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Rehomed pig delivers surprise for new owners
Pifgs
Charlotte gave birth to a litter of seven pigs.

Crossbreed Charlotte gives birth to seven piglets 

A pig which was rescued and re-homed after she was discovered roaming the fields of Middlesborough, has surprised her new owners by giving birth to seven piglets.

Charlotte, a small crossbreed, was found by RSPCA officers earlier this year following reports of a 'mysterious, dark beast' wandering around countryside.

After a member of the public confirmed seeing a small black pig, RSPCA officers attended, but Charlotte had already vanished.

Finally, after another caller reported that a pig was in his garden, deputy chief inspector John Lawson attended the property and collected the animal.

Inspector Lawson said: “Charlotte was very friendly so we were sure she had been somebody’s pet previously. After we took her to a boarding farm to be cared for, nobody came forward to claim her, so we found a lovely new home where she settled in quickly.

“She proved difficult to catch, maybe because she felt particularly vulnerable due to her pregnant state, although we did not realise this at the time.

“The new owners said Charlotte settled in straight away; they even discovered she likes to play with a football. But they became concerned recently when they noticed her teats had become enlarged.

“We are delighted to hear that she is not only well, but that she has had a healthy litter of piglets. We will be keeping in touch with the new owners and look forward to hearing about her progress.” 

Image (C) RSPCA

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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.