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Conference to discuss challenges facing Scotland’s equines
An insight into Britain’s horse crisis will presented by Roly Owers, chief executive of World Horse Welfare.

Event includes a review of the new equine ID regulations

A conference to address the welfare challenges facing equines in Scotland is to be hosted by World Horse Welfare next week.

Taking place on Wednesday, 20 April leading experts and professionals will gather at the organisation’s Belwade Farm Rescue and Rehoming Centre in Aboyne.

Here they will discuss and debate a number of topics, from the risks posed by exotic diseases to issues of identity fraud in the trade of low value equines.

An insight into Britain’s horse crisis will presented by Roly Owers, chief executive of World Horse Welfare.

In his discussion, Mr Owers will look at issues of indiscriminate breeding and its impact on welfare charities.

Other topics under discussion include the issue of horses as athletes and how they compete in sport.

There will also be an update on identity fraud in the trade of low value equines and a review of the practical implications of the new equine ID regulations.

“This welfare conference is an important platform to raise and address the key challenges facing Scotland’s equine population,” commented Mr Owers.

“It’s definitely set to be an interesting and enlightening day so I’d urge anyone with an interest in equine welfare to get their tickets booked and I look forward to seeing many people there.”

The event has been organised by the British Horse Society in association with World Horse Welfare.

All debates and discussions will be chaired by BHS chairman and leading vet professor Derek Knottenbelt OBE.

The Conference is open to all and tickets are priced at £20.00 each. To find out more, please visit: www.bhsscotland.org.uk.

Image (C) World Horse Welfare

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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...
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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.