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BVA Live 2026 line-up revealed
"BVA Live is always a great opportunity to meet with colleagues from across the profession" - Dr Rob WIlliams.

Delegates can expect sessions on the CMA investigation and ethical decision-making.

The full line-up of speakers and panellists for BVA Live 2026 has been revealed.

Due to take place at the NEC in Birmingham (11-12 June), the event promises 17 hours of stimulating CPD, networking opportunities, and a chance to learn about new developments in the veterinary sector.

Among the highlights include a session on managing complaints in the wake of the CMA investigation. BVA President Rob Williams, Jennie Jones, Head of the Veterinary Client Mediation Service, and Gavin Durston, director of Thrums Vets, will explore what veterinary teams may need to understand about CMA expectations and how to handle complaints effectively and transparently.

The programme also includes a debate on ethical decision-making. BVA Senior Vice President Elizabeth Mullineaux will lead a panel discussion on where ethical responsibility sits, how it differs from welfare assessment and what practical frameworks can help vets make defensible, compassionate decisions in real-world cases. 

Highlights from the clinical streams include euthanasia in small mammals, birds and reptiles; anaesthesia in comorbid patients; updates in ocular pharmacology; optimising hospital care for long-term patients; and managing anxiety in “pandemic puppies”.   

Also returning for 2026 is the BVA Interactive Zone, where BVA President Rob Williams, Senior Vice President Elizabeth Mullineaux, and Junior Vice President Gwen Rees will lead debates on over-treatment, managing and improving a toxic workplace and contextualised care.  

BVA president Dr Rob Williams said: “As the profession emerges from the CMA investigation, BVA Live will be one of the first opportunities for vet teams to come together to access practical CPD to move forwards and comply with the CMA remedies. This year’s programme dives into a number of areas where we expect the CMA will be looking for change, particularly when it comes to handling complaints and improving transparency.

“BVA Live is always a great opportunity to meet with colleagues from across the profession, to share your views and benefit from the experiences of other veterinary professionals, and this year we’re expecting even more people than ever. We look forward to seeing you there.” 

The full programme and information on how to attend are available on the BVA Live website.

© wellphoto/Shutterstock.com

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Vets launch new podcast for pet owners

News Story 1
 Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.

The venture, called Vets Talking Pets, provides advice and information on a range of topics, including how to select a suitable pet, where to obtain them and how to get the best out of your vet. Maggie and Vanessa will also discuss sensitive subjects, including end-of-life care, raw food diets and the cost of veterinary care.

The podcast can be found on all the usual podcast sites, including Podbean, Apple, Amazon Music and YouTube. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
VMD issues guidance on AVM-GSL packaging

The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) has shared advice on its requirements for medicines considered AVM-GSL.

The guidance explains the information that should be on the outer package, and sets out the typical maximum pack size for an AVM-GSL product. It also describes the user-friendly language, structure and phrases required on packaging and product leaflets.

AVM-GSL products do not require discussion between the purchaser and a veterinary professional. This means that clear product information is needed to support sales choices.

The information will be useful for submitting new products to the AVM-GSL category and lowering the distribution category of products from NFA-VPS to AVM-GSL.

The VMD's guidance can be accessed here.