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Bustling congress winds down
BVNA's 40th annual event draws to a close

An event which has been both inspirational and educational, this year's BVNA Congress - now in its 40th year - has championed the role of the veterinary nurse, as well as providing top quality CPD.

Delegates at this year's bustling event have enjoyed a fantastic and varied scientific programme, covering everything from management to research and critical care.

On top of this, the congress has provided the opportunity to catch up with the latest veterinary products on the market, and network with other veterinary nurses and members of the profession in a relaxed but vibrant setting.

A keynote speech by James Yeates, the chief veterinary officer at the RSPCA, underlined the role that nurses have to play in the development of the veterinary profession as a whole.

In particular, he championed the empathy and communication that veterinary nurses can build with clients, making them a valuable asset when it comes to euthanasia discussions and cases of domestic abuse, for example.

Furthermore, this year's congress saw a number of veterinary nurses honoured for their extraordinary contribution to the profession and excellent client care, with Sarah Reed crowned this year's Veterinary Nurse of the Year.

Lectures throughout the three-day event have covered key topical issues, including recognising and dealing with pet obesity, emerging equine diseases, mental health and addictions in the veterinary profession and a talk on the future of the Practice Standards Scheme, given by RCVS vice-president Jacqui Molyneux.

Yet another hugely successful congress was concluded today with the BVNA's annual general meeting (AGM), which saw junior vice-president Kirstie Shield welcomed as incoming president.

Delegates are now starting to filter off to the final lectures of the day and exhibitors will soon begin the process of packing up and heading home. Having gained truly high quality CPD hours over the past three days, it is safe to say that this year's event will remain in the minds of delegates for many months to come.

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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...
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.