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New welfare codes for laying hens welcomed
The code encourages owners and keepers to use local and national sources of disease surveillance.
Codes highlight benefit of veterinary surveillance systems 

Veterinary organisations have welcomed a new welfare code for laying hens, which was laid before parliament this week (5 June).

The new Code of Practice for the Welfare of Laying Hens and Pullets is one of a series of welfare codes being reviewed and updated by Defra.

It has been welcomed by the BVA, British Veterinary Poultry Association and the Veterinary Public Health Association.

BVA president John Fishwick said the association is “delighted” to see the benefit of veterinary surveillance systems highlighted. The code encourages owners and keepers to use local and national sources of disease surveillance to improve their understanding of poultry disease patterns and the “local health and welfare landscape”.

He added: “We are also pleased to see signposting within the Code of Practice to the Humane Slaughter Association’s Code of Practice for the Disposal of Chicks in Hatcheries, which outlines in detail information about humane methods of killing and good practice.
 
“The British poultry industry has some of the highest welfare standards in the world and the veterinary profession is fully committed to working with Defra on further enhancing animal welfare codes to reflect best industry practice.”
 

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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. 

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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.