We’re thrilled to announce the return of IVC Evidensia’s podcast, Beyond the Clinic, for a highly anticipated third season. Created by veterinary professionals, for veterinary professionals, the podcast offers valuable insights, tips, and discussions on essential topics. Find out more about the diverse panel of seasoned experts we're hosting, as they tackle pressing issues and advancements in the field.
Clinical director of Steffan Vets and chair of the Farm Animal Clinical Board at IVC Evidensia, Jim Hopkins, discusses sustainability in farm veterinary practice. He explains how sustainability focuses on efficiency, reducing chemical and antibiotic use while improving profitability and animal welfare, and the importance of education and reframing sustainability to gain farmer engagement.
The group head for equine diagnostic imaging at IVC Evidensia, Maty Looijen shares and discusses the significance of both pre-purchase examinations and personal protective equipment in equine ambulatory practice. Maty emphasises the importance of quality imaging, seeking help when needed, and understanding radiation safety. She offers valuable advice to early-career veterinary professionals and sheds light on her passion for supporting colleagues in the field.
Dan Lewis is a dual-boarded specialist in emergency and critical care (ECC) and the national clinical lead in ECC for IVC Evidensia. He shares a glimpse into his multifaceted role and his passion for the intense and rewarding nature of ECC. He discusses the importance of awareness around heatstroke in dogs, and what veterinary professionals can do to prevent it.
Scott Rutherford is clinical director at frank.Pet Surgeons in Leeds, focusing on orthopaedics and spinal surgery. He shares his journey and insights on the Beyond the Clinic podcast. He discusses the unique model of frank.Pets, and his thoughts on orthopaedic dog health, including the importance of weight management, exercise, and diet. Drawing from his extensive career, he offers advice for aspiring orthopaedic vets.
Laura Playforth leverages her extensive veterinary background to enhance patient care across the IVC Evidensia network. Specialising in quality improvement, she focuses on driving the quality of care we deliver, which positively impacts care for millions of animals annually. Passionate about neurodiversity, she also leads the neurodiversity group. Laura demystifies quality improvement and encourages veterinary professionals to engage in simple, impactful projects.
Katy Brown’s love for animals led her to a transformative experience in Australia, where she discovered her passion for veterinary nursing. Joining Abington Park Referrals as a student nurse, she qualified in 2006 and has since pursued advanced surgical training and CPR certification. Over 22 years, she has seen the team at Abington develop and has mentored and guided many student nurses.
As the referral nurse training and development manager at IVC Evidensia, Helen Rooney focuses on upskilling nurses and enhancing patient care. In her 30-year+ career, she’s seen a significant evolution of the profession and is passionate about the crucial role of nurses in transfusion medicine, and the importance of continuous learning. She discusses her episode of the Beyond the Clinic podcast and more.
First spending time with Dragon Vets at just 16 years old, Sofia Briano shares her journey to vet school and beyond. She’s found a truly supportive environment at Dragon Vets and on the IVC Evidensia Graduate Academy programme. With a focus on high-level cases and a team of skilled colleagues, Sofia thrives in a culture of collaboration and continuous learning.
Peri Burchmore has devoted her life to the veterinary sector, starting from reception work two evenings a week and transitioning through various roles. She found her professional home at Amical Vets, embracing the values and team spirit of the practice and IVC Evidensia network. Peri's motivation stems from her lifelong love for animals and the continuous advancements in veterinary care, coupled with the dedication of her colleagues.
After becoming head nurse at one of Dragon’s branches and coaching students, Ella took an 18-month break to travel and work in Australia, gaining invaluable experience in a large referral hospital. Upon returning to Dragon Vets, Ella brought back enhanced skills in internal medicine and surgical nursing. Committed to animal care since childhood, she thrives on the variety and complexity of cases at Dragon Vets. Proud of her career progression and role as a clinical coach, Ella continues to find fulfilment in her work every day.
Clinical director Rolf Koenen has found his professional home at Victoria Veterinary Practice in South Wales. Driven by a passion for animal care and the ever-evolving field of veterinary medicine, Rolf has thrived in this supportive environment. Enjoying the diversity of cases, and the close-knit team and advanced facilities. He tells us about saving a tiny chihuahua puppy who is now the heart of his busy household, and his love of motorbiking.
