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Royal (Dick) School appoints new head
Professor Lisa Boden will take up the role in September.
Expert in veterinary public health takes up the role.

Professor Lisa Boden has been appointed as head of the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies.

She will begin her new role in September 2023, succeeding interim head Professor Dylan Clements, who has held the role since May 2023. The most recent permanent incumbent, Professor David Argyle, has recently been appointed as vice-principle and head of the University of Edinburgh’s College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine.

A specialist in veterinary public health and population medicine, Professor Boden is a senior lecturer at the University of Edinburgh and the Global Academy of Agriculture and Food Security.

She is deputy director of the Centre of Expertise on Animal Disease Outbreaks (EPIC) which advises the Scottish government and livestock industry on how to prepare for emerging animal diseases and respond to outbreaks.

In 2019, she launched
the One Health FIELD Network to bring together experts from across different academic disciplines to develop methods for improving food security in fragile and conflict-affected states.

Professor Boden said: “I am excited and honoured to take on this role. It is a privilege to be able to lead this school, which has such extensive history and tradition, but remains a beacon of excellence for research-led teaching and innovation in clinical veterinary medicine, agriculture and biomedical research. I look forward to this opportunity to help shape the future of our veterinary profession.”

Professor Argyle added: “I am delighted that Professor Boden will be the next Head of the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies. She is an exceptional and inspirational veterinary academic leader and I know the School can look forward to a bright future and continued success.”

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.