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BSAVA president to brave charity wing walk
BSAVA president Julian Hoad will be dressed in a full Cheshire cat onesie for his wing-walking challenge. 
Julian Hoad will take flight dressed as a Cheshire cat.

BSAVA president Julian Hoad is set to take to the skies in a daring charity wing walk for BSAVA PetSavers.

Julian, who will be donning a Cheshire cat onesie for the challenge, will secured to the top of a vintage biplane on Thursday, 29 May in Cirencester, Gloucestershire. 

The bold adventure marks the end of Julian’s presidential year, and is all in the name of raising funds for BSAVA PetSaver’s groundbreaking research. 

So far, the charity has invested over £2.7 million into diseases affecting companion animals, including cancer, heart conditions, gastrointestinal issues, neurological and joint disorders, and many more.

Reflecting on his challenge, Julian said: "Every day, vets face the heart-wrenching task of managing the distress and pain our pets suffer due to disease or poor health.

“With your support, we can ensure that they have access to the latest knowledge and resources needed to provide the best care possible.”

He added: “The need for advanced research is more pressing than ever and our pets deserve every chance at a healthy life. If dressing up as a cat and flying on the wing of a plane makes people take notice of the vital need for pet health research, then it will be worth it.”

Alison Selby, Fundraising Manager for BSAVA PetSavers said: “No one has ever been quite so daring in their fundraising efforts for us, so we are thrilled that Julian has decided to take this on to raise awareness and funds for BSAVA PetSavers.

“For every grant application that we fund, at least two or more are declined due to lack of funds. Fundraising events like this helps to land more funding in the hands of researchers who make a real difference in the veterinary community and directly impact the lives of countless pets and their families.”

At the time of writing, Julian has raised £524 of his £1,000 target. To donate to his challenge, visit his Just Giving page.

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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...
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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.