This year’s campaign theme is compassion and empathy.
Veterinary Nursing Awareness Month (VNAM) 2026 gets underway today (1 May), which this year follows the presidential theme of ‘compassion and empathy’.
Held annually, VNAM is organised by the BVNA to raise awareness of the profession and animal caregivers.
Under the theme chosen by BVNA president Sarah Holliday, the month aims to champion the varied and skilled work that veterinary nurses undertake every day.
It aims to highlight the vital role of veterinary nurses in advocating for animal welfare, showcase the diversity of career paths into the profession and raise awareness of why the ‘VN’ title must be protected in law.
This year, BVNA is seeking nominations from veterinary clients and colleagues to recognise the “unsung heroes” of the profession. One winner and runner-up will be selected from both individual and team entries, with a prize of £250 up for grabs.
BVNA President said: “As BVNA launches this year’s VNAM, I am looking forward to seeing all the creative ways that BVNA members and the wider veterinary profession are showcasing veterinary nursing to the public this month.
“Veterinary nurses are powerful advocates for animal welfare, and ours is a profession that truly cares – whether for our patients, clients, or the colleagues around us. I hope that the entire profession can use this month to celebrate the recognition of veterinary nurses’ important role in animal welfare, public health, and in society.”
She added: “At BVNA, we encourage the whole veterinary profession to get behind the VNAM campaign. Whether educating pet owners, sharing BVNA’s social media posts throughout May, or submitting a nomination of an ‘Unsung Hero’ – this all helps to raise awareness of the incredible work carried out by veterinary nurses every day.”
VNAM can be followed on BVNA social media and via the hashtags #VNAM2026 #WhatVNsDo #CompassionAndEmpathy
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.
