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How much do you know about reindeer?
"Reindeer may not be pets, but they are still for life not just for Christmas!"

BVA and Veterinary Deer Society launch festive quiz

Looking for something to do with the family this Christmas? Then why not give the BVA’s festive challenge a try!

Launched in collaboration with the Veterinary Deer Society (VDS), the “Who ‘nose’ the real facts about Rudolph quiz’ will reveal how much we really know about Santa's red-nosed helper.

Like all animals in the UK, reindeer are safeguarded by the Animal Welfare Acts, which outline the five welfare needs that an animal keeper must provide by law.

For reindeer, which have specific welfare needs, this includes having adequate access to roam and being kept in social groups.

During Christmas events, reindeer owners should make sure their animals are comfortable with being handled and transported. They should also ensure their animals are given plenty of opportunities to rest.

“Vets are the go-to people for animal advice in communities across the UK,” commented Gudrun Ravetz, president of the BVA. “This Christmas we’re hoping to share the cheer with Santa’s four-legged helpers by offering fun facts that will benefit any reindeer people come into contact with.”

Dr Pete Goddard of the VDS added: “Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer is part of Christmas for all of us and we know people love to interact with reindeer at live displays, which can be fun and educational for everyone so long as the animals’ welfare needs come first.

“As vets we’d really like the UK public, who are well-known for their love of animals, to start thinking about reindeer all year round. After all, reindeer may not be pets, but they are still for life not just for Christmas!”

Image (C) Heather Sunderland

 

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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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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.