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Darwinian theory brought to BSAVA delegates
Image: Steve Burden Photography
Science superstar presents congress lecture

Evolutionary biologist and writer, Richard Dawkins, brought his scientific expertise to the BSAVA Congress, delivering a lecture to delegates.

The well-respected scientist gave a thought-provoking and interesting talk on some of the evolutionary aspects that effect animal and medical science.

Prof Dawkins, who is a prolific writer, began by recommending the book Evolution and Healing by Nesse and Williams, which he said should be read by every doctor and veterinary surgeon, in his opinion.

He went on to explain the concept of natural selection within a species and how "survival of the fittest" is not an arms race between two species, rather it is the genes of an individual species that are bettering themselves throughout generations.

The lecture brought intelligence and humour to a very serious subject, which also touched upon the issue of antimicrobial resistance.

At the end of the lecture, a lively audience of delegates put numerous questions forward to Prof Dawkins.

He answered clearly and fully, giving his scientific opinion on cancer mutations, the speed of genetic mutations in general, and the genetics of race horses.

Oxford graduate Dawkins has won various prestigious awards for his work and has lectured around the world, appearing in television and radio broadcasts also.

Furthermore, Prof Dawkins has authored a host of successful books, which each expand upon Darwinian theory. These include The Selfish Gene, The God Delusion and Royal Society of Literature Award winner, The Blind Watchmaker.

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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.