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National SQP Week toolkit launched
Stakeholders are urged to plan ahead for National SQP Week from 5-12 June 2026.
The inaugural campaign takes place in June 2026.

A new toolkit has been launched to help employers and stakeholders to celebrate the work of Suitably Qualified Persons (SQPs).

It has been released ahead of the inaugural National SQP Week, which is set to take place from 5-12 June 2026.

The campaign is intended to celebrate the ‘professionalism, expertise and public-facing role' of the SQP. It hopes to improve understanding of the training, qualification and regulation underpinning their daily work.

It was inspired by research from the Animal Medicines Training Regulatory Authority (AMTRA), a not-for-profit organisation which supports the future of the SQP profession, which suggested a need for increased awareness of SQPs’ work.

According to AMTRA’s survey, only 48 per cent of animal owner respondents knew that SQPs had to be both qualified and regulated. Meanwhile 92 per cent of SQPs felt there should be more understanding of the profession across the industry.

AMTRA collaborated with other SQP regulators, Vetpol and VetSkill, to create the campaign toolkit.

The organisations have created a variety of in-practice resources for promoting SQPs, as well as social and digital communications assets. This includes downloadable materials, practical activation ideas and guidance for building engagement across different settings.

AMTRA is encouraging stakeholders to begin planning early ahead of the national week in June.

Stephen Dawson, CEO of AMTRA, said: “National SQP Week is an important opportunity to shine a light on the SQP profession in a way that hasn’t been done before. SQPs are thoroughly trained animal medicines advisors who prescribe and supply a range of animal medicines and provide appropriate advice to millions of owners every year, ensuring animals get the right treatments safely and responsibly. This is a role that rightly deserves to be celebrated for the positive impact it has on animal wellbeing. 
 
“The campaign aims to highlight not only the positive contribution SQPs make to animal health and welfare, but also the depth of knowledge and expertise they bring to the livestock, companion animal and equine sectors.”

Download the toolkit here.

Image © AMTRA/National SQP Week

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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...
News Shorts
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.