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New chair of RVC College appointed
“I am honoured to take on the role as chair of the RVC Council next year” – Lord Kakkar.
Lord Kakkar will take on the role in 2025.

The Royal Veterinary College (RVC) has appointed Lord Kakkar as the new chair of RVC Council.

He will succeed Baroness Young of Old Scone next year in leading the RVC’s governing body. The Council focuses on the veterinary school’s strategy and compliance requirements, risk and accountability.

A surgeon, academic, and cross-bench peer, Lord Kakkar currently holds several prominent roles, including emeritus professor of surgery at University College London, chair of King's Health Partners, chancellor of the University of Lincoln, and director of the Thrombosis Research Institute.

He was made a Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 2022 for his contributions to healthcare and public service. Earlier this year, he was appointed Knight Companion of the Most Noble Order of The Garter.

Lord Kakkar said: “I am honoured to take on the role as chair of the RVC Council next year. The RVC is a truly outstanding institution, and it will be a privilege to meet and work alongside such a talented and dedicated team of staff and students.”

Stuart Reid, principal of the RVC, added: “We are delighted to announce the appointment of Lord Kakkar and look forward to welcoming him to Council next year. Lord Kakkar’s experience is extensive and is matched by his passion for advancing knowledge through world-class research, providing high quality and groundbreaking clinical services and educating the future generations of vets, scientists and researchers.

“Lord Kakkar joins us at an exciting time for the institution and I know we will benefit from his exceptional knowledge and experience. He takes over from Baroness Young who has led Council with dedication and commitment over the last five years for which we extend a heartfelt thank you.”

Image © Royal Veterinary College

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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.