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Survey to gauge cost of living impact on horse owners
“We want to establish how those of us who care for horses are dealing with the current economic climate" - Carolyn Madgwick, NEWC.

The findings will enable the NEWC to better support equine owners. 

Horse owners are being asked how they're coping with the cost-of-living crisis in a new survey.

Launched on Wednesday (21 December), the research is being undertaken on behalf of the National Equine Welfare Council (NEWC) by Redwings Horse Sanctuary, World Horse Welfare, Blue Cross, The British Horse Society, Oak Tree Animal Sanctuary and the British Farrier and Blacksmith Association.

NEWC chair Carolyn Madgwick said: “We want to establish how those of us who care for horses are dealing with the current economic climate. 

“The questions being asked include things like ‘what changes, if any, have you seen in horse care costs in the last year’ and ‘what changes have you made, or are considering, to save money?’.”

Feedback from the survey will be used to produce a report that will be shared with the public and, where relevant, the UK Government, Devolved Administrations and local authorities. The findings will also enable the NEWC to develop and publish guidance and advice to support those caring for horses across the UK. 

“The survey should take no longer than 20 minutes to complete, please do fill it in if you can and help us to understand how we might be able to help you,” Carolyn added.

The survey is available here and wil remain open until 31 January, 2023.

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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...
News Shorts
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.