Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast FIVP Practice Matters

Welcome back to Practice Matters, the podcast that champions independent veterinary practices and the brilliant people within them. In this episode, we're reflecting on FIVP's recent appearance at the University of Liverpool Vet School's Career Fair in May. It was a fantastic opportunity for us to get in front of the next generation of veterinary professionals and share what makes independent practice such a rewarding and fulfilling career path.

From clinical autonomy to genuine community connection, we were there to fly the flag for independents and show students that there's a vibrant, values-driven alternative to the corporate route. We'll share some highlights and thoughts from the day.

We've also got updates on two things worth knowing about: BERNARD FROST provides details of the upcoming BSAVA LUMOS platform, a fresh approach to CPD that's generating real buzz across the profession, and we shine a spotlight on new FIVP member Ardsley Vets, a brand new independentpractice in West Yorkshire.

And if you would like YOUR practice to be featured onPractice Matters, simply send us a voice note or message to 07709 83 68 65

In this ‘Practice Matters’ episode, we're joined by ANDY DONLEY from Practice Made Purrfect to tackle one of the most common - and quietly costly - problems in vet marketing: sounding exactly like everyone else.

If your website says "we treat your pet like family," you're in good company.  But Andy explains why phrases like that have stopped doing any real work, and what practices can do instead to build messaging that is genuinely theirs.

With the CMA remedies now pushing for greater consistency across the profession, the ability to articulate what makes your practice truly different has never mattered more. Andy shares practical ways to uncover your real differentiators, turn everyday details into compelling messages, and find the confidence to say something that actually stands out.

How is your practice truly unique?  As ever, we would love to hear from your practice.  Send us a voice note or message via WhatsApp to 07709 83 68 65

For more details about the work of Practice Made Purrfect - visit https://www.practicemadepurrfect.com/

In this special edition of FIVP Practice Matters, recorded at a landmark parliamentary reception at Westminster hosted by Cats Protection, Ian Wolstenholme is joined by JOHANNA BAXTER MP, Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Cats, JOHN MAY, Chief Executive of Cats Protection, KIT STURGESS, Chair of Trustees at Cats Protection and IZZY HOCKING, vet and Senior Veterinary Engagement Manager.

Together, they explore the growing momentum behind improving feline welfare in the UK, discussing the challenges of securing legislative reform, the need for stronger regulation of cat breeding, and why cats continue to lag behind dogs in terms of welfare protections despite being the nation's most popular pet.

The conversation highlights the vital role of veterinary professionals, charities, policymakers and cat owners in driving change, while offering practical insights into understanding feline behaviour, recognising signs of pain, and advocating for better outcomes for cats. It's a thought-provoking discussion about partnership, persistence and the collective responsibility to see the world through a cat's eyes.

As ever, we'd love to hear from your practice. Send us a voice note via WhatsApp to 07709 83 68 65

In this episode of Practice Matters, we sit down with IMOGEN BURROWS, President of the British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA), to explore the real landscape of equine veterinary practice today.

With a career rooted in first-opinion equine work, Imogen brings a refreshingly grounded perspective to the role. From her presidential theme of "Everyday Welfare" to the pressures facing independent practices around recruitment, retention, and burnout, this is a candid conversation about what it truly means to work in equine medicine — and what the profession must do to support the vets within it.

As ever, we would love to hear from your practice.  Send us a voice note or message via WhatsApp to 07709 836865

They've been part of veterinary medicines legislation since 2005, yet the three letters SQP are still not as widely recognised as they perhaps should be. That's about to change.

For the very first time, the profession is marking a dedicatedNational SQP Week, running from 5th to 12th June 2026 — a landmark moment for a qualification that has quietly underpinned the safe distribution of veterinary medicines for decades. In this episode of Practice Matters, we're joined by CAROLINE JOHNSON, Director of Vetpol, to explore what National SQP Week means for the profession, how to get involved, and why this milestone is long overdue.

