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Staffie breaks good citizen record
Rescue dog is first to receive award in two countries

A nine-year-old rescue dog from Brighton has become the first dog to be awarded Good Citizen status in two countries.

The Staffordshire bull terrier cross, Maxx, was adopted by current owner Tracey Davidson in New York. Approximately nine kilograms underweight, two-year-old Maxx was despondent, nervous and suffering from several illnesses.

In order to build his confidence, Tracey took him to Canine Good Citizen training classes in Brooklyn, and he passed the test in 2008.

Following this, the pair moved to the UK in 2011, and began training with the Kennel Club (KC) Good Citizen Dog Training Scheme in September 2012.

Since then Maxx has already achieved both Bronze and Silver awards, making him the first dog to ever achieve the good citizen awards in two countries.

Tracey says: "My motivation for training Maxx was to show the public in both the US and UK that Staffies make perfect companions when given proper training by responsible owners."

Tracey's determination has been applauded by instructors at the obedience club. KC accredited instructor, Di Morgan, said: "Tracey is a great handler who has a wonderful rapport with Maxx. We’re delighted that Maxx has achieved this one-of-a-kind accolade. He is a lovely dog."

Image: Tracey and Maxx, Kennel Club

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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.