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Vet with MS to give BVA keynote speech
Dr Connell is a trustee for the Scottish SPCA.
Dr Niall Connell will talk about his ‘pure squinty’ career.

Veterinary surgeon Dr Niall Connell is set to deliver the keynote speech at this year’s British Veterinary Association (BVA) Members’ Day on 28 September 2023.

His speech, titled ‘Transforming Challenges into Opportunities: Lessons learned from a pure squinty career’, will focus on the challenges he has overcome during his career in the veterinary profession. Squinty, or squint, is a Scottish dialect term for something that is not straight.

After being diagnosed with secondary progressive multiple sclerosis in 2003, when he was in his early forties, Dr Connell continued to work in clinical practice for six years before moving into other veterinary roles. He has sat on the RCVS Council for ten years and served as RCVS president from 2019 to 2020. He is also a trustee for the Scottish SPCA.

Earlier this year, the University of Edinburgh awarded him an honorary doctorate in veterinary medicine and surgery for championing equality and diversity and acting as a positive role model.

Looking ahead to the speech, Dr Connell said: “It’s a real privilege to be asked to speak at BVA Members’ Day to so many peers from our wonderful profession. My talk will provide a brief, upbeat overview of my career which, due to chronic illness, became ‘pure squinty’.

“It will cover ill health, uncertainty, isolation and the importance of support during difficult times. I will mention barriers and opportunities for the individual professional and the future of our profession, especially regarding recruitment and retention, including veterinary nurses and undergraduates.”

BVA president Malcolm Morley added: “Dr Connell’s career in the veterinary profession has been inspiring, from his dedicated work in mixed and then charity practice, through to his time as RCVS president and his work on Widening Participation including with Glasgow Vet School. We are delighted to host him as keynote speaker at this year’s BVA Members’ Day and I’m sure his speech will be a highlight of the day.”

The annual BVA Members’ Day will take place at Trades Hall, Glasgow.

 

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.