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BSAVA awards 2026 open for entries
Entries are open until 9 January 2026.

The awards celebrate unsung heroes within the veterinary profession.

Nominations for the 2026 BSAVA awards are now open.



Eight award categories are available this year, recognising individuals who have made significant contributions to veterinary science, research, clinical practice, education and small animal welfare.



Entries are open until 9 January 2026, and nominations are welcome from both BSAVA members and non-members. 



BSAVA honorary secretary Adam Gow said: “Each year, we’re proud to shine a spotlight on individuals who have truly made a difference in our profession. Nominating a colleague is a meaningful way to show appreciation and celebrate the impact they’ve had, so we encourage everyone to get involved and put forward those who inspire them.”



The 2026 BSAVA Award categories are:
    •    The Bourgelat Award - For outstanding international contribution to small animal practice or science in their widest context.
    •    The Simon Award - Recognising contributions to the advancement of all aspects of small animal surgery.
    •    The Woodrow Award - For significant contributions to the advancement of small animal medicine.
    •    The Des Thompson Award - New for 2026, this award recognises individuals who have had a significant impact upon general practice and/or their community.
    •    The Blaine Award - For contributions to the advancement of all aspects of non‑client facing small animal veterinary medicine.
    •    The BSAVA Veterinary Nurse Award - Recognising outstanding contributions to the advancement of small animal veterinary nursing.
    •    The Ray Butcher Award - For a non-veterinary individual who has been an ‘unsung hero’ by making a significant contribution to animal welfare in the community.
    •    The J.A. Wight Memorial Award - For a qualified veterinarian who has made an outstanding contribution to the welfare of companion animals. Presented by the Blue Cross.

Find full details and nomination forms at bsava.com/awards

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Lords Committee opens Pet Parasite Medication inquiry

The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee will launch its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medication (PPM) on Wednesday (3 June).

Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.