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BSAVA PetSavers announces two new clinical research grants
Applications for funding close on 31 January 2022.
The grants will be jointly funded by SAMSoc and The Debs Foundation.

BSAVA PetSavers has announced new joint-funding for two clinical research projects.

Along with the Small Animal Medicine Society (SAMSoc) and The Debs Foundation, BSAVA PetSavers is offering to jointly fund two new specialist clinical research grants, each offering funding of up to £10,000. 

Funding clinical research which specifically aims to advance understanding of conditions affecting small animals kept as pets, BSAVA PetSavers selects the projects it funds in the hope that the results will have a positive impact on the way in which diseases are diagnosed, managed, and treated in practice. 

The grant with SAMSoc will fund one project on feline and/or canine medical conditions, whilst the grant with The Debs Foundation will fund one project on pain management in companion animals. 

Established in 2003, SAMSoc aims to advance the knowledge of small animal medicine within the UK veterinary profession and public. Research and mentor liaison from SAMsoc, Christopher Scudder, commented on the funding: “We are delighted to be able to offer this opportunity alongside BSAVA PetSavers, and hope that the research during this clinical project can help towards our mission of improving the welfare of cats and dogs affected by medical conditions. 

“This joint funding enables us to help an individual take the next steps in their career, and we are very proud to be part of it.”

The Debs Foundation, set up in memory of veterinary surgeon Debs Gittleston, supports charities which reflect the causes Debs believed in and advocated for, with a particular emphasis on animal welfare and mental health.

One of the trust's founders, and Debs' brother, David Gittleston, commented on the grant: “The Debs Foundation is thrilled to establish a joint grant with PetSavers for clinical research in the specific area of pain management. 

“We have been hugely impressed by the quality, rigour and impact of the research we have supported to date and are delighted to create this new award, which is in a topic that Debs herself wrote a book on for veterinary nurses and technicians.”

Applications for the grant opened on 1 October 2021, and will close of 31 January 2022, and can be made by veterinary practitioners or academics. Joint applications are welcome. 

More information about the grants can be found here

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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.