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Volunteer dubbed 'London's greatest pet lover'
Phyllis and her dogs
Phyllis and her two dogs Troy and Maddie.

PDSA fundraiser honoured for 50 years of work

A devoted PDSA volunteer from Sydenham, who has dedicated 50 years of her life to fundraise for the veterinary charity, has been hailed London's 'greatest pet lover' at a special presentation in Croydon.

Phyllis Seymour, who chairs the Croydon Guild PDSA fundraising group, has raised funds at a wide variety of events, such as dog shows, sponsored walks and animal blessings. During her time as chair, it's estimated that the group has collectively raised around £250,000 for PDSA's vets and nurses to provide lifesaving veterinary care to sick and injured pets.

The milestone anniversary was marked with a presentation held at Croydon PDSA Pet Hospital where Phyllis received her Length of Service certificate and badge from Jan McLoughlin, PDSA's director general.

Speaking at the presentation John Smith, PDSA chairman, said: “Volunteers are the life blood that runs through PDSA. Each one is special; but there are some outstanding individuals, one of whom is Phyllis Seymour.

“Phyllis is a fantastic ambassador for PDSA. She has made such an incredible contribution to the charity, and her loyalty and dedication continues to be very much appreciated by everyone in the organisation – and by the pets that she helps PDSA to treat with those vital funds raised."

Commenting on her achievements, Phyllis said: "Over the years I’ve got to know the vets and nurses at Croydon Pet Hospital and have seen the great work they do. They are such a dedicated team. Knowing that the funds raised over the past 50 years have helped so many pets gives me a great feeling and I’m absolutely honoured to be recognised in this way.”

Image (C) PDSA

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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.