As ever, we would love to hear from your practice.  Send us a voice note or message via WhatsApp to 07709 836865

For more information about National SQP Week, visit https://vetpol.uk/vetpol-sqp-why-choose-us/national-sqp-week-5-12-june-2026/

When a critical patient arrives and every second counts, access to blood products can mean the difference between life and death. But what does it actually take to keep thoselifesaving supplies available around the clock? In this episode of Practice Matters, we're joined by LARA HOWE, Clinical Supervisor and Veterinary Surgeon at Pet Blood Bank UK — the country's leading canine blood bank charity and the animal equivalent of the NHS blood service. From donor eligibility and blood typing to the journey of a single unit from donation session to emergency ward, we're exploring everything veterinary teams need to know about canine blood transfusion.

As ever, we would love to hear from your practice. Send us a voice note or message via WhatsApp to 07709 836865

For more information about the Pet Blood Bank UK charity, visit

https://www.petbloodbankuk.org/

With 61% of the veterinary profession now female, personal safety has never been more relevant — yet it remains one of the most overlooked conversations in the industry. 

In this episode, Ian Wolstenholme speaks with JESSICA JONES, founder of Amazonia School of Self Protection, about what it truly means to protect yourself in a caring profession. 

From lone working and aggressive clients to boundary-setting and post-incident recovery, Jessica shares practical strategies and powerful mindset shifts for female vets and vet nurses navigating real-world risk. 

Because a profession that gives so much to others must also equip its people to stay safe.

As ever we would love to hear from your practice. Send us a voice message via WhatsApp to 07709 83 68 65

https://www.facebook.com/AmazoniaSOSP/

Our veterinary profession is (fortunately) blessed in the modern age with lots of support for colleagues struggling with their mental health wellbeing.  Oftentimes, this care is drawn upon when problems have manifested.  Our guest onthis edition of Practice Matters, GEORGINA HILLS from Vetamorphosis, joins Ian to talk through how practice leaders and team members can look for the subtle signs of mental distress before they reach that crisis point.  George discusses this with the benefit of a ‘dual lens’ – she is a long-time experienced veterinary nurse, practice manager who in2022 made the courageous choice to transition into the third sector as a Community and Mental Health Advocate withing the NHS and is now also a Transactional Psychotherapist with Vetamorphosis.

As ever, we would love to hear from your practice if you have been affected by any of the issues raised.  Send us a voicenote to 07709 83 68 65

https://www.vetamorphosis.co.uk

https://www.vetlife.org.uk/

It’s our 10-year anniversary! 

To celebrate a decade of FIVP representing independent practices, Ian Wolstenholme and the FIVP team reflect on the organisation’s humble origins and look to the future for the sector. Joining Ian is chairperson Rita Dingwall, co-founder Jacqui Garrett and administrator Ruth Cleaver. 

FIVP was founded in 2016 as a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to securing a future for independent practices. We work closely with practice owners and managers, ensuring they have they are supported and represented to grow their business. 

Don’t forget to share how your practice showcases its independence! Whether you are an FIVP member or not, we want to hear how your stories about engaging with your community. Send a voice note via WhatsApp to 07709 836865 

On this edition of Practice Matters we hear about some of the latest practice support strategies around the RCVS Mind Matters Initiative.  The College Lead RAPINDERNEWTON tells us about the new Academy courses for Managers, MMI online workshops and Applied Mental Health Science, as well as guidance for the forthcoming requirement as part of the Practice Standards Scheme to have a Suicide Prevention Plan in place.  We also meet Professor Elinor O’Connor from the Alliance Business School at the University of Manchester - one of the 2025 Research Grant Award recipients about their work and how independent practices can contribute to their research project to support wellbeing in practice.

If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in the episode, please contact:

Vetlife - https://helpline.vetlife.org.uk/

Samaritans - https://www.samaritans.org/

HOW TO HELP WITH RESEARCH:

The University of Manchester and Birkbeck, University of London are undertaking a research project funded by the RCVS Mind Matters Initiative on organisational stress management and wellbeing initiatives in the UK veterinary sector. Many stress-management initiatives aim to develop workers’ ability to cope with stress, for example mindfulness. In contrast, organisational wellbeing initiatives are those that target sources of stress at work by changing how work is arranged or managed; examples might include changes to rota systems, workload management strategies, or efforts to improve communication or support within teams.

