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New online course for pet owners
Cat owner using ipad
The course aims to help pet owners develop a greater understanding of their animals.
Course will give owners greater insight into their pets' needs

A free online course to help animal lovers brush up on pet subjects has been launched by the University of Edinburgh.

Designed by world-leading experts in animal welfare, The Truth about Cats and Dogs aims to teach participants about pet needs and behaviours.

“There is so much information available online about how best to look after your pet, which can be overwhelming,” commented Dr Heathor Bacon, who is among the experts organising the course.

“Our scientific understanding of cats and dogs has moved on leaps and bounds, but recent research has highlighted gaps in what pet owners know about their animals.”

The course aims to help pet owners develop a greater understanding of their animals by exploring how they perceive the world.

“Pet owners will gain a greater insight into their pets’ needs and how to provide for them,” Heather adds.

The Massive Open-access Online Course (MOOC) was developed by the University of Edinburgh’s Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies.

Beginning on the 12 June, the course content is centred on the latest scientific findings.

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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.