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BEVA highlights horse measuring case
Proceedings deemed 'of significant interest'

The British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA) has highlighted the findings of a disciplinary hearing brought by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) against Veterinary Surgeon Dr Marc Auerbach of Oak Equine Veterinary Surgery, Ongar, due to the subject of the (ultimately dismissed) case being the measurement of ponies and horses under the Joint Measurement Board (JMB) scheme.

BEVA considers the findings of the proceedings to be of significant interest to all of those people involved in the measurement of horses and ponies, with the proceedings highlighting the difficulty in establishing the true height of a horse or pony. The proceedings indicate that the height of a mature horse or pony can alter, and that the height of the animal may be influenced by external factors including seasonality feeding and pharmacological agents, and the BEVA has advised its members to note the findings with care.

The BEVA Council has a representative on the Joint Measurement Board and has announced the intention of supporting the integrity of the veterinary surgeon as the ramifications of the RCVS ruling become apparent. The BEVA has also declared the intention of being pro-active in advising the JMB should it feel that a review of the measuring and certification procedures is appropriate following this investigation. 

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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. 

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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.