If you are currently working or have worked in the UK veterinary sector and have been involved in implementing or participating in an organisational wellbeing initiative in the past three years, the research team would like to hear about your experiences People working in any role in the veterinary sector can participate in the study (e.g. clinical staff, animal care assistants, receptionists etc). Please contact Professor Elinor O’Connor for more details: elinor.oconnor@manchester.ac.uk

As ever, we would love to hear from your practice. You can send us a voice note, via WhatsApp to 07709 83 68 65

In this episode of the FIVP Practice Matters podcast,we explore two recent developments shaping the veterinary and animal welfare landscape. The first topic comes from the BVNA Congress, where certified animal behaviourist Dr Andrew Hale discusses how modern understanding of pet behaviour has evolved. Andrew explains how shifting perspectives on animal emotions, stress, andcommunication are influencing the way veterinary teams, particularly vet nurses, interpret and manage behaviour in clinical settings.

The episode also features another change-maker – Dr. TomWard, lead scientist at Warrington-based research company XCellR8. Dr Ward describes the company’s pioneering work in the cosmetics and personal care industries to replace controversial animal testing. He outlines new innovativelaboratory methods and technologies that allow products to be tested safely and ethically without animals, highlighting how scientific progress is accelerating the global move toward more humane research and product development practices.

As ever, we would love to hear from your practice. Send us a voice note, via WhatsApp to 07709 83 68 65

In this episode of Practice Matters, we explore how transparency within veterinary teams can transform client relationships and strengthen practice culture.   Drawing on expert insights from Dr Rebecca Maher from Inside Minds, we unpack why transparency isn’t just about pricing—it’s about communicating value, fostering clarity, and helping clientsfeel confident in their decisions.   Vet teams often shy away from open conversations about cost and care, but when approached with empathy and behavioural insight, transparency builds trust, reduces surprises, and enhances client satisfaction. Learn how teams can embrace openness, improve communication skills, and make every interaction more meaningful for clients and their pets.

As ever, we would love to hear from your practice – send us a voice note or message to 07709 83 68 65

In this episode of FIVP Practice Matters, we’rejoined by Sinead Bennett, veterinary surgeon and owner of MCR Vets in Salford, one of our new member practices.

Sinead shares her journey of building a modern, community-focused practice and the realities of being a vet owner in today’s rapidly changing profession. We explore leadership, culture, and what it really takes to create a practice thatsupports both clients and teams. From navigating growth to staying true to your values, Sinead offers honest insights and practical reflections that will resonate with anyone involved in independent practice. A thoughtful, inspiring conversation not to be missed.

https://www.mcrvets.com/

As ever, we would love to hear from YOUR practice! Send us a voice note, via WhatsApp to 07709 83 68 65

In this bonus episode of Practice Matters, we bring together four independent veterinary practices to explore the real-world implications of the Competition and Markets Authority’s proposed actions following its ongoing investigation into the veterinary sector. From pricing transparency and client trust to operational pressures and professional autonomy, our guests share candid perspectives on what these changes could mean for independent practices on the ground. Drawing on day-to-day experience, they discuss both the challenges and opportunities ahead, and how practices can prepare for potential reform. It’s an honest, practical conversation about safeguarding independence while navigating a rapidly evolving regulatory landscape.

How do you see the CMA investigation affecting YOUR practice? As ever, we'd love to hear from you - why not send us a Voice Note or message via WhatsApp to 07709 83 68 65

Our guest on this edition is Mark Ware, the voice behind the Not A Vet Podcast – a refreshingly honest, no-nonsense show exploring life in and around the veterinary world. Mark isn’t a vet, but he brings a unique outsider’s perspective, asking the questions others don’t and highlighting the real stories behind the profession. From mental health and career pressures to the lighter side of animal care, his podcast mixes insight, humour, and authenticity. With engaging conversations and relatable experiences, Not A Vet Podcast has built a strong community around openness, support, and understanding what it really means to work with animals from someone who has been a well-known industry figure for more than a quarter of a century.

