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RSPCA centres planned for UK pet stores
Image: Gavin Grant and Nick Wood
Pets at Home to have in-store adoption centres

The RSPCA has announced plans to open several adoption centres in Pets at Home stores across England and Wales.

The second of these centres opened on Friday, May 10 in Friern Barnet in London. Pets at Home CEO Nick Wood and RSPCA chief executive Gavin Grant were present to officially open the centre.

Mr Grant said: "I'm excited by the prospect of more rescued pets being re-homed and many more people being educated about better animal care and welfare."

The centre includes a living area intended to give customers a relaxed setting to meet pets and seek advice on pet care and adoption.

It will house up to four cats and four rabbits, and dogs in need of re-homing will also be brought in at weekends. Furthermore, RSPCA staff will provide information about other animals available for adoption in the local area.

The two organisations plan to collaborate on promotional work aimed at providing owners with advice on the dietary and welfare needs of rabbits and other small pets.

Speaking at the opening, Mr Wood said: "We’ve been working hard to develop Pets at Home and RSPCA joint branded pet care literature and ensure customers are making the right decision when introducing a new pet to the family.

"The new adoption centre in Friern Barnet will be followed by several other exciting projects over the next few years."

Image credit: RSPCA

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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.