Charity calls the event a “reminder of the power of partnership”.

The RSPCA’s second annual vet conference has been held at the University of Warwick.

The event on 28 September saw 58 veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses attend from across England and Wales, joining staff from the RSPCA, partner charities, and police and local authorities.

Topics discussed included the RSPCA Vet Voucher Scheme, which has been trialled this year to help owners in financial difficulties, rehoming, and veterinary scope of service.  

The RSPCA’s head veterinary surgeon for companion animals Vanessa Howie said: “The vet profession is a vitally important partner of the RSPCA and the aim of the vet conference is to help strengthen these relationships. The day provided updates on the work of the RSPCA, alongside training on the different aspects of prosecution case work and shelter medicine, as well as providing an excellent networking opportunity.

“It's a chance to bring together veterinary professionals to share ideas and experiences and help us to improve the support we can give, as without the vet profession we couldn't do the work that we do.”

The conference also included practical sessions on prosecution case work, which gave delegates the chance to hear from expert witnesses Dr Suzanne Green and Dr David Martin, and Scottish SPCA forensic veterinary case officer Asta Parker.

Dr Howie added: “We are really grateful to all who attended the day and took part so enthusiastically. We are all facing increasing challenges at the moment; from capacity and retention issues in the vet sector to overwhelming demand on the charity sector in the face of the cost of living crisis.

“The day was a great reminder of the power of partnership and how we are most effective when we work together. We can achieve so much together for animal welfare.”

Image (C) RSPCA