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Northern Ireland publishes dog statistics
Local councils in Northern Ireland dealt with 1,172 stray dogs in the first quarter of 2017/18.
Just under half of strays were not reunited with owners

Local councils in Northern Ireland dealt with 1,172 stray dogs in the first quarter of 2017/18, of which just over half (619) were reunited with their owners. This is according to new figures published by the Department of Environment, Agriculture and Rural Affairs (DAERA).

Out of the remaining dogs who could not be reunited with their owners, 44 were euthanised, 207 sold to the public and 272 passed to animal shelters.

DAERA has published canine statistics on its website for the first time, covering a range of topics such as dog licences, dog attacks and enforcement actions.

Other key points include:
  • There were 378 dog attacks between April and June 2017. Of these, there were 201 attacks on people, 41 cases of livestock worrying and 136 attacks on other pets.
  • Out of 67 prosecutions relating to dog attacks, 12 were successfully concluded at the time of publishing the figures.
  • Thirteen cases of prohibited dogs were investigation, but no banned dogs identified.
  • 37,843 licences were issued
  • Enforcement actions included fixed penalties (686), warning letters (1,550), formal cautions (five), control conditions e.g. muzzling, neutering, owner training (101).

Statistical information on dogs is to be published on DAERA’s website each quarter.

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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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News Shorts
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.