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BSAVA PetSavers shares ongoing Clinical Research Projects
The aim of the grants is to undertake a small-scale clinical research project in companion animals.
In 2022, the organisation awarded over £38,000 to researchers.

The British Small Animal Veterinary Association (BSAVA) PetSavers has shared some of the research projects it helped to fund over the past year.

In 2022, the organisation awarded over £38,000 to five Clinical Research Projects (CRPs), in order to further understanding of clinical disorders in companion animals – exploring the causes and management of these.

One ongoing research project that BSAVA PetSavers is supporting aims to identify a biomarker that can be measured in synovial fluid to differentiate between immune-mediated polyarthritis, septic arthritis and osteoarthritis in dogs. 

Carried out by Sebastian Griffin, the study aims to contribute to the evidence base around degenerative joint disease and canine arthritides.

Dr Silke Salavati, from the University of Edinburgh, received £9409.36 for a project assessing the effect of mannose on canine chronic inflammatory enteropathy (CIE). 

'Reusable vs disposable drapes: does their use affect post-operative wound complication rates in routine surgeries', carried out by Hannah James, has received a grant from BSAVA PetSavers to provide evidence on whether reusable or disposable drapes are better for patient outcomes.

Sophie Wyatt, from the Royal Veterinary College received £7566 to explore the association between possible hypercoagulable state and stroke cases in dogs. In understanding the underlying causes, the results of the study hope to offer insight into specific therapeutic options for patient outcome.

BSAVA PetSavers, with a £5,000 contribution from The Debs Foundation, awarded £10,000 to Chiara Adami, for a project on the effectiveness of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) in treating osteroarthritis-associated pain in dogs. 

If the study finds that LLLT is effective in treating OA-associated pain in dogs, the treatment could have a significant effect on improving pain management and quality of life for dogs worldwide.

The next round of BSAVA PetSavers CRP funding is now open for applications, and will close on 31 January 2023. Further information can be found on the BSAVA website.

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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.