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Temperature monitor could save lives
Victoria Davidson, creator of AnimAlarm
Device sends text alerts to owners travelling with pets

A newly launched temperature monitor aims to reduce the number of dogs suffering from heat-related ill health.

The portable device, AnimAlarm, sends a text message to the owner for every degree that the temperature rises above the maximum set.

Designed to ensure pets are kept at the right temperature whilst travelling with their owners, the device can also be used for long-term temperature monitoring - in kennels, for example.

Victoria Davidson, former Three Day Event rider and creator of the AnimAlarm, said: "Research shows that even in a moving vehicle with the air-conditioning on or the windows open, the temperature throughout a vehicle can vary by up to 7°C.

"It can be 27°C in the front near the air-conditioning or open window and at the same time be 34°C in the back where your dog might be!

"These variations in your car’s temperature can have severe consequences on the health of your dog, so it is important to stay informed."

AnimAlarm was launched at Crufts this year and has been awarded a Certificate of Recognition for Innovative Product of the Year 2013 by business magazine, Aspire.

It is hoped that the product will raise awareness of the dangers of temperature variations, and deter owners from leaving their pets unattended within vehicles. 

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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.