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RSPCA and Blue Cross announce partnership to help more animals in need
"We are keen to build strong relationships with charities across the sector so we can [help] the animals which need us." Chris Sherwood, RSPCA CEO.

Charities to work together on a range of new initiatives

Leading animal charities Blue Cross and RSPCA have announced that they will be working more closely together in order to help more pets in need across England and Wales.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a substantial impact on the resources and finances of thousands of charities and organisations across the country.

The two charities have agreed to collaborate more moving forward to help save funds, share resources and have as big of an impact as possible on animals.

Areas that RSPCA and Blue Cross are aiming to partner in include purchasing and supplies – where savings can be made and supply chains secured – as well as in transport of animals and in behaviour services. This, according to the charities, will help keep funds in the animal sector, as well as reducing impact on the environment.

Blue Cross CEO, Chris Burghes, said: “We are pleased to share the news of our intentions of several areas to partner on with the RSPCA. It feels that we are on the cusp of something truly exciting to reach more pets, and the people they share their lives with.

“There is much natural alignment in both our strategies and in areas of the country where we both have a presence, there is opportunity for strong working collaboration for an even greater impact for animals and communities.”

RSPCA CEO, Chris Sherwood, said: “The RSPCA is excited to be exploring practical ways we can work with Blue Cross to help us work smarter and better at this difficult time for charities and for animals.

“We are keen to build strong relationships with charities across the sector so we can all collectively focus our efforts on helping the animals which need us. Strengthening partnerships is central to our new strategy.”

Images (c) Blue Cross.

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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.