Yasemin Beckram's journey to becoming a veterinarian started early, with a lifelong dream fulfilled when she graduated from Liverpool University in 2002. Part of the team at Dave Cumber Vets in Weymouth, Yasemin highlights the unique environment of the practice, founded on a strong legacy and equipped with advanced facilities, which ensures comprehensive care for pets. Reflecting on her career, Yasemin takes pride in maintaining her passion and delivering quality care to her patients daily.
Fern Bradley shares her work with The Vet Clinic including her proudest moments so far - becoming a clinical coach and pursuing an emergency and critical care certificate. Supported by IVC Evidensia's commitment to professional development, Fern looks forward to applying newfound skills within the practice.
Dedicated head nurse Emma shares her path to joining Bridge Vets and the driving force behind her passion for veterinary care. She offers insights into the dynamic environment and diverse cases the team handle. Caring is part of her work and home life, with a beloved rescue dog that requires continuous nursing care.
Motivated by a deep commitment to helping pets and their owners, Antonio Betancor thrives in his role as deputy clinical director at Lockwood Vets in the West Midlands. He describes the practice’s supportive environment and team camaraderie. Offering insights into the cases they handle, Antonio emphasises the practice's commitment to continuous learning and development as well.
Andrew Kent, clinical director at Blaise Referrals, shares insights into his career journey and the rewards of being part of a brand-new referral hospital service. With a background as a medicine specialist, Andrew’s role as clinical director involves balancing clinical and leadership roles, ensuring seamless patient care across departments. Emphasising a multidisciplinary approach, he highlights the collaborative environment at Blaise. He discusses the excitement for future growth and the emotional journey of bringing Blaise to life.
Briony and Gemma, both integral members of the De Montfort Vets team, share their unique career paths and experiences. Briony's journey spans over two decades, from starting as a nursing trainee to becoming head nurse, while vet Gemma joined through the IVC Evidensia Graduate Academy program and found her place in the practice. They discuss their motivations for working in the veterinary industry, the supportive culture at De Montfort Vets, and the diverse range of learning opportunities available there.
With a career spanning over two decades, Karen Offord shares her journey from starting as an RVN to her current role, highlighting the support and opportunities provided by IVC Evidensia along the way. Motivated by a lifelong love for animals, she discusses the unique challenges and rewards of working in the veterinary industry. Karen paints a vivid picture of the practice's warm and welcoming atmosphere, emphasising the strong team bond and commitment to team wellbeing.
When Rhiannon Keen joined the team at White House Vets, she began a fulfilling journey in veterinary care. From the animals they seat the practice to the fantastic team camaraderie, she finds joy amidst the picturesque setting of Malvern, At home, her rescued pet companions Nacho the staffy and Hermes the cat are learning to get along!
Find out how surgical resident Callum Sharps' exposure to diverse specialities and mentorship shaped his decision to pursue a residency, and how it feels to transition from intern to resident, and beyond.
Hannah Fletcher brings over two decades of expertise and a passion for animal welfare to Carmel Vets. With a focus on fear-free practices and fostering a supportive team environment, the team strives to make a positive impact on both pets and their owners.
Dedicated RVN Melissa Barnett shares her journey at easipetcare. Supported by the practice, Melissa implements innovative protocols and quality improvement initiatives, making a meaningful impact on nursing care. With a close-knit team and modern facilities, easipetcare provides a supportive and progressive environment for professional growth.
Katie Langley, RVN and nurse manager at Carmel Vets, shares her inspiring journey in veterinary care, fuelled by a lifelong love for animals. Dedicated to providing top-tier patient care, Carmel Vets is known for its supportive culture and commitment to excellence. At home, Logan the dog, Timmy the tortoise, and Ralph and Rosie the chickens bring joy.
We caught up with Victoria Roberts, a resident in small animal surgery to find out more about her experiences during her residency at Pride Veterinary Referrals and her advice and tips for those considering a residency.
Luke McBlain is a newly graduated mixed practice vet and member of the IVC Evidensia Graduate Academy programme. He shares how IVC Evidensia has supported his development, what he’s excited about achieving next, and the experience of going from vet school into his first role with a vet practice. Luke offers invaluable advice and emphasises the importance of exploring various experiences and considering the full package when choosing your career path.
Head nurse at White House Vets, Katrina Davis, shares insights into her remarkable 20-year journey in the veterinary field. From her early days as a clinical nursing manager to becoming a lecturer and OSCE examiner she tells us about these different experiences in the veterinary industry. With a passion for teaching and coaching, she’s a key part of the team at White House Vets.
