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New app to support pet health during COVID-19
The Pet Health Pal app is powered by Facebook Messenger and WhatsAPP chatbots.

Digital tool will give owners quick access to valuable advice.

A new app to support the health and wellbeing of pets during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond has been launched by Mars PetCare in collaboration with the Waltham Science Institute.

The free Pet Health Pal app, powered by the Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp chatbot system, is being launched both in the UK and USA. It will answer questions from owners related to pet health and ownership, covering topics such as health, food, exercise and happiness.

The tool is the first of its kind, specifically in today's COVID-19 environment, and forms part of Mars' mission 'to create a better world for pets'.
Helen Warren-Piper, general manager of Mars PetCare UK, explains:

“During COVID-19, a number of pet parents have got in touch with questions and concerns about how best to take care of their pets during the pandemic. This is why at Mars Petcare we are launching the “Pet Health Pal” app, giving pet owners in our pet-loving nation easy and quick access to valuable advice and resources provided by experts at the Waltham Petcare Science Institute.

"From pet nutrition to general wellbeing “Pet Health Pal” will help pet parents give their four-legged friends the best possible care.”

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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.