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Webinars announced on young people and animal abuse
The webinars will be free to attend.
The sessions will be hosted by the Scottish SPCA.

The Scottish SPCA has announced that it will host a pair of free webinars on the subject of children, young people and animal abuse.

Gilly Mendes Ferreira, the Scottish SPCA’s director of innovation and strategic relations, and Joanne M. Williams, professor of applied development psychology at the University of Edinburgh, will lead the sessions.

They will look at the subject of animal abuse by children and young people, and what to do when confronted by such a situation. There will also be the opportunity for participants to share their own thoughts and experiences, as well as ask questions.

The webinars will be held on:
  • Wednesday, 26 April: 10am-11am
  • Wednesday, 3 May: 7pm-8pm
The two experts recently collaborated on a book on the subject: Understanding Animal Abuse and How to Intervene with Children and Young People: A Practical Guide for Professionals Working with People and Animals.

Speaking to mark the publication of the book, Ms Ferreira said: “In recent years, we have established a worrying trend in young people being more exposed to animal abuse. This, combined with new research showing the devastating long-term impact such experiences can have, mean intervening to prevent abuse and educating people on animal welfare is critically important.”

Tickets for the free webinars can be booked online.

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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.