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Reformed 'ASBO cat' seeks loving home
PC Polly
PC Polly is looking for a fresh start. 
Former kitty criminal can't wait to start a new life on the outside

Cats Protection's adoption centre in Belfast is in search of new home for a cat with a history of feline felony.

Affectionately named 'PC Polly' by staff at the centre, the attractive dark tortoiseshell was brought into Cats Protection for rehabilitation after being "arrested" by local police in Armagh for disorderly conduct in March 2013.

PC Polly first made herself known by chasing a member of the public up and down the road, meowing incessantly and generally making a quite a scene. When they tried to shoo her away, PC Polly lashed out and scratched them - probably because she wanted them to know how hungry she was.

Knowing that they were in desperate need of help, the member of the public approached a local policewoman who was luckily a cat lover.  The policewoman took PC Polly to a veterinary clinic, who in turn contacted Cats Protection.

PC Polly was taken in by Gillian who volunteers for Cats Protection's Armagh branch. Despite her offence, the naughty tortie quickly took to Gillian and in turn, Gillian developed a real fondness to her.

Gillian said: “She was feisty when she first came in, but we let her come to us for affection on her terms, and we soon grew to love her strong character. She became much calmer and more loving after some TLC in the form of warmth and food.”

PC Polly was then transferred to the Cats Protection's Belfast adoption centre, where staff are now hoping that she will find her forever home.

“She is a stunning looking girl and she takes medication easily for a heart problem she has,” said adoption centre manager Bel Livingstone. “She is young – only about 2 years old and we think she will make a great pet for the right people. However, her “shady” past means she wouldn’t suit a young family. No one can be sure what triggered her aggressive behaviour – perhaps it was as simple as someone stepping on her tail!”
 
PC Polly has been in custody for 300 days now and her rehabilitation for a life on the outside is complete.
 
Bel added: “We are hoping that a special person or people will come forward and give PC Polly the second chance she deserves. We think even a cat with an ASBO deserves a fresh start!”
 

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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 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
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.