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New research project aims to use AI to identify sick livestock
The study will combine artificial intelligence with behavioural analytics to provide insight into animal health.

'Cutting-edge' technology to reduce environmental impact of farming

New research which will use artificial intelligence to help improve the welfare of livestock and provide cost savings for farmers across the UK has been launched.

The research will be led by AI firm Quant Foundry, the University of Bristol Vet School and Agri-EPI Centre. The project will use novel artificial intelligence methods and behavioural analytics to provide fast, reliable insights into animal health for UK farmers.

The collaborative team aims to produce a new cost-effective solution for farmers and veterinary professionals to identify illness in livestock. Helping to provide cost savings and reduce the environmental impact of farming.

Dr Chris Cormack, managing director at Quant Foundry, said: "In conjunction with our research partners, Bristol Veterinary School and Agri-EPI, the study of behavioural analytics in animals will open up a new era in artificial intelligence driven solutions for farmers.

“We have great hopes that not only can we help farmers provide improved care for their livestock but also help reduce their economic costs and their environmental impact."

Professor Andrew Dowsey, chair in Population Health Data Science at Bristol Veterinary School, added: "This collaboration is a fantastic opportunity to translate cutting-edge artificial intelligence approaches to build upon the UK’s high standards in cattle welfare and support farmers in our targets for net-zero emissions."

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Equine Disease Surveillance report released for Q4 2025

News Story 1
 The latest Equine Disease Surveillance report has been released, with details on equine disease from Q4 of 2025.

The report, produced by Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance, includes advice on rule changes for equine influenza vaccination.

Statistics and maps detail recent outbreaks of equine herpes virus, equine influenza, equine strangles and equine grass sickness. A series of laboratory reports provides data on virology, bacteriology, parasitology and toxicosis.

This issue also features a case study of orthoflavivus-associated neurological disease in a horse in the UK. 

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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.