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Vets Rustle Up Treats for War Dogs
Vets in South Tyneside have launched an appeal to support dogs at war.

Staff at Blythman and Partners veterinary practice have been overwhelmed by the support for its appeal to reward service dogs in Afghanistan.

Animal lovers from all over the North East have donated treats and toys, filling nearly 200 shoeboxes in recognition of the Arms and Explosives Search dogs deployed on the front line.

The appeal was born when Donna Heron, head nurse at Blythman and Partners' South Shields branch, heard accounts of the dogs from a close friend on a tour of duty in Afghanistan.

All eight of the branches have taken part and donations have flooded in, filling twice the original target number of shoeboxes.

Donna said: "We couldn't have imagined just how generous the response to our appeal would be. There have been a lot of personal tributes that are particularly touching - we've even had letters from guide dogs, hoping the dogs in Afghanistan enjoy the toys as much as they do here at home."

The boxes are being sent in batches and are now reaching AES dogs.

Donna expressed her thanks, saying: "We're so grateful to everybody who helped us to exceed our original target of 100 boxes, and we are sure they are being very well received." 

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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.