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

FIVP celebrating its 10th anniversary
FIVP was launched in 2016 to support independent practices.
A special podcast episode will interview key figures.

The Federation of Independent Veterinary Practices (FIVP) is marking ten years of promoting and representing independent practices in the UK.

The not-for-profit organisation was founded in 2016, with the goal of securing a future for independent vet practices.

Since then, FIVP has worked with practice owners and managers to help them to grow their businesses. It regularly attends careers fairs and industry events across the country on behalf of its members.

The launch of the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) investigation into the sector saw FIVP become a main party in proceedings. In October 2025, the group surveyed independent practices across the country to inform its response to the CMA’s proposals.

To celebrate its anniversary, FIVP is releasing a special episode of its podcast, FIVP Practice Matters, on Tuesday, 7 April.

The episode will see business development manager Ian Wolstenholme interview key members of the FIVP team on the history of the organisation and the future of independent practice. Among the guests will be chairperson Rita Dingwall and FIVP co-founder Jacqui Garrett.

The organisation has also invited independent practices, regardless of FIVP membership, to get involved. It has particularly invited stories about the veterinary care they provide and how they are contributing to their local communities.

Independent practices can submit their stories via WhatsApp by sending a voice note to 07709 836865.

Rita Dingwall said: “Over the past decade, FIVP has been proud to champion the vital role that independent veterinary practices play in communities across the UK. Independent practices bring something truly special to the profession – the freedom to shape their services around the needs of their clients, their team members and the animals in their care.

“Since 2016, our mission has been to ensure that these practices have a strong voice, the right support and a connected community behind them. As the veterinary landscape continues to evolve, that mission is more important than ever.

“We look forward to continuing to stand alongside independent practices, celebrating their achievements and helping to secure a thriving future for independence in the profession.”

Image © FIVP

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
Applications open for BEVA Back in the Saddle

The British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA) has opened applications for its 'Back in the Saddle' coaching programme.

The online scheme offers structured group coaching for members wanting to reflect on their career path and regain clarity. Members may be returning to work after leave, uncertain about next steps or reassessing direction.

Attendees will benefit from impartial guidance and practical tools to support their professional development. Members are encouraged to take a 'proactive, future-focused approach' to their careers.

The sessions, taking place on Wednesdays from 7.30pm-9pm, are open to BEVA members with more than five years' experience. The first session takes place on Wednesday, 3 June 2026.

Applications will close on Wednesday, 27 May 2026.