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Blue Cross launches Big Pet Census
The Big Pet Census will help to shape the support Blue Cross offers to pets and owners.

The charity is urging pet owners to take part. 

National animal welfare charity Blue Cross is encouraging pet owners to take part in its Big Pet Census, marking the organisation's 125th anniversary.

The census, taking the form of an online survey, will help Blue Cross to learn more about the UK's pets, and the human-animal bond. 

Questions asked on the census include how owners show their pets love, and how pets demonstrate reciprocal love. Participants are also asked about their views on the UK pet industry, what welfare they provide for their pets, and whether they feel that their pet was a support to them during the COVID-19 pandemic, among other topics.

The results of the census will be used by the charity to shape and inform the support it offers to pets and families, and will be shared publicly for a wider understanding of the UK's 34 million pets, and the roles they play in their owners' lives. 

Encouraging pet owners to complete the census, Chris Burghes, CEO at Blue Cross, said: “We are really proud to have changed millions of lives in our 125-year history but the need for our help is growing all the time.

“No one knows your pet quite like you do and now you can share your knowledge to help make this an even better world for pets and the people who love them by taking part in our Big Pet Census. 

“Your responses to the census will help us learn as much as possible about pet ownership to inform our work to improve pet welfare and support people.”

To find out more about why the Blue Cross is holding The Big Pet Census 2022, or to fill in the census, visit the Blue Cross website here.  

 

Image (C) Blue Cross

 

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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...
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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.