Talent partner Julia explores the philosophy behind talent development at IVC Evidensia, and the balanced approach of our Graduate Academy program. She outlines the diverse opportunities for career progression available to graduates, and gives valuable advice on the application process.
Mollie discusses her experience working at Ark Vets. Drawn by the friendly atmosphere and support, Mollie's role as a receptionist involves diverse responsibilities, from client interactions to supporting the daily running of the practice. With her love for animals and experience working on a farm, Mollie is passionate about what she does.
Nestled in the heart of the charming West Country town of Melksham, The Beeches Veterinary Centre is a first-opinion practice committed to providing excellence in animal care. Find out more about what makes The Beeches such a great place to work, and about opportunities to join the team.
Find out more about the unique features of the program and some top tips for your application. Christopher discusses the Graduate Academy's commitment to support and development, why graduate programmes are a great start to your career journey, and how to make the best impression at interview.
Amelia is a Student Veterinary Nurse at Alexander Vets. Her love of animals and dedication to becoming an RVN is embodied in her daily work with the practice, as part of a friendly and supportive team.
Jake Chitty talks about his experience working at East Neuk, where he’s a key part of the orthopaedic team. He gives some valuable advice for those aspiring to pursue a career in orthopaedic surgery and discusses his hopes, goals, and proudest achievements in the field.
Amy Palmer is part of the fantastic team at the Vet Centre. She reveals her passion for animals, her transition into the veterinary field from her previous career in childcare, and the diverse and exciting caseload at The Vet Centre. Beyond the clinic, Amy spends her time with her chocolate Labrador Bear and loves to crochet.
Small animal surgery specialist Hugo Schmökel delves into the fascinating link between Pleistocene predators and modern pet diseases. His groundbreaking research sheds light on the shared skeletal challenges faced by ancient predators and today's domestic animals, emphasising the urgent need to address genetic predispositions to these conditions in modern-day pets.
Collins Anidebe is a vet student at Gatehouse Vets, having qualified with a DVM in Nigeria he’s on his way to becoming licenced as a veterinary surgeon in the UK, with the support of the team at Gatehouse. He shares why he made the move to the UK to advance his veterinary career and the spirit of inclusivity and support that characterises Gatehouse Vets. The practice's friendly culture, experienced mentors, and emphasis on well-being make it an exceptional place to be.
Dedicated vet Axelle Castelli shares her journey into researching osteochondrodysplasia in Scottish fold cats and the promising role of brachytherapy in alleviating the condition's effects, with the support of her mentor Luis. Axelle’s work was recognised with an award for her poster presentation at the recent ECVS conference.
Vet nurse Jodie Derricott shares her journey to becoming a vet nurse, and the amazing team spirit that’s brought her back to the practice that began her career at Darley House
Nicholas Cameron shares his insights into the remarkable longevity of team members at Darley House, the welcoming and supportive work environment, and opportunities for professional development. He highlights a memorable case that showcases the team's dedication and expertise.
James McMurrough is a passionate advanced practitioner in veterinary cardiology and internal medicine. He shares valuable advice for veterinary professionals considering the AP certificate or specialisation, why teaching is so important to him, and his love for music.
National medicine lead and internal medicine clinician Lucie shares why she loves combining working in referrals and her leadership role. She tells us how she's making a positive impact, why she's deeply passionate about the veterinary profession and making things the best they can be for everyone involved, and her adventures camping in the Canadian Rockies.
Lauren Riley is a veterinary nurse, working as part of the diagnostic imaging team at Vets Now in Glasgow. They are a key member of the team there and help provide the vital service of diagnosis and treatment support that the diagnostic imaging team offers.
Head of soft tissue at Blaise Referrals Lara Dempsey, shares how she overcame her disappointment at not getting the grades she needed in her A-Levels and turned that into the motivation to not only become a vet anyway, but to achieving specialist status, and her new role with Blaise Referrals in Birmingham.
Vet nurse Louise Farricker has found career progression and a team she loves being part of with Crown House Vets. Hear about her journey, and the opportunities she's welcomed to grow her career and become Practice Director, with IVC Evidensia.
Lubos Kustra recently won an award at the IVC Brilliant People Awards for his groundbreaking work with the team at Eastbourne Vets. He shares how he inspires his team, how they’ve come together to embrace innovation and deliver exceptional care, and how playing football supports his mental wellbeing.