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Scottish SPCA issues urgent appeal for blankets
The Scottish SPCA has been unable to accept used blankets owing to the contamination risk of COVID-19.
Charity 'struggling to keep up with demand'.

The Scottish SPCA (SSPCA) has issued an urgent appeal for blankets for animals in their Lanarkshire and Aberdeenshire Animal Rescue and Rehoming Centres.

The animal welfare charity says that it has been unable to accept used or knitted soft furnishings owing to the links associated with COVID-19. The charity's Lanarkshire centre has already cared for some 600 animals this year, and the Aberdeenshire Centre has looked after more than 500.

“We’re struggling to keep up with the demand for blankets at the moment,” said Lanarkshire centre manager, Gillian Boyle. “Normally we have lots of donations of second-hand blankets, towels and sheets coming in but because our centre is closed to the public due to the coronavirus crisis we’ve been unable to accept these like we normally would."

She added that the charity was only able to access brand new items due to the potential risk of contamination form items that are used.

“We ask that people do not donate duvets or pillows as we find our animals can easily tear these apart. We’re also in need of cleaning cloths for our cattery as we use around 30 of these a day and cat litter as we’re down to our last five bags."

Donations can be sent via Amazon Wishlist to Lanarkshire at https://amzn.to/30I4baX and Aberdeenshire at https://amzn.to/2XVL9Mt

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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...
News Shorts
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.