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SPANA rebrands as Working Animals International
The new brand followed consultation with the charity's stakeholders.
Charity says new identity is ‘clearer’ and ‘more recognisable’.

The animal welfare charity SPANA has now rebranded as Working Animals International.

The charity, which has been supporting working animals since 1923, says that its new name ‘more clearly reflects its global mission’.

Working Animals International’s new branding was the result of extensive consultation, engaging supporters, donors, colleagues and partners across multiple countries. It is intended to better reflect the organisation’s impact, including its work with partnerships, policy influence and the lives of working animals.

To celebrate its brand launch, Working Animals International is hosting a photography exhibition, Impossible to Overlook, at the FUJIFILM House of Photography from 22 to 26 April. The exhibition will highlight the essential role of working animals around the world, with photography from Harsha Vadlamani, Maheder Haileselassie and more.

The charity began its work in North Africa, before expanding to the Middle East, Asia, Africa and Latin America. For many communities, working animals help them to earn a living and support their families.

As SPANA, the organisation increased access to veterinary care, taught owners how to care for animals and campaigned for policy change.

Linda Edwards, chief executive at Working Animals International, said: “We are proud to launch our new name and brand. Our mission remains the same, but our new identity makes it clearer, more recognisable and easier for people to engage with and support.

“With a stronger voice, we are working towards a world where working animals are properly valued and cared for. When they thrive, so do the communities who depend on them every day - for income, for food, and for access to essential services like getting to school or to hospital.”

She added: “This marks an important moment in our history. For more than a century, we have combined practical expertise with compassion to support working animals and the communities who depend on them, and that work continues to grow.

“As climate pressures and economic uncertainty grow, working animals and the communities who rely on them are under increasing strain. We must be in the strongest possible position to support them, and this new identity allows us to do exactly that.”

Image © Working Animals International 
Image © Aylen20/Shutterstock

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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.