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VetPartners announces expansion into Ireland
VetPartners has acquired Westgate Veterinary Hospital in Drogheda.
The York-based group also owns practices across Europe.

VetPartners has announced the acquisition of a practice in the Republic of Ireland as part of its continued expansion.

The York-based group has purchased Westgate Veterinary Hospital in Drogheda, which cares for small and large animals in the counties of Louth and Meath. 

Established in the mid-'80s, Westgate has a team of 35 vets, vet nurses, receptionists and admin. In 2002, the practice opened a second site in Laytown.

The owners of Westgate, John Russell, Simon Rath and William Burgess, will remain as clinical directors.

VetPartners first expanded into mainland Europe in 2019 and currently owns practices in Italy, France, Switzerland, Germany and Spain.

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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.