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Welfare focus for World Veterinary Day
Katie McConnell
Katie McConnell was inaugurated as BSAVA president at the association's congress in early April this year.
Celebrating the vital role of the profession for animals and society

Each year, vets and nurses from around the world celebrate World Veterinary Day (WVD). It is a chance to inform the general public about the importance of the veterinary profession to both animals and society.

The theme this year is animal welfare. BSAVA president Katie McConnell says : "It is a lifelong commitment to animal welfare that drives vets and veterinary nurses on a daily basis."

She argues this commitment is shared by animal lovers and pet owners, so the theme "presents an umbrella under which we can bring together all those who share this passion."

WVD has taken place on the last Saturday of every April since it was initiated by the World Veterinary Association in 2000. Previous themes have included one health, rabies and vaccination.

Tying in with this year's theme, the WSAVA Foundation has launched the "African Small Companion Animal Network. The scheme aims to advance veterinary care standards across Africa by creating a network of companion animal vets, associations and specialist groups in sub-Saharan Africa.

Another project, WSAVA Global Outreach, hopes to share the knowledge and experience of WSAVA members more widely around the world.

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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.