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80 per cent of vets saw cases of chocolate poisoning during Easter 2019
"As we are all spending more time indoors, it is worth remembering to not leave treats lying around." Daniella Dos Santos, BVA.

BVA urges pet owners to be mindful of hazards during Easter break.

The BVA has issued a warning to pet owners ahead of the Easter weekend; reminding them to keep chocolate out of reach of pets in order to avoid cases chocolate poisoning.

The Association's recent Voice of the Veterinary Profession survey revealed that 80 per cent of veterinary professionals working in companion animal practice saw at least one case of chocolate poisoning in the lead up to Easter 2019. More than half (54 per cent) of respondents had seen three or more cases in this period.

Veterinary practices typically see an increase in cases of chocolate poisoning around Christmas and Easter. But, with COVID-19 restrictions leading to more people spending time at home together, the BVA says that there is an increased risk with sweets and chocolate being more easily accessible to animals.

The Association also reminded pet owners to be mindful of the dangers of raisins and sultanas, found in hot cross buns and simnel cakes.

BVA senior vice president, Daniella Dos Santos said: “Many of us will be looking forward to indulging over the long Easter weekend, but keep any sweet treats out of reach of curious pets.

“As we are all currently spending more time indoors, it is worth remembering to not leave treats lying around. Cats and other pets may be less inclined to sniff out and eat chocolate than dogs, but they can also suffer with chocolate poisoning.”

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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. 

Click here for more...
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.