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RSPCA launches campaign as it prepares for 'toughest Christmas yet'
The Join the Christmas Rescue campaign aims to provide support for the RSPCA's frontline workers across this busy period.

Supporters urged to help frontline teams continue to rescue animals

The RSPCA has launched a new Christmas campaign to support its rescue teams, as the charity fears the financial strain from the coronavirus pandemic could result in a rise in pets being abandoned.

Last winter, the RSPCA took in more than 7,000 animals and received more than 204,000 calls, making it the busiest winter period for the charity in at least four years.

The RSPCA is concerned that this Christmas could be its 'toughest year yet' as more people may struggle to care for their pets as a result of the pandemic, causing a potential rise in neglected or abandoned animals.

The Join the Christmas Rescue campaign asks supporters to donate to help frontline teams continue to rescue and care for animals in need across England and Wales.

Dermot Murphy, head of the RSPCA's animal rescue teams said: “It's been a tough year for everyone, including charities, so now more than ever we need your help to continue our vital work saving animals and giving them a voice.

“Our frontline teams are out throughout the winter but they cannot do this alone, which is why we've launched our Join the Christmas Rescue campaign to show how we can all help animals.

“From our animal rescuers, hospital and centre staff, and our volunteers to every supporter who picks up the phone to call us when an animal is in need, or donates to help us continue our work - every one of us is vital to make sure we can rescue the animals who need us the most.”

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BSAVA partners with BVA Live 2026

News Story 1
 BSAVA is to partner with BVA Live (11-12 June 2026) to champion clinical research.

The organisation will be supporting BVA Live's Clinical Abstracts programme, showcasing selected abstracts of veterinary research throughout the event.

The clinical abstracts can be on any small animal veterinary subject, and must be based on research undertaken in industry, practice or academia. Abstracts can be presented in poster or oral formats.

Submissions will open on 15th December 2025, and close on 6th March 2026. You can register interest here

Click here for more...
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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.