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Rabbit specialist crowned ‘vet of the year’ at CEVA awards
RWAF estimates that 70,000 rabbits have received RVHD2 vaccination thanks to Richard.
Dr Richard Saunders praised for getting RVHD2 vaccination into the UK

Rabbit specialist advisor Dr Richard Saunders was crowned ‘Vet of the Year’ at the 2018 Ceva Animal Welfare Awards.

Richard, who helps guide the welfare and strategy of the Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund (RWAF), won the prestigious ’Chris Laurence Vet of the Year’ award for his dedication to improving rabbit welfare. Judges praised Richard for his work in getting a new vaccine into the UK to protect rabbits against RVHD2.

Rae Todd, CEO of the RWAF, commented: “We're incredibly proud of Richard for all of his hard work and delighted that he's received recognition for his work. We all owe Richard a huge debt of gratitude for his commitment to the industry and for protecting all pet rabbits. So far, we estimate in the region of 70,000 rabbits have been vaccinated thanks to Richard.”

Richard graduated from the University of Liverpool in 1994 before obtaining his Certificate in Zoological Medicine in 2001 and his Diploma in Zoological Medicine in 2010. He is a registered RCVS specialist in zoo and wildlife medicine - one of only 30 people in the world.

As a veterinary advisor for the RWAF, Richard dedicates his work to raising awareness and improving standards of rabbit welfare in the UK.  Broadcaster Matt Baker who presented Dr Saunders with his award said:

“I am truly humbled by the hard work and dedication of individuals and organisations who are passionate about improving animal welfare and would like to congratulate both the finalists and the award winners who are making a real difference to the lives of animals both in the UK and abroad.”

Cuneyt Seckin, managing director of Ceva Animal Health, added: “The Ceva Animal Welfare Awards go from strength to strength, both in terms of the number and quality of entries that we receive during the nomination process and the dedication, commitment and enthusiasm of the finalists and winners who often go above and beyond the call of duty in the name of animal welfare.”

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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.