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BSAVA names new president
David Godfrey has been named president of the BSAVA for 2025-26.

David Godfrey will lead the organisation for 2025-26.

Small animal dermatologist, David Godfrey, has began his role as president of the BSAVA for 2025-26.

David succeeds Julian Hoad - who has become senior vice president - and will continue to focus on BSAVA’s Programme of Change.

An Advanced Practitioner in small animal dermatology, David holds postgraduate qualifications in small animal dermatology and medicine. 

Together with his wife, Rosie, he started the first feline-only practice in the UK. He is board certified in feline practice and has an RCVS Fellowship in feline osteoarthritis. 

David was pivotal in the establishment of the BSAVA West Midlands Committee and was a BSAVA Council member and Chair of the regions for three years before joining the board and presidential ladder.

At the BSAVA’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Thursday (19 June), David said: “The whole of the veterinary profession is lucky to have the strength of the BSAVA. BSAVA has a robust team, and I greatly look forward to working with them.

“It is an honour being BSAVA President for 2025-2026, but this next year will not be about me. It will be about the renewal of BSAVA, it will hear us shouting out with an ever-increasing voice about the most exciting innovations and I promise to do my very best.”

As well as focusing on BSAVA’s programme of change, David will focus on BSAVA’s new strategy, which includes new products and services. 

Julian Hoad said: "Iam incredibly grateful for the opportunity to serve as President over the past year. I am proud to call myself a member of the BSAVA. It’s an association that diligently serves and supports so many of our wonderful profession.”

Other changes to the BSAVA board include Niall Connell, who begins his new role as junior vice president. Niall will sit alongside Jo Megarity, who joins the board as Honorary Treasurer.

Image (C) BSAVA.

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Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

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News Shorts
Lords Committee opens Pet Parasite Medication inquiry

The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee will launch its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medication (PPM) on Wednesday (3 June).

Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.