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Further work needed on telemedicine trial - RCVS Council
The trial will aim to assess the risks and benefits of remotely prescribing POM-Vs without a physical examination of the animal.
Proposed trial referred to Standards Committee for development 

A telemedicine trial proposed by the RCVS is being referred to the Standards Committee for further development, following a vote at the most recent council meeting.

The trial will aim to assess the risks and benefits of remotely prescribing prescription-only veterinary medicines (POM-Vs), when there has been no physical examination of the animal.

A number of council members raised concerns about the potential animal welfare implications of the trial. Issues raised included how the provision of 24/7 emergency care and pain relief would be affected, the implications for antimicrobial resistance and how the trial could affect the definition of an animal ‘being under his or her care’.

Council members also discussed the potential benefits of telemedicine, such as extending the reach of vets and empowering clients. Additionally, as the technology is already developing, it is essential that the college remains on the front-foot.

The Standards Committee will now consider the points made, alongside the parameters and scope of the trial. A further consultation will also be carried out with a number of external stakeholders to inform a more detailed proposal, which will come back to council for discussion at a later date.

Amanda Boag, RCVS president, said: “This was a very important and necessary debate and I appreciate that passions were, quite rightly, very high in relation to such a fundamental issue as remote prescribing where an animal has not been physically examined.
 
“I appreciate all the contributions that were made and the Standards Committee now has a clear steer as to the further work it needs to conduct before bringing the proposed trial back to a future meeting of 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.  

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.