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Nominations open for International Canine Health Awards 2021
The awards are organised by the Kennel Club Charitable Trust.
Awards recognise individuals dedicated to the improvement of dog health through science. 

Nominations are now open for the International Canine Health Awards 2021.

Now in its ninth year, the prestigious awards recognise and celebrate some of the world's finest researchers, veterinary surgeons and students dedicated to the improvement of dog health through science. 

Organised by the Kennel Club Charitable Trust (KCCT), the awards include substantial monetary prizes donated by the founders of Metro Bank.

The four awards are:

  • International Prize in Canine Health – for outstanding contributions in the field of canine health and welfare, with a prize of £40,000 towards future projects. 
  • Lifetime Achievement Award – with a £10,000 prize, this award will go to a veterinarian or scientist working in a related discipline, who has dedicated much of their career to advancing the health and welfare of dogs. 
  • UK Student Inspiration Awards – these comprise postgraduate and undergraduate awards, with prizes of £10,000 and £5,000 respectively to aid further education costs, the development of their careers, or the creation/continuation of a project. 
  • UK Breed Health Coordinator Award – with a £5,000 prize, judges will be looking for individuals from UK Kennel Club breed clubs or councils who have demonstrated a dedication to supporting health and welfare within their breed over the previous year. 
     
“The International Canine Health Awards recognise and commend the commitment shown by researchers, veterinarians, and students dedicated to the improvement of dog health through science,” commented Dr Andrew Higgins, chairman of the judging panel and Kennel Club Charitable Trust. 

“We are also delighted to recognise the amazing work of our UK breed health coordinators who do such a good job supporting health and welfare programmes within breeds.”

The winner of last year's International Award was Professor Dr Tosso Leeb, who was recognised for his expertise in veterinary molecular genetics, leading to the formation of a world-class canine genetics research program in Bern, Switzerland. The Lifetime Achievement Award went to Professor Dr Urs Giger for his work spanning four decades dedicated to the study of clinical haematology in dogs, hereditary diseases and transfusions medicine.

To submit a nomination, visit the Kennel Club Charitable Trust website and fill in the application form by 31 Jan 2021. Individuals are encouraged to nominate their colleagues worldwide for the International and Lifetime awards, but they may also nominate themselves. 

The award ceremony will take place in May/June 2021, but owing to the current COVID-19 situation a date and venue is not yet confirmed.

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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.