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Vet launches venture to support animal welfare charities
Vet Maggie Roberts previously worked for Cats Protection.
The company will provide veterinary and legal advice.

A veterinary surgeon has launched a new consultancy company to provide veterinary and legal advice to charities and other not-for-profit organisations involved in animal welfare

Maggie Roberts, who previously worked for Cats Protection as director of feline welfare and director of veterinary services, has set up Advovet alongside lawyer Dominic Sullivan.

As well as working for Cats Protection, Dr Roberts has served as a member of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs’ Small Animal Expert Group among other roles and was recently appointed as the independent chair of the Microchipping Trade Association.

Mr Sullivan has also worked for Cats Protection, including as interim chief executive. Together the two founders have a combined 45 years’ experience in the animal welfare sector.

The company will offer advice on medicine, shelter design, training, governance, and charity and animal welfare law.

Dr Roberts said: “Many people start up animal charities with the best of intentions but can lack the experience of running an organisation or dealing with multiple animals.”

“During my career I’ve seen many become overwhelmed or run out of funds, which can have a negative effect on their mental health and the animals in their care. Others may be doing well but don’t have the capacity or expertise to maximise their impact.

“However, with the right support and guidance these organisations can make a real difference to the animals that need them and this is where we want to help.”

Image © Advovet

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Equine Disease Surveillance report released for Q4 2025

News Story 1
 The latest Equine Disease Surveillance report has been released, with details on equine disease from Q4 of 2025.

The report, produced by Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance, includes advice on rule changes for equine influenza vaccination.

Statistics and maps detail recent outbreaks of equine herpes virus, equine influenza, equine strangles and equine grass sickness. A series of laboratory reports provides data on virology, bacteriology, parasitology and toxicosis.

This issue also features a case study of orthoflavivus-associated neurological disease in a horse in the UK. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
RCVS annual renewal fee for vets due

RCVS' annual renewal fee for veterinary surgeons is now due. Vets must pay their renewal fee before Wednesday, 1 April 2026.

This year's standard annual fee has increased to 431 from last year's 418. This is an approximately three per cent increase, as approved by RCVS Council and the Privy Council.

Tshidi Gardner, RCVS treasurer, said: "The small fee increase will be used to help deliver both our everyday activities and our new ambitious Strategic Plan, which includes aims such as achieving new legislation, reviewing the Codes of Professional Conduct and supporting guidance, and continuing to support the professions through activities such as the Mind Matters Initiative, RCVS Academy and career development."

A full breakdown of the new fees is on the RCVS website. Information about tax relief is available on the UK government website.