A ever, we'd love to hear from your practice. Send us a voice note or message via WhatsApp to 07709 836865

FIVP Practice Matters dives into the issues shaping the future of veterinary practice, and in this first episode of the new series, we explore one of the most significant developments facing the profession today. We are joined by Dr David Reader and Dr Scott Summers, who have used the CMA investigation into veterinary household pets as a central focus of their research.

Together, they unpack what prompted their investigation (which actually started before the CMA launched its own), what the CMA is seeking to understand, and why this scrutiny matters for practices, clients, and the wider veterinary sector. Drawing on their research, David and Scott offer clear insight into themes such as transparency, pricing, consumer trust, and how regulatory attention may influence day-to-day clinical and business decisions.

This conversation goes beyond headlines to examine evidence, context, and potential implications, helping listeners make sense of a complex and evolving landscape.

You can read Dr Reader and Dr Summers’ full findings here. Don’t forget you can read FIVP’s full response to the CMA and our Impact Assessment on the FIVP website.

As ever, we would love to hear from your practice! Send us a voice note via WhatsApp to 07709 836865

Our guest on this episode of Practice Matters is JustinPhillips, the founder and director of Practice Made Purrfect, aveterinary marketing and business consultancy dedicated to helping practices across the UK and Ireland thrive through smarter strategy, clearer communication, and better client engagement. With over 20 years’ experience in veterinary marketing including roles growing independent practices and leading marketing for more than 350 clinics, Justin brings a practical, evidence-based approach to every challenge.

A true advocate for pet health plans, Justin is “evangelistic” about their value for practices, clients and patients alike. Heargues that thoughtfully designed plans are essential for modern practice growth, improving efficiency, profitability, and clinical impact. He emphasises that good plans should be simple, aligned with what pets and owners actually need, and structured to remove barriers to care — all while fostering regular engagement and strengthening the bond between practices and pet owners.

You can find more information at: https://www.practicemadepurrfect.com/services/supercharge-your-pet-health-plan

To hear our episode musical outro from VetChoir UK, visit: www.facebook.com/vetchoiruk or https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=79Z6IrzKP4A

As ever, we would love to hear from your practice. Send a Voice Note or message to 07709 836865

At FIVP, we’re lucky to meet countless vet students through careers fairs across the UK, giving us real insight into their EMS experiences and what they truly need as they prepare for life in practice. We’re currently working with the Edinburgh Dick Vet and the RVC on an upcoming forum exploring how independent practices can better support new graduates.

Our guest on this edition is someone who understands this landscape inside out. Anna Pill, author of the brilliantly witty blog Getting New Grads to Swipe Right, joins us to unpack what vet students are really looking for.

It's all about the vibe....

In this episode, we welcome HELEN BALLANTYNE RVN, VN —keynote speaker at the 2025 BVNA Congress. Helen’s powerful address explored the concept of One Health, emphasising the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental wellbeing. With her dual qualification in medical and veterinary nursing, she challenged delegates to embrace leadership and progression without relying on buzzwords, instead focusing on meaningful collaboration and advocacy. Her insights resonated deeply with veterinary professionals, inspiring a renewed sense of purpose and unity. Helen shares her vision for a future where veterinary nurses are central to global health conversations.As ever, we would love to hear from your practice! Send us a voice note via WhatsApp to 07709 836865

Welcome to this episode of FIVP Practice Matters, where we explore how independent veterinary practices can build strong, effective partnerships with Cats Protection. As the UK’s leading feline welfare charity, Cats Protection offers vital support in rehoming, neutering, and education. By working collaboratively, practices can enhance care for stray and unwanted cats, streamline referral processes, and contribute meaningfully to community welfare. We’ll discuss practical strategies, shared goals, and how to align clinical services with charitable initiatives to improve outcomes for cats and clients alike. Whether you're new to working with Cats Protection or looking to strengthen ties, this episode is for you.

As ever, we would love to hear from your practice! Send us a voice note or message via WhatsApp to 07709 836865

In this episode of 'Practice Matters' we feature FIVP practice Catmose Vets based in Rutland, the second smallest historic ceremonial county after the City of London. Just over a year ago, vet owner VICTOR ORTIZ escaped the corporate world to set up his own practice team. Was it the right decision?

