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Dog Slimmer of the Year
A dog from the Dogs Trust in Glasgow who made the news last January for being so obese he could not even walk has lost almost half his body weight.

Patch, a six-year-old Beagle Cross, weighed the same as an average six-year-old child - a whopping 4.5 stones (28.45kg) - when he was brought to the Rehoming Centre last year.

After finding a new home with the MacLean family in Motherwell, exactly one year after hitting the headlines Patch is within sniffing distance of his target weight – 2.4 stone - by weighing in at 2.9 stone (18kg).

Vets had warned that a rapid weight loss would put strain on Patch’s organs and could actually harm him, so it has been a slow, careful process. He follows a strict diet and his exercise levels have been built up gradually, with careful monitoring by veterinary staff.

Claire Kelman, Dogs Trust Glasgow Assistant Centre Manager, explain the charity’s delight at his progress:

"When Patch first came to us he was so obese he couldn't even walk and needed a sling to be moved from one place to another. Now he's lost the weight he can run around and properly enjoy his walks like any other dog. It just goes to show a good diet and careful exercise can make a real impact."

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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.