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Dog fouling threat to beaches highlighted
Growing trend causes risk to public health

The annual beach litter survey by the Marine Conservation Society (MCS) has noted an 11% increase in incidents of dog excrement being bagged and abandoned on public beaches, with a massive increase of 71% in Scotland. The MCS survey also noted that general littering had actually declined in the same period, with a full 11% decline being recorded over a weekend in September.

Dog fouling has repeatedly been found to be a threat to public health due to the risk of exposure to high levels of bacteria, a cause of dramatic falls in water quality, and a general public nuisance. The MCS has recommended that dog owners instead follow disposal instructions and use the bins provided for such a purpose.

This is not the first call for responsibility from dog owners clearing up after their animals. British Waterways were obliged to launch a similar campaign in 2010 to prevent dog owners abandoning bagged excrement near canals. 

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Equine Disease Surveillance report released for Q4 2025

News Story 1
 The latest Equine Disease Surveillance report has been released, with details on equine disease from Q4 of 2025.

The report, produced by Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance, includes advice on rule changes for equine influenza vaccination.

Statistics and maps detail recent outbreaks of equine herpes virus, equine influenza, equine strangles and equine grass sickness. A series of laboratory reports provides data on virology, bacteriology, parasitology and toxicosis.

This issue also features a case study of orthoflavivus-associated neurological disease in a horse in the UK. 

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News Shorts
RCVS annual renewal fee for vets due

RCVS' annual renewal fee for veterinary surgeons is now due. Vets must pay their renewal fee before Wednesday, 1 April 2026.

This year's standard annual fee has increased to 431 from last year's 418. This is an approximately three per cent increase, as approved by RCVS Council and the Privy Council.

Tshidi Gardner, RCVS treasurer, said: "The small fee increase will be used to help deliver both our everyday activities and our new ambitious Strategic Plan, which includes aims such as achieving new legislation, reviewing the Codes of Professional Conduct and supporting guidance, and continuing to support the professions through activities such as the Mind Matters Initiative, RCVS Academy and career development."

A full breakdown of the new fees is on the RCVS website. Information about tax relief is available on the UK government website.