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CPD to help vets deal with suspected abuse cases
Three sessions have been organised across the UK in 2019.

Sessions offer advice on establishing a practice protocol

A new CPD course for veterinary professionals has been launched to provide advice on coping with cases of suspected animal abuse.

Organised by the BSAVA and the Links Group, the Links Veterinary Training Initiative comes in response to increasing research showing a link between violence to animals and violence towards humans.

“Suspecting animal abuse can be an alarming and sensitive issue to confront but our training courses should give veterinary teams the skills and support they need to help deal with such cases,” said Jennie Bartholomew, education coordinator at the BSAVA.

Each session offers advice on establishing a practice protocol and selecting a Safeguarding Liaison Officer (SLO), who will assist practice staff in suspected abuse cases. Through the SLO, relationships can be formed with RSPCA officers, police domestic abuse officers and aid agencies, giving staff support to call on if they suspect something might not be right.
 
Past BSAVA president and course lecturer Freda Scott-Park said: “There are few veterinary practices that do not encounter animal abuse, not daily, but the incidence is increasing. Cases can be quite complicated to diagnose but often vets find they develop a sixth sense that something isn’t right. 

“By defining the complexities and difficulties in diagnosis, the course aids vets, veterinary nurses and receptionists to understand how to proceed – to ask the right questions and how to seek help from the correct people. Information from the veterinary practices may allow human healthcare professionals to investigate troubled households, offering support to the family and potentially improving or saving a human victim’s life.”

Three sessions have been organised across the UK in 2019. They are free for BSAVA members and cost £40.00 for non-members.

  • Wetherby Racecourse, Yorkshire - Sunday, 12th June
  • Woodrow House, Gloucester - Monday, 16 September
  • Jesus College, Cambridge - Sunday, 27 October


For more information and to book your place visit www.bsava.com/cpd/Links-Group-CPD
 

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SPVS and FIVP launch VSA survey

News Story 1
 SPVS and FIVP have collaborated to launch a short survey about the proposed reform of the Veterinary Surgeons Act.

The survey will ensure that each organisation's submission accurately represents the experiences of practising veterinary professionals. It will also explore awareness, use and perceived value of the roles undertaken by the RCVS.

It takes around 5-10 minutes to complete, and all responses are anonymous. The survey can be completed here until Thursday, 19 March 2026. 

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.