As ever, we would love to hear from your practice. Send us a Voice Note or message via WhatsApp to 07709 83 68 65

Just ahead of their milestone 60th Anniversary congress celebrations, this edition of Practice Matters provides an opportunity to meet new incoming BVNA president SARAH HOLLIDAY. 

At an important moment for the association, we learn more about just what their diamond jubilee year theme of ‘Progression for veterinary nurses’ means and hear about some of the barriers (plus successes) that our nursing colleagues face, in trying to progress their role and responsibilities.

As ever we would love to hear from your practice. Send us a voice note or message via WhatsApp to 07709 83 68 65

A vital part of the team, the responsibilities of the veterinary receptionist have changed significantly over time. In many practices, they are the glue holding the team together. They are the welcoming voice on the phone, the calm mind behind a hectic schedule, the reliable support with everyday admin – and so much more...

Indispensable? Well, from experience, you certainly know when they are on holiday or absent!

With Veterinary Receptionist Appreciation Day (1 October) on the horizon, we chat with BVRA Business Executive DANNI POOLE and BVRA Council member RACHAEL PARKIN about the changing role of the veterinary receptionist.

How do you celebrate the veterinary receptionists in your team?

As ever, we would love to hear from your practice. Send a voice note or message via WhatsApp to 07709 83 68 65

What’s the connection between the man who invented the smartphone-controlled pedestrian crossing, guide dogs and making vet (and other venues) visits more accessible for disabled people?  The answer is Gavin Neate who joins us on this episode of Practice Matters and chats about his passion for seeing everyone as equal through an equitable lensand putting in place the methods that make this possible.

As always, we would love to hear from your practice. Send us a voice note or message, via WhatsApp to 07709 83 68 65

Our guest on this episode of Practice Matters is Dr Sanjay Mangabhai, a vet for 35 years and owner of Warm Embrace – one of our valued FIVP member practices which specialises in end-of-life pet care and euthanasia in the home.

Sanjay explains why he chose to focus on end-of-life care, the support and training his team requires, and the considerations he makes for a pet owner preparing to say a final goodbye to their beloved pet. He explores the decisions that clients may face during this difficult time and discusses how practices can make pet euthanasia a more respectful experience for pets and their owners.

For more information about CAETA visit https://caetainternational.com

As ever, we would love to hear about what's going on in your practice. Send a voice note or message via WhatsApp to 07709 83 68 65

One of the many reasons for these FIVP Practice Matters podcasts is to shine a light on member practices. On this edition we catch up again with GARY KELLY from Warren House in the Midlands and hear about their new referral service - Vetemis - which offers a range of laparoscopic services which independent first-opinion clinics can access.

As ever, we would love to hear about what's going on in your practice. Send a voice note or message via WhatsApp to 07709 83 68 65

Inevitably, no matter how things may run in general practice, from time-to-time there will be issues around price, service or treatment etc., and can, with a little in-house mediation, be resolved most of the time. But...if there's an impasse, what happens next?

JENNIE JONES, Head of the VCMS, joins Ian Wolstenholme for an overview of their services and how their independent impartial advice can help smooth troubled waters.

As ever, we would love to hear from your practice. Do send us a Voice Message via WhatsApp to 07709 83 68 65

In this edition we mark that which, by her own admission, is the pinnacle of FIVP Chair RITA DINGWALL'S long and distinguished career in veterinary practice management.

Rita was presented with Honorary Associateship of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons at the RCVS College Day in Westminster on 4th July 2025 and Practice Matters was there to talk with Rita about how the role of a practice manager has developed since she started as a practice secretary more than three decades ago!

We hear from some of Rita's friends and colleagues, all of whom send heartfelt and sincere congratulations on this very special recognition by the College.

A ever, we would love to hear your stories from practice life. Why not send us a Voice Note, via WhatsApp to 07709 83 68 65.

Please note this episode contains discussions of abuse and animal abuse.

