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
Practice Stamps for Horse Vacs
Vets to authorise vaccinations in detail


According to the EU regulations, details of every vaccination which a horse undergoes must be entered clearly and in detail, certifying the name and signature of the veterinarian.  It has become evident that a number of UK vets are failing to follow this through. 

Admittedly, in some cases it has been reported that a generic practice stamp has been used, but there is no indication of the vet's name or their signature.

This may appear trivial to some, however, such lack of authorisations means there are risks of governmental bodies delaying transport or sale. It could also lead to competition authorities (i.e. racing/ equestrianism) not being able to quickly address vaccinations and thus prevent horses from competing.

In order to fully ensure veterinary practices are following regulations, it is advised to use a stamp that does not only indicate the practice but also the veterinary surgeon's name, accompanied by a written signature.  This should be appropriate and eligible enough to fit in the 'Veterinary Surgeon Stamp / Non du Veterinaire column in a passport vaccinations records book.  

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

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.