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Retired service animals charity reaches grant milestone
RPD Jango is one of the dogs supported by the charity.
The NFRSA has helped owners access veterinary care.

A charity which provides financial assistance for retired service animals in need of veterinary care is celebrating reaching a major milestone.

The National Foundation for Retired Service Animals (NFRSA), which was launched in 2022, has now provided more than £100,000 in grants in just two years.

Because of their age and the work they have done, it can be harder to access affordable pet insurance for retired service animals. The NFRSA has provided support to dogs and horses which have worked in sectors including the police, fire and rescue, the prison service, Border Force, the National Crime Agency, and the NHS.

The grants have helped owners afford a wide range of veterinary treatments, from regular medications to major operations.

The charity has worked to ensure that the retired animals have received the care they need right up until the end of their lives. In one case, the charity provided a grant of just over £1,500 to cover the cost of RPD Jango,  a German shepherd who had retired from Police Scotland, being put to sleep after he was diagnosed with an aggressive cancer.

The Countess Bathurst, founder and chair of the NFRSA, said: “Reaching the £100,000 milestone is a truly humbling moment for all of us at the NFRSA.

“These grants represent our unwavering commitment to supporting the retired service animals who have given so much to us all. Their bravery and dedication deserve nothing less, and we are honoured to play a part in ensuring their wellbeing in retirement.

“None of this would be possible without the generosity of our supporters, donors, and the incredible work of our volunteers. Together, we are making a real difference in the lives of these remarkable animals and their devoted owners.”

Image © NFRSA

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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.