Abuse in any form is something we don’t often like to think of, let alone talk about, especially in a professional capacity and for members of a caring profession like veterinary, even just acknowledging that an animal’s injury may be deliberate can be incredibly challenging.  Sadly, there is robust evidence that animals can also be abused in households where people are being abused.

On this episode of ‘Practice Matters’ we are joined by VICKI BETTON, Vice Chair and Trustee and also Director of Global Impact at iCatCare, who explains more about the work of the charity.

For more information please visit:

Links_Group_Brochure_7_2024.pdf

As always, we would love to hear from your practice. Why not let us know about your latest projects or experiences by sending a voice note via WhatsApp to 07709 83 68 65

In this episode we meet HELEN SPIEGL from Helen Spiegl Photography who talks about the important considerations when it comes to practice imagery.

As a former veterinary nurse and having worked in veterinary sales, Helen is well placed to know what makes pets and owners tick and has won several prestigious awards for her photographs of 'all creatures great and small'.

Is your practice website sending the right impressions to clients and visitors? When is a selfie simply unacceptable?

Some fascinating insights into a works behind the lens.

As ever, we would love to hear from your practice about this, or any other topic where 'practice matters'. Send us a Voice Note on WhatsApp to 07709 83 68 65

In this episode of the podcast in which Ian Wolstenholme talks with FIGEN MURRAY OBE. Figen lost her son Martyn Hett in the 2017 bombing atrocity at the Ariana Grande concert at Manchester. Since the tragedy Figen has been a prolific campaigner for events venues and businesses of all sizes to be aware of potential threats to life and how to act in those unexpected situations. She has contributed to hundreds of TV, radio and podcasts over the past 7 years and her personal journey (and that of Martyn's) recounted in many articles.

Why is this one different?

Put simply, when an invitation arrives to attend a free counter-terrorism training event in Manchester, it seems quite sensible to share the information with our veterinary colleagues. But - couple that with the (unexpected) story of a British Blue shorthair cat and the human-animal bond and we hope, that which potentially could be a very 'dry' practice and team security message, will make listeners really sit up and take notice.

The FREE online training which is referred to in this edition can be found here:

https://www.protectuk.police.uk/

https://www.protectuk.police.uk/martyns-law/good-security-practice

As ever, we would love to hear from your practice on this, or any other subject.  Send a voice note or message to 07709 83 68 65.

Our guest on Practice Matters is ASHA CLEARWATER - a content coach, publisher and journalist - but perhaps known within the realms of the annual National Pet Month (NPM) as the friendly host behind the many 'NPM Live' online events.

As the 2025 ends (although as you'll hear, the initiative, in truth, runs year-round) we catch up with Asha to learn about what makes the veterinary sector's longest-running campaign of its type, successful.

As ever, we'd love to hear from your practice! Send us a Voice Note via WhatsApp to 07709 83 68 65

The Animal Cancer Trust, founded in 2002, provides vital support to both pet owners and the veterinary team. In this episode we meet the CEO, DR VICKI ADAMS and one of the many volunteers at the charity, JOE FLANAGAN, and learn about their valuable work.

For more information visit:

https://www.animalcancertrustcharity.co.uk/

An opportunity at BSAVA Congress and Expo 2025 to catch up with JACK PEPLOE from Veterinary IT Services, following the launch of a brand new CPD stream this year, looking at how practices can improve their day-to-day efficiencies in many different ways.

Plus - how secure are your practice data systems? Jack (who is also a certified ethical hacker) offers up some advice.

Thoughts and comments? As ever, we would love to hear from your practice - send us a voice note to 07709 83 68 65

A sort of tale of two 'VUK's' in this episode of Practice Matters as we firstly get a snapshot of VUK (Verbund UnabhängigerKleintierkliniken) in Germany - a similar organisation to FIVP which supports independent vet practices there. We chat with EBERHARD HOCK and OLIVER VOLIN about the impact that corporate attention is making to the many small clinics there.

We also meet Vetlife UK ambassador OSCAR SINFIELD who tells us about his next mammoth cycling fundraiser for the charity and how your practice can become involved

https://www.vetlife.org.uk/tour-de-vet-school-2025/

https://www.justgiving.com/page/tour-de-vet-school?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=CL

As always, if you have a story to share about what's happening in YOUR practice, why not send us a voice note via WhatsApp to 07709 83 68 65.

