A call to action

In what is certainly a defining move for the veterinary nursing profession, the Veterinary Nurses Bill for protection of title in the UK was presented to the House of Lords with the first reading taking place on 10 June. If the Bill succeeds, only those who have rightfully earned the title will be able to declare that they are a veterinary nurse. Protection of title is important not just for animal safety but it also protects the public which is just as vulnerable to the negligence or misconduct of unqualified personnel. It is also an achievement that solidifies our professionalism as a whole and validates the important role that we have in society.

The first reading took place on 10 June. This stage is a formality that signals the start of the Bill's journey through the Lords. The second reading — the general debate on all aspects of the Bill — is yet to be scheduled.