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RVC and Penn Vet unveil new equine research scholarship
The programme promises an 'unparalled' learning experience for the successful applicant.
Candidates have until 15 March 2022 to apply.

The Royal Veterinary College (RVC), the University of Pennsylvania's School of Veterinary Medicine (Penn Vet) and MARS EQUESTRIAN have collaborated to launch a new international scholarship programme.

Focused on advancing horse health and welfare, the scholarship will provide a unique experience for one aspiring veterinary investigator to research alongside high-renowned veterinary welfare researchers and professionals.

The successful applicant will have the opportunity to gain two advanced credentials, the Graduate Certificate in Animal Welfare and Behaviour at Penn Vet over the course of the first year, and the Master of Research (MRes) programme at the RVC over the course of the second year.

Applicants must hold a veterinary degree (BvetMed/DVM/VMD/BVSc or equivalent), and can be a UK, US or international candidate. The chosen candidate will receive tuition, travel expenses and an annual stipend.

Dr Kyla Ortved from Penn University, who will serve as the primary mentor for the successful applicant's embedded research project, said: “There are two fundamental components to a successful career in the veterinary medicine field: exceptional mentorship and the continuous pursuit of applicable knowledge.

“The multidisciplinary approach of the MARS EQUESTRIAN Veterinary Research Scholar Programme is set to provide both of these cardinal elements through an experiential learning environment that will ultimately culminate in delivering meaningful advancements that will have a very real, positive impact on the lives of our equine partners.”

Professor Richard Bomphrey, interim vice principal for Research at the RVC commented: “I am delighted that the RVC is able to support this new transatlantic initiative for veterinary graduates following a generous donation from MARS EQUESTRIAN.

“It strengthens the ties between the RVC, the University of Pennsylvania and MARS EQUESTRIAN while providing an outstanding training and research opportunity.

“We look forward to welcoming the successful scholar and helping them to make an impact in equine research."

The programme will begin in September 2022 in the United States, and will move to the UK in October 2023. The deadline for submissions is March 15 2022, or until an acceptable candidate is identified. Applications should be sent to Dr Kyla Ortved at kortved@vet.upenn.edu

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

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News Shorts
RCVS pays tribute to well-loved equine vet

The RCVS and the Riding Establishments Subcommittee has paid tribute to well-loved veterinary surgeon and riding establishment inspector, Rebecca Hamilton-Fletcher MRCVS.

Linda Belton MRCVS, RCVS President, said: "I, along with my colleagues on the RESC, RCVS Council, RCVS Standards Committee, as well as RCVS staff, was very saddened to hear of the sudden death of Rebecca, or Becca as we knew her, last week.

"She was a true advocate for equine welfare and in her many years on the RESC worked to continually improve the quality and consistency of riding establishment inspections, all in the interests of enhanced horse welfare and rider safety."