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Henry Schein Animal Health to merge with Vets First Choice
Henry Schein and Vets First Choice expect the new business to grow such that in year three, operating income synergies will be in excess of $100 million.
Spin off to bring new global animal health company 

Henry Schein is set to spin off its animal health business and merge with Vets First Choice, launching a new public company.

The new company, called Vets First Corp., will be headquartered in Portland, Maine. It is promising to ‘provide veterinarians with a powerful new platform to grow their practices, improve client engagement, and drive better health outcomes for pets’.

Upon completion of the transaction, Henry Schein shareholders will own approximately 63 per cent of the new company, while Vets First Choice shareholders will own 37 per cent. Henry Schein is expected to receive $1-1.25 billion in cash on a tax-free basis.

Ben Shaw, founder and CEO of Vets First Choice, who will become CEO of the new company, said: "This merger creates an enhanced value chain that connects the veterinarian, the manufacturer, and the pet owner through insights and analytics that will support better clinical and financial outcomes.

“This new global animal health care company is focused on improving clinical compliance by facilitating the delivery of care how, when, and where the pet owner wants it."

Henry Schein and Vets First Choice expect the new business to grow such that in year three, operating income synergies will be in excess of $100 million.

The transaction is expected to close by the end of 2018. 

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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.