lawyer Dominic Sullivan.

As well as working for Cats Protection, Dr Roberts has served as a member of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs’ Small Animal Expert Group among other roles and was recently appointed as the independent chair of the Microchipping Trade Association.

Mr Sullivan has also worked for Cats Protection, including as interim chief executive. Together the two founders have a combined 45 years’ experience in the animal welfare sector.

The company will offer advice on medicine, shelter design, training, governance, and charity and animal welfare law.

Dr Roberts said: “Many people start up animal charities with the best of intentions but can lack the experience of running an organisation or dealing with multiple animals.”

“During my career I’ve seen many become overwhelmed or run out of funds, which can have a negative effect on their mental health and the animals in their care. Others may be doing well but don’t have the capacity or expertise to maximise their impact.

“However, with the right support and guidance these organisations can make a real difference to the animals that need them and this is where we want to help.”

Image © Advovet

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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...
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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.