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Racing and veterinary focus for National Equine Forum
This year's programme to focus on racing and veterinary science

The 2013 National Equine Forum, set for 5th March, is to appeal to a wider spectrum of the equestrian industry this year. It has been announced that a range of thought-provoking and topical presentations will come from leading names in the racing and veterinary science sectors.

Richard Lancaster, Chairman of the Thoroughbred Breeders Association, and Dr Richard Newton, head of epidemiology and disease surveillance at the Animal Health Trust, will discuss the ways in which the equestrian industry and government are working together on the control of equine infectious diseases. The Rt Hon Owen Paterson MP, the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural affairs, will also be on hand to provide DEFRA's current views on the equestrian industry.

Another interesting topic to be discussed is the recent pre-purchase examination changes. Malcolm Morley, chair of the equine pre-purchase examination committee will go through what these changes mean for the horse owner.

Mark Hillyer, of the Newmarket Equine Hospital is set to share his extensive knowledge with delegates on current colic treatments and their success rates, and Professor Pat Harris who leads the WALTHAM Equine Studies Group, will look in detail at the effects of grass in horse husbandry.

On matters racing, Pieter Brama, professor of veterinary surgery at the University College Dublin is to present a stimulating paper on whether horses are ready to race at two years old.

The National Equine Forum is unique in the UK, bringing together all sectors of the equestrian industry to debate that latest equestrian news, views and research. Further information and a copy of the programme can be found on the BEF website.

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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. 

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.