Nominations for nurses rise by a quarter
Petplan Awards host Gyles Brandreth, veterinary nurse of the year Tina Wright and BVNA president Kirstie Shield.
A significant hike was seen in the number of nominations for both veterinary nurses and practice managers in this year's Petplan Veterinary Awards.
Nominations for veterinary nurses saw a boost of just under 25 per cent, while practice manager nominations rose by 40 per cent.
BVNA president Kirstie Shield said the vet is usually at the forefront of the client's mind, and they do not see the work that goes on back-of-house.
"The professionalism and expertise of nurses and managers help drive a high standard of service and animal welfare," she added.
Similarly, former VPMA president Helen Sanderson said she was "delighted" at the upsurge and wants to encourage even more members to vote next year.
"Practice managers and nurses deserve this recognition," she said. "Both work very hard to support practice but don’t always get the acknowledgement for it…
"I think we can do even better, and I’d like to see nominations next year for both categories being closer to the numbers seen for the vet of the year category."
BVNA and VMPA launched a joint initiative this year, encouraging practice managers to nominate their nurses and nurses to nominate their manager for the awards.
Affectionately known as the Veterinary Oscars, the Petplan Awards are now in their fifteenth year. Kirstie Shield presented the veterinary nurse of the year award to Tina Wright at the event in early April, while Sharon Lane-Kieltyka won practice manager of the year.
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.
