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WSAVA Vaccination Guidelines Group names new chair
Dr Squires has been actively involved in the creation of the VGG's global guidelines.

Dr Richard Squires will head up the group’s work to promote best practice vaccination.

James Cook University Professor Richard Squires has been appointed chair of the WSAVA’s Vaccination Guidelines Group (VGG).

Dr Squires will head up the VGG team, providing evidence-based scientific advice to the global veterinary profession on best practice vaccination. He succeeds Emeritus Professor Michael Day, who chaired the VGG from 2009 until March 2020.

“Thanks to Michael Day’s exceptional leadership, VGG Guidelines are transforming vaccination practice and, in so doing, supporting the welfare of millions of companion animals around the world,” commented Dr Shane Ryan, WSAVA President. “We are delighted to welcome Richard to his new role of VGG Chair and look forward to working with him and the rest of the VGG team in the months ahead.”

A graduate of the University of Bristol, Dr Squires worked in general practice before undertaking postgraduate clinical training at the Universities of Cambridge and Pennsylvania and research training at Glasgow. He holds a PhD for research in which he sought a retroviral aetiology for canine lymphoma.

He held faculty positions at the Universities of Liverpool, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and Massey University before joining James Cook University in 2007.  He is a Diplomate of both the American and European Colleges of Veterinary Internal Medicine and holds the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons’ Diploma in Veterinary Radiology.

Dr Squires has been actively involved in the creation of the VGG's Global Guidelines and its more recent Regional Guidelines. Commenting on his appoitnment, Dr Squires said:

“I am delighted and honoured to have been asked to continue Michael Day's outstanding work as Chair of the WSAVA VGG. I look forward to working with the WSAVA leadership, with VGG members and with our partner MSD Animal Health on the next phase of our work.”

Image (C) WSAVA.

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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.