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Vets Express Gratitude for Work of Vet Nurses
Noel Fitzpatrick
BVNA Congress draws attention to crucial work of veterinary nurses. 

The annual congress of the British Veterinary Nursing Association draws to its conclusion today, after three days of quality CPD, workshops, exhibitions and socials.

Yesterday saw a wide range of events including the BVNA award ceremony, which was opened by Noel Fitzpatrick, the “bionic vet.” In an engaging address to the delegates, he made a heartfelt declaration of gratitude to the role of the veterinary nurse in the care of animals, the support of veterinary surgeons and the running of the practice.

He drew attention to the “hundreds” of jobs vet nurses perform in the surgery which he, as the surgeon, “cannot do” and stressed that without nurses, vets would be incapable of working.

Similarly, Carl Padgett, President of the British Veterinary Association visited Congress on Saturday and expressed his admiration for the BVNA.

He commented: “BVNA have matured into a serious representative body and BVA are proud to support them.”

Congress has been running since Friday 7th October and the last lectures will end this afternoon, Sunday 9th October.

The Kettering Conference Centre in Northamptonshire has been host to hundreds of delegates from all over the UK attending the 38th annual BVNA Congress.

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Vets launch new podcast for pet owners

News Story 1
 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.

The venture, called Vets Talking Pets, provides advice and information on a range of topics, including how to select a suitable pet, where to obtain them and how to get the best out of your vet. Maggie and Vanessa will also discuss sensitive subjects, including end-of-life care, raw food diets and the cost of veterinary care.

The podcast can be found on all the usual podcast sites, including Podbean, Apple, Amazon Music and YouTube. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
RCVS Regional Question Time heads to Edinburgh

The RCVS is to bring its Regional Question Time (RQT) to Edinburgh for 2026.

The event will take place at Novotel Edinburgh Park in Edinburgh on Wednesday, 20 May 2026.

It will begin with supper and drinks at 6.30pm, with an evening programme from 7.30pm. This will start with an update on RCVS' activities, followed by questions and answers with representatives.

RCVS is encouraging an 'open dialogue', in which queries can be raised in a friendly, informal environment.

While discussions are expected to be audience-led, the RQT is expected address major issues including the VSA, the CMA's remedy package and the VN Vision project.

Tim Parkin, RCVS president, said: "It's an important time for the professions, and I'm looking forward to meeting colleagues in Scotland as we navigate this period of change together so we can come out stronger."

Tickets can be booked here.