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Animal charities urge supporters to join 2.6 challenge
The 2.6 challenge comes amidst the cancellation of thousands of charity events and fundraising activities.
Initiative to help fill the fundraising gap left by the COVID-19 pandemic

Animal charities across the UK are calling on supporters to join the 2.6 challenge to help them through the COVID-19 pandemic.

The RSPCA, Support Dogs, Worldwide Veterinary Service and Wild Welfare and just some of the animal organisations urging people to get involved in the initiative, which encourages fundraising activities based around the number 26 or 2.6.

The week-long challenge kicks off on Sunday, 26 April, when the London Marathon would have held its 40th event. In 2019, the Marathon raised over £66.4m for charity and is a vital source of income for many animal organisations.

It comes amidst the cancellation of thousands of charity events and loss of income through fundraising initiatives. Without this finding, many charities have had no option but to reduce or stop services altogether, and many may not survive the coming months.

Participants are being urged to get involved in the 2.6 challenge in any way they choose, be that dancing to 26 songs in a row or running 2.6 miles as part of their daily exercise. There are lots of fun and creative ideas listed on the 2.6 challenge website, as well as from the charities that are involved.

Once a challenge has been selected, participants are encouraged to visit the 2.6 challenge JustGiving page, select their chosen charity and make a donation. They can then spread the word to their friends and family under the official hashtag  #TwoPointSixChallenge.

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Equine Disease Surveillance report released for Q4 2025

News Story 1
 The latest Equine Disease Surveillance report has been released, with details on equine disease from Q4 of 2025.

The report, produced by Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance, includes advice on rule changes for equine influenza vaccination.

Statistics and maps detail recent outbreaks of equine herpes virus, equine influenza, equine strangles and equine grass sickness. A series of laboratory reports provides data on virology, bacteriology, parasitology and toxicosis.

This issue also features a case study of orthoflavivus-associated neurological disease in a horse in the UK. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
RCVS annual renewal fee for vets due

RCVS' annual renewal fee for veterinary surgeons is now due. Vets must pay their renewal fee before Wednesday, 1 April 2026.

This year's standard annual fee has increased to 431 from last year's 418. This is an approximately three per cent increase, as approved by RCVS Council and the Privy Council.

Tshidi Gardner, RCVS treasurer, said: "The small fee increase will be used to help deliver both our everyday activities and our new ambitious Strategic Plan, which includes aims such as achieving new legislation, reviewing the Codes of Professional Conduct and supporting guidance, and continuing to support the professions through activities such as the Mind Matters Initiative, RCVS Academy and career development."

A full breakdown of the new fees is on the RCVS website. Information about tax relief is available on the UK government website.