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RSPCA chief steps down with immediate effect
Image Gavin Grant
Gavin Grant, former chief executive of the RSPCA.
Gavin Grant leaves his post amid health concerns

The RSPCA has announced its chief executive Gavin Grant has stepped down with immediate effect due to health concerns.

After two years in his role, the charity has credited him with "raising the profile of the society" and "laying the foundations for its long term future development."

Mr Grant commented: "It has been a huge honour to have held this post. The RSPCA is a magnificent organisation at the heart of what is the very best in humanity.

"The society is blessed with great people, both paid and volunteer. I wish it well as it continues to face huge challenges in ensuring it is ever stronger and able to meet the needs of our fellow creatures."

Mr Grant's two-year tenure with the charity has been one of the most turbulent periods in the RSPCA's long history, with negative publicity and a string of controversial prosecutions.

Many have criticised the high cost of private prosecutions brought by the charity, in particular the £326,000 spent on the Heythrop hunt prosecution in 2012.

Stephen Wooler, former HM chief inspector of the Crown Prosecution Service was appointed by the charity to conduct an independent review of its prosecutions.

The Telegraph has reported that the charity may be stripped of its prosecution rights or scrutinised by an independent watchdog following the review.

Commenting on Mr Grant's departure, chair of trustees Mike Tomlinson said: "I would like to take this opportunity to thank Gavin on behalf of myself and my fellow trustees for the very significant contribution he has made to the Society for a second time in his career.

"His drive, passion and deep love and respect for animals have impressed all that have come into contact with him.

"I would like to assure everyone that our day to day work for animals continues as usual."

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Greyhound Board announces change to vaccination guidance

News Story 1
 The Greyhound Board of Great Britain has published new vaccination guidance, with all greyhounds registered from 1 January, 2027 required to have the L4 leptospirosis vaccination, rather than L2.

The change comes in response to the reduced availability of the 'L2' Leptospirosis vaccine across the UK, and aims to support best biosecurity practice across the racing greyhound population.

GBGB veterinary director Simon Gower, said "While rare, Leptospirosis is a serious infectious disease that can affect both dogs and humans, so it is vital that we offer our greyhounds the broadest possible protection.  

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Free webinar explores congenital heart disease in dogs

A free webinar is to provide veterinary professionals, dog breeders and pet owners an new insights into congenital heart disease.

Chris Linney, a cardiology specialist and Veterinary Cardiovascular Society (VSC) member, will present the webinar from 7.00pm to 8.30pm on Wednesday, 12 November.

Dr Linney will explore the types, causes and clinical presentation of congenital heart conditions. This will include diagnostic approaches, treatment pathways and emerging research opportunities.

The session is the third to be organised by The Kennel Club, with the VCS, following an introductory webinar and a talk on acquired heart disease. Dr Linney's webinar consists of a one-hour presentation, followed by a 30-minute question and answer session.

Dr Linney said: "This webinar will be an opportunity to deepen understanding - not just of the diseases themselves, but of how breeders, vets and owners can work together to support affected dogs and improve outcomes for future generations."

Click here to register for the webinar.