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RVC professor wins animal research award
Professor Wells recieved the honour at the annual Openess Awards in London.

Dominic Wells awarded for ‘outstanding contribution to openness’

RVC Professor Dominic Wells has been presented with a prestigious award for ‘outstanding contribution to openness in animal research’.

Professor Wells received the honour at the annual Openness Awards in London on Tuesday (3 December), hosted by Understanding Animal Research (UAR). The “UAR Individual Award” was given to Dominic Wells in recognition of his ‘outstanding’ work within the sector to promote the responsible use of animals.

Professor Wells said: “I am absolutely delighted to have received this award from Understanding Animal Research and am grateful for the support I have received from the RVC. My contribution to the sector stems from a true passion for animal research and it is an honour to be recognised in this way.”

Professor Wells was nominated for his numerous contributions to the UAR, including regular discussions with the media, MPs and other stakeholders on the use of animals in research. His nominators also praised his roles as chair of the Animal Sciences Group at the Royal Society of Biology, and co-chair of the UK Bioscience Sector Coalition.

The UAR Openness Awards celebrate the achievements of the sector in honouring their commitment to the Concordat on Openness on Animal Research. The awards seek to recognise those who have championed openness on animal research over the years and continue to do so.

This year, the UAR Individual Award was also presented to Val Summers from the Laboratory Animal Science Association. In a Tweet, Understanding Animal Research praised Ms Summers ‘for going ‘above and beyond in her work, ensuring that public and media engagement around #animalresearch is at the top of the agenda.’

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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.