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RSPCA Launches Animal Welfare Hotline
Farmers struggling in the cold weather can now get help from the RSPCA.
The RSPCA and National Farmers Union (NFU) are working together to help farmers and animals struggling in the cold weather.

The RSPCA is launching a new Farm Animal Welfare Hotline. All calls will be handled by the Society’s National Control Centre and if necessary, passed onto frontline RSPCA staff to access what help is needed.

Tim Wass, chief officer of the RSPCA inspectorate, said: “The extreme cold and bad weather conditions could have a massive impact on farm animals. We are committed to doing everything we can to assist them, and hope this hotline will be a real help for farmers who find themselves in difficulties.”

NFU livestock board chairman Alistair Mackintosh said: “While farmers are very resilient and are used to coping with extreme weather conditions the current bad weather has left some facing difficult situations. The welfare of their livestock is of paramount importance to farmers and, while, they are working hard to carry on as normal, anything that gives them an additional helping hand in these extreme conditions is welcome.”

Farmers and livestock owners with severe animal welfare problems can now call the RSPCA Farm Animal Welfare Hotline on 0300 1238424.

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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.