As the days grow longer and we approach May, a particularly important time for the veterinary nurse (VN) community approaches: The Veterinary Nursing Awareness Month (VNAM). This annual campaign, proudly led by the British Veterinary Nursing Association (BVNA) since 2004, offers a dedicated opportunity to shine a spotlight on the invaluable contributions that VNs make to animal welfare every single day. As this issue of the journal will be released just before we head into May, I thought this would be the perfect time to reflect and celebrate the continuous hard work of the community.
This year's VNAM carries an extra layer of significance as the BVNA celebrates its 60th anniversary. For six decades, this association has championed the VN profession, advocated for their rights, and fostered a community of dedicated individuals. The theme for VNAM 2025, fittingly, is ‘progression’. It is a chance to reflect on the incredible journey of veterinary nursing in the UK, from its early beginnings to the highly skilled and respected profession it is today.
‘Progression’ is not just about looking back; it's also about looking forward with ambition and pride. As the role of the VN continues to evolve and expertise expands, VNAM 2025 encourages all VNs to consider where the profession can continue to grow and flourish.
The Veterinary Nurse journal remains committed to supporting VN's progression and is pleased to announce that this year we will be hosting the Veterinary Nurse Summer Seminars — a webinar series covering topics including nutrition, the impact of new technologies on diagnostics and efficiency, weight management in nutritional care, navigating difficult conversations with pet owners, and dermatology and woundcare triage in practice. This CPD-accredited webinar will be available to attend live, with opportunities to participate in interactive workshops, and will also be accessible on demand following the live stream. Further details will be shared in upcoming editions of the journal and online.
For many members of the public, the full extent of a veterinary nurse's training and responsibilities remains a mystery. VNAM plays a crucial role in bridging this gap, raising awareness of the diverse skills we possess, from administering complex treatments and monitoring anaesthesia to providing vital emotional support to worried owners. By actively engaging with the public during May, VNs can collectively paint a clearer picture of the vital role they play in the veterinary team and in safeguarding animal welfare.
As you navigate the busy clinics and demanding schedules, take a moment to reflect on your own ‘progression’ and the impact you have. Whether you are a seasoned RVN mentoring the next generation or a student nurse eagerly learning the ropes, your dedication is the bedrock of exceptional animal care. Let VNAM 2025 be a source of inspiration, a reminder of the strength and unity within the profession, and an opportunity to shine.