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New law gives private renters right to keep pets
Battersea said the move marks a significant milestone for pets and their owners across England. 

Battersea celebrates landmark win for tenants. 

A new law giving renters the right to request a pet, which a landlord cannot unreasonably refuse, has passed its final stage in parliament.

The passage of the Renters’ Rights Bill brings an end to blanket pet bans in rental properties across England, enabling millions of renters to keep or welcome pets into their homes.  

It follows years of campaigning by animal charities, including Battersea, who have long advocated for fairer rental policies to keep animals and their owners together.

Battersea chief executive Peter Laurie, said the move marks a significant milestone for pets and their owners across England.

"The passing of the Renters' Rights Act ensures that blanket pet bans will no longer be an obstacle to pet ownership, opening homes to millions of responsible tenants and their animals," he said.

"At Battersea, we've long campaigned for this change. We've seen firsthand the heartbreak caused by restrictive housing policies, of families forced to choose between keeping a home and keeping their beloved pets. Now, more people will be able to enjoy the companionship and wellbeing benefits pets bring, regardless of whether they rent or own their home.” 

Despite the new act, Battersea warns there is more work to be done to ensure the rental market becomes truly inclusive for pets and their owners. 

Peter continued: "While the Bill marks real progress in creating a fairer rental sector for tenants, landlords, and pets, there is still more to be done to strengthen the legislation's pet provisions. Battersea remains committed to working with the government to see these improvements through and ensure a future where every tenant can experience the joys of pet ownership." 

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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.