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BVA calls on minister to act over shock collars
Defra has said that it remains committed to banning shock collars.
Legislation to ban hand-controlled devices is waiting to finish its journey through Parliament.

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has written to Lord Douglas-Miller at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) about the lack of action in Parliament to finalise a ban on using hand-controlled electric shock collars on cats and dogs.

In the letter, BVA president Anna Judson wrote: ‘Although it is due to come into force on 1 February 2024, and has been carried over into the current parliamentary session, it has yet to be allocated parliamentary time in the House of Commons.’

A Defra spokesperson said: “We remain committed to delivering our pledge to ban the use of hand-controlled electric shock collars. Parliamentary business will be announced in due course.”

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Vets launch new podcast for pet owners

News Story 1
 Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.

The venture, called Vets Talking Pets, provides advice and information on a range of topics, including how to select a suitable pet, where to obtain them and how to get the best out of your vet. Maggie and Vanessa will also discuss sensitive subjects, including end-of-life care, raw food diets and the cost of veterinary care.

The podcast can be found on all the usual podcast sites, including Podbean, Apple, Amazon Music and YouTube. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
RCVS Regional Question Time heads to Edinburgh

The RCVS is to bring its Regional Question Time (RQT) to Edinburgh for 2026.

The event will take place at Novotel Edinburgh Park in Edinburgh on Wednesday, 20 May 2026.

It will begin with supper and drinks at 6.30pm, with an evening programme from 7.30pm. This will start with an update on RCVS' activities, followed by questions and answers with representatives.

RCVS is encouraging an 'open dialogue', in which queries can be raised in a friendly, informal environment.

While discussions are expected to be audience-led, the RQT is expected address major issues including the VSA, the CMA's remedy package and the VN Vision project.

Tim Parkin, RCVS president, said: "It's an important time for the professions, and I'm looking forward to meeting colleagues in Scotland as we navigate this period of change together so we can come out stronger."

Tickets can be booked here.