With client communication figuring large on the list of likely 'remedies' by the CMA, this edition of Practice Matters looks at some of the digital tools which many independent practices are utilising. We catch up with VETS DIGITAL, VIDIVET and PETS APP for their top-tips around social and website media, telehealth and online booking services.

We'd love to hear about how inventive your business is being to make things as effective on the comms front for clients. Send us a Voice Note or message via WhatsApp to 07709 83 68 65

In this episode vet and entrepreneur DR KATIE FORD explains coaching and mentoring and how it can be a major asset to the whole practice team.

We also meet executive coach MYLES DOWNEY. Will he be able to convince you that YOU are a genius?

For more information visit https://www.vetempowered.com

We return to SPVS Congress 2025 for this latest edition of the podcast and find out about Employee Owned Trusts with two practices who have approached things from different angles. Heart Vets Cardiology Referrals' DAVE DICKSON and JOANNE HARRIS, together with Pennard Vets' CEO MATT FLANN help to de-mystify this growth area.

Guide to Employee Owned Trusts

With the increase in new independent startup businesses, TRACEY MORBEY and STUART JEEVES from PetPlan explain how the provision of pet insurance arrangement for a new practice can sometimes be a last minute scramble and some of the things to consider in its implementation in the new business.

As ever, we would love to hear your comments, so please send us a Voice Note or message to 07709 83 68 65 about what you are doing in your practice.

The theme of the recent SPVS (Society of Practicing Veterinary Surgeons) 2025 Congress was 'Connect, Collaborate and Progress' and this edition of FIVP Practice Matters turns the spotlight on our large animal practice colleagues. We catch up with DR OWEN ATKINSON, owner of Dairy Veterinary Consultancy and RCVS Recognised Specialist in Cattle Health and Production who takes us on a journey of change from Vet 1.0 to 3.0.

The difficult issue of debt in the veterinary sector is discussed with director of DSL (Debtsolve) MIKE BROOKS who has a wake-up call as to how even the smallest of unpaid accounts can seriously damage your business.

Check out this useful calculator to see what he means!

In this episode vet and entrepreneur DR KATIE FORD turns our attention to personal finances amongst vet teams. Why is it taboo? How can finances affect your career journey? Lots of practical advice can be found at https://vetyou.co.uk

Don't forget you can sent us a voice message to 07709 836 865 - we would love to hear from your practice about this or any other subject.

What does the word 'sustainability' mean to your practice? In this edition, we welcome back Onswitch founder ALISON LAMBERT to discuss what a sustainable practice should be considering, as we progress through a forthcoming year of changes in the veterinary space.

In this episode we catch up with a member practice - Westport Veterinary Clinic in Edinburgh and their Clinic Manager FIONA LEATHERS RVN. As one of the participants in the pilot scheme of the BVA Great Workplaces Scheme, Fiona runs through the accreditation process to hopefully tempt more practices to join. We also touch on the area of 'Fear-Free' veterinary practice. Ten years after it was launched at an overseas conference, what has been the impact here in the UK? Again, Fiona tells Practice Matters listeners about her experiences.

At the recent London Vet Show STEVE CARTER from Priory Veterinary Surgeons in Reigate conducted an experiment on the FIVP stand - 'Two Chairs and a Sign' , the objective of which was to discuss practice ownership in an open and frank way. Steve joins us on the line to reveal all!

As this is the final edition of the podcast for 2024, may we wish all our members and colleagues a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year. 2025 may well be a year of challenge for the profession but rest assured, we'll be right there to support the interests of independent practice.

In this edition we celebrate the launch of a new exotics clinic right next door to a zoo and also look at diversity and inclusivity in practice.

Our guests are DR KEVIN EATWELL, the UK's only triple-boarded exotics specialist and his nurse colleague at Fife Exotic Vets, ERIKA FEILBERG RVN.

Take a listen - truly a diverse episode.

It's a slightly extended edition this time as we meet three guests who all have an interest in educating and supporting pet carers and veterinary professionals in the prevention and treatment of resistant bacteria.

