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BVA announces annual photography competition
The categories include companion animal photography and wildlife photography.
Categories include 'a vet's life in lockdown' and 'happy pets that make us smile'.

The BVA has launched its annual photography competition, with a £250 John Lewis voucher for the winners and a chance for the images to go on display at BVA Live.

BVA's Veterinary Photographer of the Year Award is split into three categories, focussing on images that capture the human-animal bond in everyday veterinary work, as well as companion animal and wildlife photography. 

Last year's winners include Laura Caballero Pastor, who scooped first place in the 'One Veterinary Community' category with her shot of Nepalese locals vaccinating a street dog against rabies. Jennifer Dykes won the ‘All creatures great and small’ category with her picturesque image of a misty UK mountainside and flock of sheep.

No expensive photography equipment is required as submissions for each category can be shot on a mobile phone or a high-spec camera. The three categories are:
  • a vet’s life in lockdown - Images that reflect the extraordinary circumstances we have all been thrust into during the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.
  • all creatures great and small - An opportunity to look at the vast diversity of the animal kingdom: domestic, agricultural and all aspects of wildlife.
  • happy pets that make us smile - Reflecting the joy of a happy, contented animal. 
BVA President, James Russell said: “The BVA Veterinary Photographer of the Year Award is something that we all look forward to, and the incredible array of eye-catching photos taken by people from across the veterinary community never ceases to impress me.

“In view of the current circumstances, we have introduced a new category: ‘A vet’s life in lockdown’, which we hope will produce some interesting documentation of how the profession has fared against a very challenging backdrop, like no other. 

“Now in its fifth year, the competition always attracts high quality, diverse and often poignant imagery. I am very excited to be part of the judging panel and to have the opportunity to see the amazing images submitted this year.

“Whether you’re a semi-professional photographer or a casual snapper, we encourage you to enter and showcase your daily interactions with animals either at work or play, or your skill at capturing wildlife at its most beautiful, even if it is in your back garden, or on the windowsill.”

The competition is open to all current BVA members and will be judged by BVA officers among others. Entries will close on 8 March 2021 with the winners announced in April. 

Because of the current national lockdowns, BVA is reminding entrants not to breach any guidelines just to get ‘the perfect shot’. Photos that are taken around the home, garden and local area are encouraged. Photographs from the past will also be accepted.

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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.