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RVNs campaign against breed specific legislation
Both Shakira and Gemma work within the charity sector and say they have experienced the "depressing reality" of BSL.

Calls for vets and nurses to take part in protest
 
Two veterinary nurses have launched a campaign to tackle breed specific legislation (BSL), which bans types of dogs based on their physical appearance under the Dangerous Dogs Act.

Shakira Free Miles and Gemma Plumer are urging veterinary surgeons and nurses to join them at a peaceful protest this Saturday (11 July).

Organised by DDA Watch, the protest will be held in Westminster, London from 2-6pm.

Both Shakira and Gemma work within the charity sector and say they have experienced the "depressing reality" of BSL.

"As veterinary nurses our job entails holding that innocent dog for euthanasia, and the veterinary surgeons to give the lethal injection.

"We believe this is wrong and we would like to see an end to breed discrimination. This law penalises responsible owners and healthy innocent dogs.
 
"Our new campaign is to spread awareness about BSL within our veterinary community and to stand together and put an end to this law that is not working.

"We are in a desirable position to do something as veterinary nurses, this is our time and our opportunity to really change things. We have the drive and a voice to end BSL and hope to have the support of our veterinary community."

Shakira and Gemma say their campaign is getting evermore support on Twitter and an official government e-petition is on the horizon. They hope to debate BSL in the House of Commons if they get the required 100,000 signatures.

Commenting on this week's protest, Shakira and Gemma said: "We would love as many vets and veterinary nurses to join us in their uniform to represent veterinary professionals and offer their support to our campaign."

You can get in touch by email: saveabulls@gmail.com, Twitter: @SaveABulls, or Facebook: SaveABulls
 

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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.