Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 2nd January 2024
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

Outgoing RSPCA chair receives New Year Honour
René Olivieri will accept a CBE for his services to the charitable sector.
René Olivieri has been awarded a CBE.

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) has congratulated its outgoing chair, as he receives a CBE in this year’s New Years Honours.

René Olivieri, who was appointed chair of the RSPCA in 2019, will accept a CBE for his services to the charitable sector.

Mr Olivieri has served four years in the role, during which he saw the board of trustees through the global pandemic.

He was also responsible for overseeing the charity’s ten year strategy, Together for Animal Welfare. The plan will see the RSPCA call on government organisations, businesses and supporters to help them achieve their eight goals, which include stopping illegal puppy and kitten trading, reducing animal cruelty by half, and securing legal protection for animals.

Mr Olivieri has a particular interest in the welfare of farmed animals. He was the founder of the Farm Animal Welfare Forum (FAWF), which brings together organisations such as the British Veterinary Association, RSPCA and Compassion in World Farming to improve farm animal welfare.

His work has also seen him chair and be a member on the boards of professional and charitable organisations including wildlife trusts, publishing and academia. In February 2022, he became chair of the National Trust.

Mr Olivieri stepped down as RSPCA chair in April 2023, however will continue in his role as vice chair and trustee of RSPCA Assured. The new chair, Claire Horton CBE, began her three-year term on 1 January 2024.

Chris Sherwood, chief executive of the RSPCA, said: “I am delighted to congratulate René on the news of this wonderful achievement - what an honour to be recognised for services to charity.

“To be awarded CBE is an outstanding accolade, marking decades of dedication to improving animal welfare, as well as his commitment to nature and heritage. The animal world is undoubtedly better off thanks to his commitment.”

Image © RSPCA

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

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.