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Fire survivor bulldog entered into pet awards
Leo was treated for burns to his stomach, testicles and legs.

Two-year-old Leo defied expectations to recover from extensive burns

A bulldog that sustained horrific burns after being caught up in a fire has been entered into the PDSA’s Pet Survivor Awards.

Two-year-old Leo from Bournemouth was lying under his owner’s caravan when it burst into flames. Thankfully a family friend saw the smoke from half a mile away and hurried to his rescue.

Leo was rushed to the PDSA Pet Hospital in Bournemouth where he was treated for extensive burns to his stomach, testicles and legs. Many of the injuries were so severe that vets warned he could take months to recover.

Initially, Leo required appointments every two days to change the dressings and clean the wounds as they healed. His owner said that he also suffered severe trauma from the incident and that he would often have nights of disturbed sleep.

After weeks of treatment and TLC, Leo defied expectations and made a complete recovery. He has now become one of the first entrants for the PDSA’s Pet Survivor Awards, which champion animals that survive serious injury or illness against the odds.

The awards are open to any pet treated by a vet in the UK for a life-threatening illness or injury between 1 January 2017 and 31 August 2018.

PDSA Vet Olivia Anderson-Nathan said: “Every day, dedicated vet teams save lives and help get our beloved pets back on their paws after serious injury and illness. The PDSA Pet Survivor Awards recognise those extraordinary stories which capture a pet’s fighting spirit, their owner’s dedication and the expertise and skills of the vets and vet nurses involved.

“We welcome entries about death-defying stories of bravery and determination, to recognise the important place our pets have in our lives.”

Pet owners wishing to nominate their pet can do so at www.pdsa.org.uk/petsurvivor

Image (C) PDSA

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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.