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International Canine Health Awards
Inherited disease research recognised at Crufts

The International Canine Health Awards have been presented to two international medical experts and one UK vet student, for their groundbreaking work in the field of inherited diseases.

Dr Gustavo Aguirre, a world-leading professor of medical genetics and ophthalmology at the University of Pennsylvania's School of Veterinary Medicine, received the International Prize in Canine health.

He received the award particularly in recognition of improving ophthalmology treatment for both dogs and humans, and his advancement of research into canine eye diseases.

In his time, Dr Aguirre has identified more than 14 different retinal disease genes and he led the first ever team to restore vision in blind dogs using gene therapy.

The Lifetime Achievement Award was received by the world's foremost authority in canine genomics, American scientist Dr Elaine Ostrander.

Dr Ostrander is chief of cancer genetics, head of comparative genetics and distinguished investigator at the National Human Genome Research Institute of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in Maryland.

She is largely responsible for dramatic advances in the understanding of both mammalian genomics and the genetic basis of cancer susceptibility.

Recipient of the Student Inspiration Award, Emily Milodowski, is currently taking a year out to study for a BSc in Cellular and Molecular Medicine. She has previously worked on the prevalence and distribution of certain bacteria in the canine intestine.

Ms Milodiowski, of Bristol University, has been awarded £10,000 towards funding her future work in wound healing.

The awards ceremony took place at Crufts 2013.

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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. 

Click here for more...
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.