covers a wide range of activities, including being an expert witness in legal cases.
London Vet Show session highlights limitless opportunities
“I am a vet and have an exciting non-clinical career”. This was the opening statement made by Milorad Radakovic in his lecture at London Vet Show this morning (17 November).
Mr Radakovic began his presentation by talking about the role of vets in the Veterinary Public Health Association (VPHA) and then went on to describe the non-clinical work carried out by vets that are not in practice.
His work covers a wide range of activities from wildlife surveillance to meat certification, being an expert witness in legal cases to educational roles, and work with the Food Standards Agency. His message was that non-clinical veterinary careers can be exciting and worthwhile.
The second speaker in this session was Hannah Jordan, policy officer for the BVA. Hannah described her career pathway, which started with working as a veterinary intern for Lord Trees.
She talked about the qualities vets have and the practical and academic skills, professionalism and leadership skills which make them suitable for so many careers in areas. Hannah works in government, but such skills can also be applied to business and commerce, teaching, research and policy making.
Both speakers voiced the opinion that vets who did not work in practice often felt that they had to apologise for not being 'a real vet'. They emphasised the important roles non-clinical vets play and their role in protecting both animal and human health and welfare.
In many ways, the speakers are a good example of the One Health concept and the discussion following the session centred on how the work of the non-clinical vet could be better promoted to the public.
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.
