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Infectious disease specialist to deliver BVA keynote speech
The keynote will discuss sustainability and its broader impacts on UK food safety.

Professor Joe Brownlie will discuss the importance of sustainability in the profession.

Infectious disease specialist Professor Joe Brownlie CBE has been announced as the keynote speaker for the British Veterinary Association (BVA) Members' Day.

Professor Brownlie, who is Emeritus Professor of Veterinary Pathology with the Royal Veterinary College, will deliver a speech entitled 'The Veterinary profession – how sustainable is our future?’

The keynote will discuss the importance of sustainability in the profession and its broader impacts on UK food safety. How members of the profession can contribute to safeguard against such risks, now and in the future, will also go under the spotlight. 

Professor Brownlie said: “I am honoured to be asked by our wonderful President Justine, to give the Keynote speech on our BVA Members’ Day. The subject of sustainability is both hugely important and vast in scope. In my short address, I will look at our future opportunities, responsibilities and capability to control infectious diseases.” 

BVA president Justine Shotton said: “Professor Brownlie’s vital work in the field of infectious disease research is an inspiration and it’s a real privilege to welcome him as the keynote speaker at this year’s BVA Members’ Day.

“I’m passionate about sustainability, which has been the focus of my presidential year, and so I’m particularly looking forward to hearing his perspective on the role the veterinary profession in driving forward positive change. This is sure to be a highlight for many attendees.”

Professor Brownlie is also Director of the Southern African Centre Infectious Diseases and Surveillance. A graduate of Bristol Veterinary School, his 50+ year career has been mostly devoted to investigating infectious diseases, particularly Bovine Viral Diarrhoea (BVD). Hiw work has been essential in the creation of the BVD vaccine.


Taking place on Thursday, 29 September at Clare College, Cambridge, BVA Members' Day celebrates the achievements of the veterinary profession and includes a prestigious awards ceremony. The awards celebrate the various ways BVA members contibute to the advancement of the profession. 

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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.