Jill Moss is the founder of the charity The Bella Moss Foundation and joining her are two of the charity’s trustees – Mike Brampton - author, managing director, lecturer, entrepreneur, podcast host and qualified Arctic guide and seafarer. Mike has been in and around both the medical and veterinary healthcare industries since 1980, working in a range of roles but mainly centred around the operating theatre and anaesthesia.

Dr Neil Forbes appeared on Practice Matters a couple of months ago and must accept responsibility for the incredible but unsurprising interest in his episode which dealt with practice hygiene.  Neil’s accolades in the industry are far too numerous to list to the extent where he has received multiple UK and international awards, he has published over 86 scientific peer reviewed papers, contributed to 38 books and lectured internationally for over 30 years particularly on infection control and was instrumental in setting up the BVNA Infection Control Training course.

We welcome back Onswitch CEO ALISON LAMBERT who has spent the past two decades in the veterinary consumer marketplace.

So what, in 2024, is "the client experience"? What are the consequences if its ignored? What are the benefits of getting it "spot on"?

This episode is packed full of practical advice - enjoy!

A bonus edition of the podcast looking at the 2024 BVNA Congress theme about 'progression', in which Ian Wolstenholme talks with KIRSTY GWYNNE about exciting developments on the Veterinary Care Assistant (VCA) role in practice, JILL MACDONALD provides some insight into the VN Vision research, BEN MYRING the RCVS Policy and Public Affairs Manager explains how vet nursing statutory regulation is undergoing changes...over time! PAM MOSEDALE from RCVS Knowledge tells us about QI (no, not TV's comedy panel quiz) but Quality Improvement and how practices can learn from mistakes.

In the episode vet and entrepreneur DR KATIE FORD returns to chat about how practices can refresh that most important of client and clinic communication tools - social media. Which platforms work and what should you be featuring?

Katie provides some thought-provoking hints and tips about what works plus the protocols and policies that practices might need to maximise the effectiveness of the various SM platforms.

In this episode Ian Wolstenholme talks with guest STEVE HOWARD, Head of Clinical Services at PDSA and Secretary General of RUMA CA&E, about this year's Antibiotic Amnesty.

Now in its third year, the initiative once again takes place throughout November, and provides an opportunity for clients to return unwanted antibiotics to practices and learn more about antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and the responsible use of antibiotics. The World Health Organisation has classified AMR as one of the Top 10 threats for global health.

Steve explains how companion animal and equine practices can make the most of the opportunities to convey key messages to clients in many ways. You can find out more about the campaign and access valuable tools and resources at www.rumacae.org.uk and sign up to this year's Antibiotic Amnesty.

It's a welcome return to the podcast to DR ERNIE WARD - America's Pet Advocate, author, broadcaster, worldwide speaker and journalist.

Ernie Ward graduated from the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine and has spent his career blending healthy lifestyles and medicine. He is the founder of the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention and is internationally known for improving veterinary medical standards, creating a higher quality of life for animals, and promoting healthier habits for people and pets. Dr. Ward has been a leader in the area of pet nutrition and weight loss, establishing diagnostic test protocols and evolving pet technologies, promoting the special needs of senior dogs and cats, and advancing veterinary practice standards and veterinary staff training. Ahead of the 2024 World Pet Obesity Week (7th to 13th October), Ian Wolstenholme chats with Ernie about pet obesity as a clinical disease.

Here in the UK, you can contribute to research/data and more information (as well as useful information for the practice) by visiting - www.worldpetobesity.org

A recently published study in Vet Times by Dr Neil Forbes BVetMed, DECZM, FRCVS, demonstrates that now is the time to take the subject of veterinary practice hygiene very seriously, if we want to avoid "the silent pandemic".

In this bonus edition of Practice Matters, Ian Wolstenholme is joined by the author, who is a Trustee of the Bella Moss Foundation, to look at how practices of every size can do to really 'up their game'.

As ever, if you have any comments or observations on the topic covered, we'd love to hear from you! Send us a voice note to 07709 836865 or comment on the page.