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Heroic terrier saves owner’s life
Battersea
Iain, Jane and Dexter.

Raised alarm after owner suffered anaphylactic shock  
 
A six-year-old terrier has gone from rescue dog to superdog after helping to save his new owner’s life.

Dexter the Patterdale Terrier was rehomed to Jane and Iain in Barnehurst, Kent, after spending almost at month at Battersea Brands Hatch.

While out running one morning, Iain was stung by a bee, which resulted in him going into anaphylactic shock and collapsing. This severe allergic reaction is very serious and can often prove fatal.

Luckily, Dexter was with Iain at the time and was able to draw attention to his owner's plight by barking and running frantically back and forth until another dog walker found them.

The dog walker called for an ambulance and, following some time in hospital, Iain has thankfully made a full recovery.

Iain Rowland said: “Jane and I are so proud of Dexter and we have a lot to thank him for. He played a critical part in raising the alarm by finding help and stayed by my side until the ambulance turned up.

"He has more than demonstrated his loyalty to us and we are so glad we decided to come to Battersea Brands Hatch to rehome another rescue dog, Dexter is now the third dog that we have rehomed from Battersea since 1995. Our Dexter says that every home should have a dog, as they may just save your life!”
 
Michelle Bevan, rehoming and welfare manager of Battersea Brands Hatch, said: “We were absolutely delighted to hear Dexter’s story after getting to know him whilst he was in our care and we were relieved to hear that Iain has made a full recovery.
 
“We rehome around 400 dogs every year and love to hear how they are settling into their new homes but were especially pleased to hear about Dexter’s brave behaviour. This is an amazing example of what rescue dogs can be like and we would urge people to consider coming to our centre to give the rest of our courageous canines the second chance in life they all deserve.” 

Image (C) Battersea Dogs and Cats Home

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Vets launch new podcast for pet owners

News Story 1
 Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.

The venture, called Vets Talking Pets, provides advice and information on a range of topics, including how to select a suitable pet, where to obtain them and how to get the best out of your vet. Maggie and Vanessa will also discuss sensitive subjects, including end-of-life care, raw food diets and the cost of veterinary care.

The podcast can be found on all the usual podcast sites, including Podbean, Apple, Amazon Music and YouTube. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
RCVS Regional Question Time heads to Edinburgh

The RCVS is to bring its Regional Question Time (RQT) to Edinburgh for 2026.

The event will take place at Novotel Edinburgh Park in Edinburgh on Wednesday, 20 May 2026.

It will begin with supper and drinks at 6.30pm, with an evening programme from 7.30pm. This will start with an update on RCVS' activities, followed by questions and answers with representatives.

RCVS is encouraging an 'open dialogue', in which queries can be raised in a friendly, informal environment.

While discussions are expected to be audience-led, the RQT is expected address major issues including the VSA, the CMA's remedy package and the VN Vision project.

Tim Parkin, RCVS president, said: "It's an important time for the professions, and I'm looking forward to meeting colleagues in Scotland as we navigate this period of change together so we can come out stronger."

Tickets can be booked here.