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Leading scientists honoured for animal welfare work
Professors Sandra Edwards and Jeff Rushen.

Professors Sandra Edwards and Jeff Rushen receive UFAW medal

Two leading scientists have been awarded the
Federation for Animal Welfare (UFAW) Medal for Outstanding Contributions to Animal Welfare Science.

Professors Sandra Edwards and Jeff Rushen received a commemorative medal and award at the UFAW’s International Symposium at Royal Holloway, University of London (27-29 June).

Professor Edwards from the School of Agriculture at Newcastle University is a worldwide expert on pig welfare. Many of the projects she led involved collaborations between government, academia, NGOs and industry. She has also given her expertise to influential policy/advisory committees such as the Farm Animal Welfare Council and European Food Safety Authority.

Professor Rusden of the Dairy Education & Research Centre, University of British Columbia has co-authored the most important books to date on both cattle welfare and stereotypic animal behaviour.

Over the course of his career, Jeff has published more than 300 papers that provide a model of clear thinking and research excellence. Amongst his work has been a series of papers on how people can become an important source of fear for animals - and how this fear can be mitigated to improve human-animal relationships.

UFAW’s Chief Executive Dr Robert Hubrecht, who will be presenting the awards, said: “Professors Jeff Rushen and Sandra Edwards are both world-leading experts in their fields, who have made substantial contributions to our understanding of farm-animal needs and husbandry. They are very worthy winners of the 2017 UFAW medal.”

The UFAW recognises exceptional achievements of individual scientists who have made fundamental contributions to the advancement of animal welfare over several years.  

The award is open to individuals throughout the world whose research, teaching, service and advocacy has significantly benefitted the welfare of animals.

Image (C) UFAW

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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.