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Heroic terrier saves owner’s life
Battersea
Iain, Jane and Dexter.

Raised alarm after owner suffered anaphylactic shock  
 
A six-year-old terrier has gone from rescue dog to superdog after helping to save his new owner’s life.

Dexter the Patterdale Terrier was rehomed to Jane and Iain in Barnehurst, Kent, after spending almost at month at Battersea Brands Hatch.

While out running one morning, Iain was stung by a bee, which resulted in him going into anaphylactic shock and collapsing. This severe allergic reaction is very serious and can often prove fatal.

Luckily, Dexter was with Iain at the time and was able to draw attention to his owner's plight by barking and running frantically back and forth until another dog walker found them.

The dog walker called for an ambulance and, following some time in hospital, Iain has thankfully made a full recovery.

Iain Rowland said: “Jane and I are so proud of Dexter and we have a lot to thank him for. He played a critical part in raising the alarm by finding help and stayed by my side until the ambulance turned up.

"He has more than demonstrated his loyalty to us and we are so glad we decided to come to Battersea Brands Hatch to rehome another rescue dog, Dexter is now the third dog that we have rehomed from Battersea since 1995. Our Dexter says that every home should have a dog, as they may just save your life!”
 
Michelle Bevan, rehoming and welfare manager of Battersea Brands Hatch, said: “We were absolutely delighted to hear Dexter’s story after getting to know him whilst he was in our care and we were relieved to hear that Iain has made a full recovery.
 
“We rehome around 400 dogs every year and love to hear how they are settling into their new homes but were especially pleased to hear about Dexter’s brave behaviour. This is an amazing example of what rescue dogs can be like and we would urge people to consider coming to our centre to give the rest of our courageous canines the second chance in life they all deserve.” 

Image (C) Battersea Dogs and Cats Home

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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.