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Charity reports rise in horse welfare concerns
Horse
In 2014, World Horse Welfare re-homed over 300 horses, ponies and donkeys, which is a ten-year record. 

World Horse Welfare took in 259 horses in 2014

There has been a significant rise in horse welfare concerns, according to World Horse Welfare.

The equine charity say that in the last year alone they took in 259 horses, which is a 43 per cent rise on their yearly average.

One alarming trend they are experiencing is the rise in the number of large groups of 10 or more horses being brought into their rescue and rehoming centres.

Deputy chief executive Tony Tyler, said: "The pressure this puts on our centres is compounded by the fact that all too often these groups consist of mares and stallions, so there are invariable mares who arrive with us in foal."

In 2014, World Horse Welfare re-homed over 300 horses, ponies and donkeys, which is a ten-year record.  

Tony added that January 2015’s figures show that the enthusiasm for rehoming is stronger than ever: “Early indications for January are very encouraging for another record-breaking year and demonstrate that people really do see rehoming as a safe and viable option.

"Frustratingly, however, the number of horses needing urgent rescue and rehabilitation far outweighs the number being re-homed – the need is greater than ever.” 

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Applications open for MMI research grants

News Story 1
 RCVS' Mind Matters Initiative (MMI) has launched round two of its veterinary mental health research grants.

Researchers have until 11.59pm on Wednesday, 28 May 2025 to apply for a grant for research which reflects MMI's 2025 focus areas.

Only one Impact Grant was awarded last year, and so this year there are two Discovery Grants and one Impact Grants available. Each Discovery Grant is worth £5,000 and the Impact Grant is worth £15,000.

For more information or to apply, email researchgrants@rcvs.org.uk to contact the MMI team.

 

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News Shorts
BBC Radio 4 documentary addresses corporate fees

BBC Radio 4's File on 4 Investigates has released a documentary exploring how corporate-owned veterinary practices may be inflating bills to increase profit.

Released on 15 April, 'What's Happening To Your Vet Bills?' revealed the policies which many corporate groups have in place to increase their profits. This included targets and upgrades which veterinary teams are tasked with meeting on a regular basis.

It also features Anrich Vets, an independently-owned practice based in Wigan. Following the case of Staffordshire terrier Benjy, who is diagnosed with a tumour, the documentary shares how the team were able to offer contextualised care and advice to make the procedure as affordable as possible for his owners.

The documentary can be heard on demand on BBC iPlayer.