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‘Hot topic’ sessions announced for BVA Live
"These 'hot topic' sessions are bound to be a highlight for every vet professional" - Malcolm Morley
Veterinary professionals invited to join the debate.

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has released the details for BVA Live, being held in Birmingham on Thursday, 11 May and Friday, 12 May. The programme includes debates on some of the hottest topics currently facing the profession, and veterinary professionals are invited to share their views.

Taking place in the Interactive Zone, the debates will be led by BVA president Malcolm Morley, senior vice president Justine Shotton and junior vice president Anna Judson.

The topics to be debated are:
  • What if vets trained to practise in only one species group? We debate the hypothetical ramifications to a change in veterinary training. How would single species qualifications change the face of the profession?
  • What if UK dog imports were banned? With some charities already calling for tighter restrictions to protect the domestic dog population, their owners and vets from imported disease risks, we’ll explore the potential impact of an outright ban.
  • What is the role of vets in maintaining the social licence of animal sport? Speakers and attendees will discuss the ethical and practical role of vets in animal support and consider whether the time has come for the profession to reconsider its involvement.
Malcolm Morley, BVA president said: “These ‘hot topic’ sessions are bound to be a highlight for every vet professional with an interest in the issues facing the profession today.

“From specialisation in the profession, to dog imports and the ethical challenges around animal sport, they offer a chance to step outside of our daily work and dig deep into these contentious issues.

“Some people come with a soapbox, while others come to listen, but the informal setting means that on the day everyone becomes a part of the discussion and debate.”

The two day event offers 17 hours of CPD, and the full programme can be viewed online.

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

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.

 

Click here for more...
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.