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Nation's secrets known by dogs
9 in 10 owners spill secrets to pets

A survey of Britain's pet owners has found that 65 per cent of people will confide in their four-legged friend before, or instead of, a fellow human.

Out of 1193 dog owners taking part in the Churchill Pet Insurance survey, almost nine in ten admitted to sharing a secret with their pet at some stage.

According to Churchill, common worries to be shared with a canine friend were relationships, health, money/finance and work. Almost all of the owners cited the non-judgemental nature of a dog as the reason for telling them secrets.

Ryan O'Meara, editor of K9 magazine, commented: "It's no great surprise that so many Britons turn to their pets as a shoulder to cry on or an ear to confess to.

"They don't judge, they don't tell tales and they seem to always be ready with the right response. Further evidence as to why man's best friend earned his title."

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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.