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Plan to reform endurance riding in UAE
horse
FEI Bureau will vote on the lifting of UAE's suspension once satisfied horse welfare will be ensured and FEI rules and regulations enforced.
FEI welcomes proposals following horse welfare concerns

Proposals to reform endurance riding in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) following serious horse welfare concerns have been welcomed by FEI, the international governing body for equestrian sports.

While the proposals are "a very good start", more work still needs to be done before the FEI Bureau can consider lifting the UAE's suspension.

FEI enforced a provisional suspension in March this year following an investigation into serious horse welfare issues and non-compliance with FEI rules and regulations.

Commenting on the proposals for reform, FEI president Ingmar De Vos said: "We welcome the proposed agreement of the UAE and see it as a very positive development that they are working to come to a solution."

A 10-page document proposing reforms was submitted by the Emirates Equestrian Federation (EEF) last week (5 June).

Proposals include:
  • Creating an EEF endurance committee of enquiry to oversee the application of the rules
  • Involving the national Olympic and anti-doping committees
  • Training and educating athletes, trainers, owners and officials
  • Possible banning of organisers for non-compliance with the rules
  • Ensuring EEF national rules comply with FEI rules and regulations
  • Working more closely with FEI, including welcoming FEI observers to EEF national events
  • Cooperating with the inquiry into duplication of results at a number of UAE events
It is accepted in the EEF's proposals that any breach of the above could result in the suspension being reinstated and the 2016 FEI World Endurance Championships being withdrawn.

The UAE has also implemented new legislation that prohibits the trade or use of banned substances in horse racing and other sports.

After discussing these proposals in detail, the FEI Bureau agreed to work with the EEF to finalise the agreement, including seeking more concrete information on the proposals.

When the bureau is satisfied that horse welfare will be ensured, FEI rules and regulations will be enforced and pending issues have been dealt with, it will vote on the lifting of the suspension.

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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.