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Stowaway gecko found inside box of musical instruments
The tiny gecko scuttled out of a shipment of musical instruments.
Asian House Gecko travelled 4,800 miles from China to Kent.

A gecko who travelled thousands of miles across the world inside a box of musical instruments is seeking its forever home after being rescued by the RSPCA. 

The surprising stowaway survived a 4,800-mile journey inside a sealed ocean container that had travelled from China to Kent. It was not until three months later when staff at the musical instrument company finally opened the shipment that the little creature was found.

“It’s amazing that this little gecko survived such a long journey and such a long time shut inside the sealed packaging but they were able to confine him and then called us for help,” commented RSPCA animal rescuer Clive Hopwood. 

Mr Hopwood took the gecko - who has been affectionately named ‘Thin Lizard’ – to experts at Brighton Reptile Rescue where it was identified as an Asian House Gecko. It will now remain at the centre until a specialist home can be found.

The RSPCA said the gecko was lucky to survive so long - particularly over the winter months - without specialist equipment to regulate temperature. It added that it hopes the gecko’s remarkable trip will remind holidaymakers to always check their cases thoroughly before heading home in case they too pick up a surprising stowaway. 

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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.