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

Details revealed ahead of National Pet Month 2023
"We want pet owners to know there is help available" – Nicole Paley.
April campaign to focus on responsible care on a budget.

The theme for this year's National Pet Month (NPM) campaign is supporting pet owners feeling the pinch, as the cost of living crisis continues.

Taking place from 1 April to 1 May, the campaign will provide practical support for pet owners and carers, sharing tips on how to meet animals' welfare needs, while being responsibly in budget.

Over the course of the month, NPM will broadcast live sessions for pet owners and carers, covering topics such as pet nutrition, the importance of regular health checks, vaccinations, dental health and cleaning up after pets, led by pet and veterinary professionals.

Nicole Paley, from NPM, commented: “Post pandemic, it's a challenging time for many caring for animals, so it's important that now, more than ever, National Pet Month offers good, practical support and advice pet owners.”

Other topics that will be considered over NPM include puppy and kitten training, creating a dog friendly office, looking out for changes in pet behaviour, the benefits of taking on an older rescue animal and being a sustainable pet owner, with much more in the works. 

Nicole continued: “Although we recognise a pet is part of our family, some owners have had to make the hardest of decisions to give up a pet for adoption with many pets finding themselves back at rescue or suffering from separation issues as people have gone back to the office.

“With this in mind, we want pet owners to know there is help available and encourage them to seek support from pet organisations before taking this difficult step.

“Sometimes just one conversation with a vet or pet professional can make a positive difference for you and your animal companion. There's a lot of advice out there; no-one needs to feel on their own.

“By joining National Pet Month 2023 we can all work together to care for our pets responsibly.”

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

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.