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IVC Group acquires Vets Now
Vets Now will operate as an independent part of the IVC Group.
Emergency clinics to complement referral strategy 

Independent Vet Care has announced that Vets Now is to join its group later this month.

Vets Now will operate as an independent part of the IVC Group, with the current operating board led by CEO Mark Ross. The company’s head office will remain in Dunfermline, Fife, and there will be no charge for practices using the Vets Now service.

IVC Group chief executive David Hillier said: “We are delighted that Vets Now is joining the group. It is an exceptional business with a reputation for clinical quality and a key partner to much of the profession in the UK, providing emergency services at nights, weekends and bank holidays and operating from 58 sites nationwide.

“The company’s three 24/7 emergency and specialty hospitals will also complement our inter-company referral strategy to deliver a complete veterinary care solution.”

Vets Now chief executive Mark Ross added: “IVC is an exceptionally good fit for us. They have a reputation for allowing vet businesses to get on with what they do best and, importantly we will continue to operate autonomously.

“Our focus will be to continue providing the same great partnerships with all the UK independent veterinary practices and corporate groups we work with today.”

He added: “Our business has gone from strength-to-strength in a relatively short period of time, which is testament to our incredible team of over 1000 staff working up and down the country, caring for pets at the time they need it most. We’re looking forward to continuing our high levels of service and continuing to expand and evolve our business.”

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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.