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UAE endurance suspension lifted
hoof
The UAE National Federation was suspended earlier this year amid concerns over horse welfare.
Agreement signed to ensure horse welfare is respected
 
The Emirates Equestrian Federation (EEF) has signed an agreement to ensure horse welfare will be respected and rules strictly enforced at endurance events. As a result, the FEI Bureau has agreed to lift its suspension.

EEF is the governing body of equestrian sports in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Earlier this year, the federation was provisionally suspended by the FEI Bureau, following an investigation into major horse welfare issues and non-compliance with FEI rules and regulations in the discipline of endurance.

It was revealed yesterday (27 July) that the bureau has unanimously agreed to reinstate the UAE National Federation to full membership of the FEI - the international governing body for Olympic equestrian sport.

A legally binding agreement has been signed by the EEF and FEI, offering a guarantee that horse welfare will be respected and that rules will be enforced at endurance events in the UAE.

Among other terms, EEF must ensure that:
  • Protocols are put in place to avoid equine fatalities
  • Applicable rest periods are respected
  • Horses on rest periods are blocked from entry in national events (the FEI system already blocks entries in international events)
  • Use of prohibited fluid administration and any substances prohibited under the FEI Equine Anti-Doping and Controlled Medication Regulations (EADCMRs) in and around the Field of Play and at the Vet Gate is prevented
Commenting on the agreement, FEI's secretary general Sabrina Zeender, said: "We are very pleased that, after four months of very hard work, the United Arab Emirates have demonstrated with the signature of this agreement that they are fully committed to ensuring horse welfare and complying with FEI rules at both international and national level in the country."

EEF's secretary general, Taleb Dhaher Al Mheiri, said the federation will continue to work with the FEI to ensure the requirements are applied. "It is our goal to pursue excellence while promoting the growth of the sport and safeguarding the welfare of equine and human athletes," he added.

For more information on the agreement, see http://www.fei.org/news/uae-national-federation-suspension-lifted-fei-bureau-following-signature-agreement

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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.