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Importance of National Equine Health Survey recognised
Image: NHES Household Cavalry

Leading equestrian organisations pledge their support.

A national equine survey organised by the Blue Cross, which aims to record common health issues in horses, has received backing by leading equestrian organisations.

The National Equine Health Survey (NEHS) will be held from 18 - 24 May and will contain questions on equine infectious diseases and include new questions on ragwort, which is causing growing alarm amongst equine health and welfare organisations.

Major equestrian organisations, including the ABRS, BEF, BETA, BHS, BSJA, Equestrian Needs, HAPPA, Horses4Homes, Horse Trust, LANTRA, Mare and Foal Sanctuary, NEWC, Pet ID Equine, Redwings Horse Sanctuary, Rossdales, RSPCA, SWHP, TBA, WHW and WPCS, have voiced their support for the NEHS.

The results of the national survey will help build a picture of the health and disease in the UK and define priorities for future research, training and education. The new questions have been devised to help to find out more about yard biosecurity measures and the potential risks associated with horses being purchased from Europe.

Gemma Taylor, Education Officer at Blue Cross said: “This year the NEHS is more even important than ever, which is reflected by the fact that so many of our major equestrian bodies and charities have already signed up to take part. It’s only with help from all of you that we can make NEHS bigger and more valuable than ever. Please spare just five minutes to complete the survey so we can continue to build our knowledge to help improve the future health of our nation’s horses.”

All owners and keepers of horses are being urged to participate in the NEHS, click here for more information.

 

 

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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
RCVS annual renewal fee for vets due

RCVS' annual renewal fee for veterinary surgeons is now due. Vets must pay their renewal fee before Wednesday, 1 April 2026.

This year's standard annual fee has increased to 431 from last year's 418. This is an approximately three per cent increase, as approved by RCVS Council and the Privy Council.

Tshidi Gardner, RCVS treasurer, said: "The small fee increase will be used to help deliver both our everyday activities and our new ambitious Strategic Plan, which includes aims such as achieving new legislation, reviewing the Codes of Professional Conduct and supporting guidance, and continuing to support the professions through activities such as the Mind Matters Initiative, RCVS Academy and career development."

A full breakdown of the new fees is on the RCVS website. Information about tax relief is available on the UK government website.