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Positions filled for new SRUC Vet School
Vivienne Mackinnon (C) Scotland's Rural College.
Posts to play vital role in Scottish veterinary education development.

Scotland's Rural College (SRUC) has appointed Vivienne Mackinnon as director of Veterinary Partnerships, with nine other key posts filled in preparation for the development of a new school veterinary medicine.

A veterinary surgeon with more than 20 years of clinical experience, Vivienne is an active member of BVA Scotland and has worked in a number of public and private settings.

Vivienne's role as director of veterinary partnerships will entail developing active links with the profession in order to enable the delivery of clinical training rotations. 

SRUC has also appointed a head of interprofessional education, a veterinary programme director, veterinary lecturers and senior lecturers, all of whom will be overseen by Professor Jim Anderson, the new head of veterinary education.

Professor Caroline Argo, dean of veterinary medicine and head of school, said: “These new foundation posts are vital in supporting our growth agenda in this essential area.

“They are a critical element of the new school’s set-up to support our contribution to the development of Scotland’s natural economy as a driving force behind the promotion of resilience, diversity and sector fit among our veterinary graduates, embedding them in real-world experience and practice from the outset. Vivienne, as Director of Partnerships, is fundamental in providing that experience.

“All of our key appointments to date have shared their excitement in our sense of purpose and mission and we hope to continue that trend with all of our new appointments in the coming months.”

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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.