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Rescue dog gets emotional support pug
Pancake and Fraser are best of friends.

Pancake proved to be the perfect companion for timid Fraser

A large rescue dog once too scared to leave his kennel is brimming with new-found confidence thanks to a little pug called Pancake.

One-year-old Fraser found himself at Battersea Dogs & Cats Home after a change in circumstances. But his stocky build, cropped ears and docked tail meant that many prospective owners found him intimidating.

But Fraser was a very timid dog, too scared to leave his kennel, even for a short walk. That was until he met six-month-old pug Pancake, who had been adopted by Battersea’s canine behaviourist Elizabeth Kidd.

Battersea staff had tried everything they could to get Fraser to come out of his shell, so they decided to introduce him to another dog. With her confident nature and playful personality, Pancake proved to be the perfect companion.

“Although Pancake and Fraser didn’t appear to be the most likely pairing, it was heart-warming to see how well they got along,” said Elizabeth. “Little Pancake really taught Fraser how to be a brave dog and be more confident in himself.” 


Thanks to the help of Pancake, Fraser has gained so much confidence that he is now ready to find his forever home. Battersea said that he is looking for a family that has plenty of other dogs to keep him company, as this is something he truly benefits from.

“Fraser really thrived in his friendship with Pancake; helping him to come out of his shell,” Elizabeth continued. “Some nervous dogs in a kennel environment may find a friend beneficial. Where appropriate we pair less confident dogs up with those who are more resilient and cope well with new environments, like our kennels. 


“Alongside other tailored behavioural and training support, this can be an additional way to help them feel comfortable whilst with us.”

Image (C) Battersea Dogs & Cats Home.

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Greyhound Board announces change to vaccination guidance

News Story 1
 The Greyhound Board of Great Britain has published new vaccination guidance, with all greyhounds registered from 1 January, 2027 required to have the L4 leptospirosis vaccination, rather than L2.

The change comes in response to the reduced availability of the 'L2' Leptospirosis vaccine across the UK, and aims to support best biosecurity practice across the racing greyhound population.

GBGB veterinary director Simon Gower, said "While rare, Leptospirosis is a serious infectious disease that can affect both dogs and humans, so it is vital that we offer our greyhounds the broadest possible protection.  

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Nominations open for RCVS and VN Council elections

The nomination period for the 2026 RCVS Council and VN Council elections is now open, with three veterinary surgeon seats and two veterinary nurse seats available.

Prospective candidates can download an information pack and nomination form from the RCVS website. Individuals can nominate themselves for the elections, with the results to be announced in the spring.

Clare Paget, the recently appointed RCVS Registrar and elections returning officer, said: "If you want to play your part in influencing and moulding how the professions are regulated, and making key decisions on matters of great importance to your peers, the public and animal health and welfare, please consider standing for RCVS Council or VN Council next year."

Nominations close at 5pm on Saturday, 31 January 2026.