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Children's authors back Kennel Club initiative
As part of National Literacy Week, children's authors have backed the Kennel Club Bark and Read scheme.
As part of National Literacy Week, children's authors have backed the Kennel Club Bark and Read scheme.

Reading to dogs scheme aims to boost children's literacy and self confidence

Children's authors Anna Wilson, Andrew Cope and Viviane Schwarz are supporting a Kennel Club scheme that encourages youngsters to read to their dogs.

The Bark and Read Foundation is aimed to boost literacy and improve children's self confidence.

This week is National Storytelling Week (February 1 to February 8) and as part of this The Kennel Club has asked schools taking part in the Bark and Read scheme, to let children chose their favourite books to read to their canine friend.

It comes as a survey by the National Literacy Trust found that only a quarter of children read in their spare time, and one in five said they were embarrassed to be seen reading.

Anna Wilson, author of The Smug Pug and Pup Idol, said: "Reading aloud and storytelling have always been very important to me. As an author, I go into schools and see how reading stories can help build confidence and improve literacy skills.

"Reading to dogs is a fantastic, innovative idea – it will help boost the confidence of children who are nervous of reading aloud in front of a class, for example, and will encourage a lifelong love of books and reading, I'm sure.

"I frequently read to my own dog when I am trying out new passages of writing, so I can highly recommend it."

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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 

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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.