Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.

Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

RSPCA discourages DIY firework displays
The charity is urging the public to make fireworks less frightening for animals.
Charity urges public to consider animals in plans. 

The RSPCA is urging the public to take animals into consideration when thinking about planning a DIY fireworks display, with major displays across the country reportedly cancelled.

New statistics shared by the charity have shown that almost two-thirds (63 per cent) of pet owners surveyed said that their pet appeared distressed during firework season.

Following last year's release of the RSPCA's online reporting form about the impact of fireworks on their animals, the platform has received 11,785 responses – highlighting the severity and widespread nature of the issue.

RSPCA campaigns manager Carrie Stones said: “We fear that there will now be lots of little displays taking place over weeks and weeks, spreading out fireworks noise and causing prolonged distress for animals across a larger area.

“We’d urge people to be considerate and keep neighbours with animals, including those with nearby horses and other livestock, informed of plans well in advance so they can make preparations to reduce the stress to their animals.

“Equally lower-noise fireworks can make such a difference to make displays safer for everybody."

The charity is also reminding the public that fireworks can also seriously impact wildlife, with animals such as hedgehogs at risk of being burnt alive after making homes inside bonfires, and birds who flee their nests due to noise disturbance.

For people who wish to get involved with the RSPCA's #BangOutOfOrder campaign, futher information can be found on the RSPCA website

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

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. 

Click here for more...
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.