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Abandoned puppy rescue features in Christmas advert
The advert features two abandoned puppies being rescued.
The RSPCA advert is based on true rescue story.

The RSPCA has launched a Join the Christmas Rescue appeal alongside a new Christmas advert.

The advert is based on the real rescue of Staffordshire bull terrier-type puppies Jack and Poppy by RSPCA inspector Anthony Joynes. The two dogs had been abandoned in a flat in Merseyside when their owners moved out.

After a neighbour had reported their suspicions that the dogs may have been left behind, the RSPCA found them in an emaciated condition. They had not been left with any food or water.

Mr Joynes said: “The puppies were so weak and terrified they had almost given up on life – it was really lucky we were alerted to their plight when we were because I don’t think they would have survived much longer.”

Both puppies received emergency veterinary treatment. They have recovered well and have since been rehomed.

Last Christmas, the RSPCA received reports of more than 700 incidents. Its frontline officers, veterinary teams, and branch staff work every day of the year.

The charity expects to be busy again this Christmas. It believes that financial pressures are causing a rise in the number of pet abandonments and neglect reports.

Mr Joynes added: “Sadly now, during the winter months, we see more people financially struggling which leads to more reports like this.

“But we can make a difference, and with the public’s help if they Join The Christmas Rescue they can support our rescuers, veterinary teams, branches and centre staff who work tirelessly to give animals the urgent treatment and love that will save their lives.”

The advert can be watched here.

Image © RSPCA

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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.