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Students reach out to homeless pet owners
Students are donating the backpacks to visitors of the All4Paws veterinary clinic.

Vet school gifts backpacks containing vital supplies

Staff and students at the University of Edinburgh’s Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies have launched an initiative to help vulnerable people and their animals this Christmas.

The team is handing out backpacks stuffed with items like basic toiletries, warm winter clothes, food and first aid supplies.

Students are donating the backpacks to visitors of the All4Paws veterinary clinic - a monthly drop-in centre where people living on the streets can access veterinary care for their animals.

Filled with donations from staff and students, the backpacks are also being gifted at Social Bite Supper events across the city.

Final year student Jamie-Leigh Thomson, who came up with the idea, has contributed to similar projects in recent years.

“I just wanted to try something that will help pet owners in need. The enthusiasm of the school and generosity has completely astonished me,” she said.

So far the team has given away more than 60 backpacks containing items for both men and women.

“This is a tremendous student-led project to support those less fortunate and their pets,” added Professor Susan Rhind, director of veterinary teaching at the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies.

“We are proud of their inspiring kindness and pro-activity. This is an excellent example of the entire Vet School community coming together to think of others during the festive period.”

Image (C) University of Edinburgh

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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.  

Click here for more...
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.