Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.

Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel
Livestock and Global Poverty
Photo by Tadelle Dessie
Vets highlight the role of livestock and livestock keepers in the fight against global poverty.

Sunday 18 April 2010 was World Poverty Day, a day when the main political parties in the United Kingdom addressed world poverty issues and the role of international development. It was also a day when vets were keen to encourage policy makers to highlight the role of livestock and livestock keepers in the fight against global poverty.

The control of animal diseases is an essential component in the fight against poverty.
Tess Sprayson, the UK Councillor on the CVA and member of the BVA Overseas Group said: “Livestock play an important part in the lives of 630 million of the world’s poorest people not only as food supply but as a source of income and as generators of employment. They also provide key functions in crop production as draught animals, their manure is used as a crop fertiliser as well for fuel and biogas, and grazing animals are used for weed control.

Photo by Ashley Banyard.
Professor Bill Reilly, President of the BVA, added: “The control of animal diseases is an essential component in the fight against poverty. On a daily basis throughout the world the veterinary profession plays a vital role in contributing to the public good by working with livestock keepers to control disease and promote sustainable animal and public health.”

In stressing the importance of livestock in the fight against global poverty, Tess Sprayson emphasised: “The culture of livestock keeping has strength and meaning in every region of the world. The fact remains that livestock are the means by which millions of disadvantaged people around the world, quite literally, stay alive and international development policies need to reflect this fact.”

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

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
RCVS Regional Question Time heads to Edinburgh

The RCVS is to bring its Regional Question Time (RQT) to Edinburgh for 2026.

The event will take place at Novotel Edinburgh Park in Edinburgh on Wednesday, 20 May 2026.

It will begin with supper and drinks at 6.30pm, with an evening programme from 7.30pm. This will start with an update on RCVS' activities, followed by questions and answers with representatives.

RCVS is encouraging an 'open dialogue', in which queries can be raised in a friendly, informal environment.

While discussions are expected to be audience-led, the RQT is expected address major issues including the VSA, the CMA's remedy package and the VN Vision project.

Tim Parkin, RCVS president, said: "It's an important time for the professions, and I'm looking forward to meeting colleagues in Scotland as we navigate this period of change together so we can come out stronger."

Tickets can be booked here.