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Bog spavin report published
Causes of bog spavin in Clydesdales need to be recognised by owners

A survey conducted by Martin Weaver and Laura Wilant of the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies has suggested that owners of Clydesdale horses need to be more aware of the causes of bog spavin.

The survey looked at the commonness of bog spavin and how owners of Clydesdale horses deal with it. The survey, conducted in both the UK and the USA, indicated that 10% of the 935 horses show signs of bog spavin, a problem affecting the chronic fluid distension of the hock joint.

The owners' approach to the condition in the UK indicated nearly half of the affected horses were not investigated at all and with just 12.2% receiving radiographic examination. However, in the USA over 75% of horses received some investigation and 37.7% of affected horses underwent radiographic examination.

It is believed some of the cases of bog spavin identified in the survey could be due to undetected osteochondrosis. The authors argue that if more owners knew about the possible causes of bog spavin they might be more likely to investigate and therefore identify those horses with osteochondrosis. Arthroscopic surgery could then be offered to appropriate cases to reduce the risk of this condition.

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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.