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New RCVS president to replace fear of College
Dr Chris Tufnell (left) with Dr Bradley Viner after receiving the presidential chain of office.

Dr Chris Tufnell calls on profession to wear badge with pride

The new president of the RCVS has called upon veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses to be proud of their profession and to feel great that they are committed to the welfare of animals in their care.

In his maiden speech, Dr Chris Tufnell said: "Sadly we often hear that there are vets and nurses who live in fear of the RCVS. This is something of which I am personally ashamed.

"Being particularly mindful of the role and fear anxiety play in mental health, I will do everything I can to replace this fear... I will encourage all hardworking vets and nurses, whichever field they are in, to wear their [MRCVS] 'badge' with pride. Feel good about what you do, feel great about what you do."

Dr Tufnell, an elected member of Council since 2009, graduated with a veterinary degree from the University of Glasgow at the age of 30, having first attained a degree in Agricultural and Environmental Science from the University of Newcastle.

Following graduation, Chris worked in a mixed practice in Herefordshire before purchasing an equine and companion animal practice in West Berkshire, which currently employs five veterinary surgeons and five support staff.

Dr Tufnell became the College's new president at RCVS day on July 15. His first official duty upon receiving the presidential chain of office from President Dr Bradley Viner was to welcome the new Junior Vice President Professor Stephen May.

During the day, new members of RCVS and VN Councils were also welcomed.

Two new members of Council - Melissa Donald and Lucie Goodwin - invited to take up their seats and their four-year terms on Council. The re-elected members, Christopher Barker, Amanda Boag, Kut Sturgess and Stephen May were also confirmed for their four-year terms.

For VN Council, the newly elected members Rachael Marshall and Matthew Rendle were formally welcomed to their four-year terms by Liz Cox chair of VN Council.

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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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News Shorts
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.