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Irish horse amnesty launched

Two animal charities in Ireland launch separate initiatives to combat unwanted horses.

The Dublin Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (DSPCA) has unveiled a countrywide horse amnesty, which invites owners to hand over unwanted horses.

At the same time, the Irish Horse Welfare Trust (IHWT) plans to roll out its education and castration scheme across the Republic.

The DSPCA is carrying out the amnesty in the hope that horse owners will seek advice and support.

Jimmy Cahill, DSPCA, said "This represents a major shift for the DSPCA, from fire-fighting to working with horse owners before it's too late."

The IHWT feels that working with and educating owners will enable them to keep their animals and give them the best possible life.

Sharon Newsome of IHWT, said "We must begin with tackling indiscriminate breeding and lack of education."

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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.

 

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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.