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VMD launches survey on disposal of controlled drugs
VMD says there is a shortage of police CDLOs, while practices may struggle to find inspectors or independent vets in close proximity.

Directorate aims to find out extent of disposal problems

The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) is carrying out a survey to help understand the problems vets face getting controlled drugs witnessed for disposal.

Currently, veterinary surgeons must destroy schedule 2 controlled drugs in the presence of, and directed by, an authorised person.

This could be an inspector appointed under the Veterinary Medicines Regulations, a vet who is independent of the practice where destruction is taking place, or a person that is legally authorised to witness the destruction - such as a Police CD Liaison Officer (CDLO).

VMD says there is a shortage of police CDLOs, while practices may struggle to find inspectors or independent vets in close proximity. The directorate is hoping to establish the extent of the problem around the UK to inform future policy.

The survey is open to all UK registered vets until 6 June 2018 and should take no longer than 15 minutes to complete.

Complete the survey here: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/SHKTBYH

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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.