New BSAVA president to build on virtual congress success
Dr Sheldon Middleton has been appointed president of the BSAVA for 2021/22.
The new president of the British Veterinary Association (BSAVA) plans to build on the success of the recent BSAVA Virtual Congress to shape his presidential year.
Dr Sheldon Middleton, who took over the role from Professor Ian Ramsey on Thursday (22 April), is managing director of RVC Veterinary Practices Ltd and principal at Acorn House Veterinary Hospital in Bedford.
A graduate of Cambridge University, he has a particular interest and a GP Certificate in ophthalmology and has been a member of the BSAVA Board for the past five years.
Dr Middleton said his goal is to shape Congress 2022 into ‘the ultimate veterinary get-together’ as the country begins to recover from the pandemic.
“We intend to build on this for BSAVA Congress 2022 by deploying a cleverly blended format to retain the high degree of accessibility and flexibility that delegates have so enjoyed this year,” he said. “We will be releasing further details on BSAVA Congress 2022 in the early summer.”
Dr Middleton also plans to focus on BSAVA’s support for the small animal veterinary community as it emerges from the pandemic.
“The profession has shown incredible resilience and dynamism in responding to the changing demands of our patients,” he continued. “But we need to be careful that this is not at the expense of our own wellbeing. BSAVA’s community support, practical education and science resources and leadership are all there to support the profession as it pivots to a new way of working.”
Professor Ian Ramsey wished Dr Middleton success in his presidential year. He commented: “With our plans for BSAVA Congress 2022 already significantly underway and our commitment to returning to a face-to-face event in Manchester in March, Sheldon has an exciting year ahead.”
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
