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RCVS updates confidentiality guidance

Dealing with pets registered to someone other than client

Client confidentiality and microchipping guidance for veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses has been amended by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS).

The amendments address the issue surrounding when a patient is brought to the practice by someone other than its registered owner.

In this situation, there are grey areas with regards to rules on client confidentiality and data protection for both veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses.

As such, a brand new flow diagram has been added to Chapter 14 of the RCVS Code of Professional Conduct, along with supporting guidance.

There are various reasons why a client may bring in an animal that is not registered to them, for example pets that have been rehomed or sold without updated microchips, civil disputes between owners and, in some cases, stolen animals.

Click here to view the amended chapter.

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RCVS announces 1CPD app update

News Story 1
 The RCVS has announced a new version of its 1CPD mobile app, with enhanced features for veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses to record their continuing professional development.

The mobile app includes a new 'what would you like to do?' shortcut for frequent tasks, a notification badge, and the ability to scan a QR code from the home screen to easily record an activity.

Users will be prompted to update the app from the App Store or Google Play the next time they log in. For more information, visit RCVS.org.uk 

Click here for more...
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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.