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Leadership video released to mark VNAM
“As I’ve mentioned, whether it’s specialising, leadership, teaching or research, RVNs have so many transferable skills that can be used across the sector in many different roles” – Betsy Malamah-Thomas.
Short film features a nursing and clinical support manager.

The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) has released a short film showcasing a veterinary nurse in a leadership role to mark Veterinary Nursing Awareness Month (VNAM).

Part of the college’s Leadership Stories series, the film features Betsy Malamah-Thomas, nursing and clinical support manager at the Royal Veterinary College’s Queen Mother Hospital for Animals.

In the video, Ms Malamah-Thomas talks about her role at the hospital, how she got into the veterinary sector, and the importance of showcasing diverse leaders and career opportunities to help increase the diversity of people working in the profession.

Gurpreet Gill, RCVS leadership and inclusion manager, said: “The theme for VNAM this year is ‘progression’, and we hope that this film will inspire members of the veterinary community, or those aspiring to become members, to find their own inner leaders.

“There are so many different opportunities working in the veterinary sector, but it’s often difficult to know what could be possible.

“We hope, that by sharing the leadership stories of people like Betsy, we can help demystify the landscape slightly and help to show people that there are many opportunities out there that they may not have previously considered or even be aware of.”

Ms Malamah-Thomas added: “It was a brilliant opportunity to work with the team at the RCVS on such an important project. As I’ve mentioned, whether it’s specialising, leadership, teaching or research, RVNs have so many transferable skills that can be used across the sector in many different roles.”

The film, alongside others in the Leadership Stories series, can be viewed on YouTube.

Image © Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.