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New tool launched to improve antimicrobial use
"This will not only help the livestock sectors to achieve their targets, but will result in improvements in animal health" - Fraser Broadfoot, Veterinary Medicines Directorate.
RCVS Knowledge adds tool as Farm Vet Champions programme.

A new goal-setting tool for improving antimicrobial use has been launched by RCVS Knowledge.

The SMART goals tool, available to access for free through the RCVS Knowledge Learn platform, will allow farm veterinary teams to target, track and improve their antimicrobial prescribing. 

Launched as part of the Farm Vet Champions programme, the tool was developed with the team at RCVS Knowledge along with a dedicated steering group from the veterinary and agricultural spheres. 

Fiona Lovatt, Farm Vet Champions clinical lead, commented on the new resource: “I am so excited to see the launch of our SMART goal tool. It is both engaging and simple to use, and I expect it will encourage practice teams to motivate each other to track their progress in their stewardship activities.

“It is such a critical time to ensure we are using antimicrobials responsibly so that they will work when patients really need them. 

“We all have a responsibility to fight antimicrobial resistance. The good news is there is a lot we can do – one of those things is getting involved with Farm Vet Champions, enhancing our skills and adapting our practice.”

Supporting the launch of the SMART goals tool, RCVS Knowledge will run an interactive webinar to allow veterinary teams to learn more about the tool and antimicrobial resistance. This will take place on Zoom at 12.30pm today. (Tuesday 17 May). 

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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.