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Animal charities urge supporters to join 2.6 challenge
The 2.6 challenge comes amidst the cancellation of thousands of charity events and fundraising activities.
Initiative to help fill the fundraising gap left by the COVID-19 pandemic

Animal charities across the UK are calling on supporters to join the 2.6 challenge to help them through the COVID-19 pandemic.

The RSPCA, Support Dogs, Worldwide Veterinary Service and Wild Welfare and just some of the animal organisations urging people to get involved in the initiative, which encourages fundraising activities based around the number 26 or 2.6.

The week-long challenge kicks off on Sunday, 26 April, when the London Marathon would have held its 40th event. In 2019, the Marathon raised over £66.4m for charity and is a vital source of income for many animal organisations.

It comes amidst the cancellation of thousands of charity events and loss of income through fundraising initiatives. Without this finding, many charities have had no option but to reduce or stop services altogether, and many may not survive the coming months.

Participants are being urged to get involved in the 2.6 challenge in any way they choose, be that dancing to 26 songs in a row or running 2.6 miles as part of their daily exercise. There are lots of fun and creative ideas listed on the 2.6 challenge website, as well as from the charities that are involved.

Once a challenge has been selected, participants are encouraged to visit the 2.6 challenge JustGiving page, select their chosen charity and make a donation. They can then spread the word to their friends and family under the official hashtag  #TwoPointSixChallenge.

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BSAVA partners with BVA Live 2026

News Story 1
 BSAVA is to partner with BVA Live (11-12 June 2026) to champion clinical research.

The organisation will be supporting BVA Live's Clinical Abstracts programme, showcasing selected abstracts of veterinary research throughout the event.

The clinical abstracts can be on any small animal veterinary subject, and must be based on research undertaken in industry, practice or academia. Abstracts can be presented in poster or oral formats.

Submissions will open on 15th December 2025, and close on 6th March 2026. You can register interest here

Click here for more...
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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.