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VPIS launches new helpline for pet owners
Nicola Robinson said owners will not be advised on treatment, but will be told whether or not they need to see a vet and how urgently.
Triage service Animal PoisonLine introduced at BSAVA Congress
 
The Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS) has announced the official launch of a new helpline for pet owners.

Animal PoisonLine is a triage service that tells owners whether or not a trip to the vets is necessary when their pet has been exposed to something potentially poisonous. It was introduced by VPIS head of service, Nicola Robinson, during a press briefing at BSAVA Congress last week, and opened officially on Monday (10 April).

VPIS first established the helpline as part of a pilot scheme back in September 2016. The line is now available 24 hours a day at a cost of £20 from 8am-8pm Monday to Friday (excluding bank holidays) and £30 outside of these hours.

Nicola Robinson said owners will not be advised on treatment, but will be told whether or not they need to see a vet and how urgently. Experience gained from the pilot suggests that in around 50 per cent of cases, owners will not need to go to their vet.

She said the VPIS had concerns about pet owners using Google to determine if a substance is toxic, and felt that a specific service was needed to provide owners with accurate advice and reassurance. Animal PoisonLine may also help vets to use their VPIS credits more appropriately if owners seek advice from the VPIS first, she added.

Vets should continue to use the normal VPIS number, 0207 3055 055, for poisoning cases and admin enquiries, while owners can be directed to the Animal PoisonLine number, 01202 509 000.

For further information visit: https://vpisglobal.com/2016/08/23/vpis-public-helpline/

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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.