Prestigious lifetime memberships awarded by BVNA
Sue Badger (left) receiving her award from outgoing BVNA president Louisa Baker
During its recent congress, the British Veterinary Nursing Association (BVNA) awarded three prestigious lifetime honorary memberships, to Sue Badger, Julian Hoad and Dr Anne McBride.
Incoming president of the BVNA, Kirstie Shield, first welcomed Sue Badger to the stage and spoke of the influence that she has had on veterinary nursing, having been a prominent figure in the profession for many years.
Sue has served two separate terms on the BVNA Council, and was the association's president during 2010-11.
Commenting on her achievements, Kirstie said that Sue has worked extremely hard to develop the BVNA members' publication, the Veterinary Nursing Journal (VNJ), into a more professional source of information and education. Sue is currently the journal's Editor-in-Chief.
In addition, Sue represents the BVNA and veterinary nursing profession as a whole in her position on the RCVS VN Legislative Working Party, offering her insight, knowledge and experience.
Kirstie concluded by saying that it is an honour, not just to know Sue, but to work as part of a profession which has been so positively influenced by her.
Also to receive an honorary membership was Julian Hoad, who wrote the Handbook of Surgical Nursing for Veterinary Nurses in 2006. He was also asked to speak at the BVNA Roadshow this year, giving a series of anaesthetic lectures across the country.
In addition, Julian assists the BVNA Congress Committee by selecting topics and sourcing lecturers for the scientific programme.
Finally, Dr Anne McBride was awarded membership for her years of dedicated work and support for the veterinary profession. Anne has been asked to speak at BVNA congresses on a number of occasions and she also assists the association with putting together the scientific programme.
Along with Sarah Heath and John Fisher, Anne was instrumental in setting up the first course in animal behaviour counselling at Southampton University. She has also been a speaker for the BVNA's Companion Animal Behaviour Course since its inception.
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
