Vicky’s Story

My unexpected journey to becoming a Veterinary Surgeon

My unexpected journey to completing an ECVS residency in small animal surgery started at a free CPD evening at my new, local referral centre - frank. Pet Surgeons. Little did I know then that in a few years I’d be working alongside renowned specialists, performing my own complex surgeries and presenting my research across the world.

Although I had known I wanted to be a vet from the age of eight, I always assumed I wanted to be in mixed practice. Training to become a specialist was not something I ever envisioned.

During my time in general practice, I found that I was exposed to a high surgical case load. To improve my surgical knowledge and skills, I completed a surgical certificate.

Through the certificate, I was amazed by the level of expertise of the specialist lecturers, and I thought to myself I would have loved to reach that level, but it didn’t seem a realistic option at that stage of my career.

Whilst undertaking my certificate, I would refer more complex cases to frank. Pet Surgeons and was impressed with the friendly and supportive service, and the fixed fees and surgical warrantee which totally unique at the time.

I wanted to be able to offer and perform the best surgery for my patients, so I started attending free CPD evenings.

It was at one of these evenings that I got talking to Louise, who encouraged me to visit frank. Pet Surgeons on my afternoons off.

After eight years in general practice, I took the leap and applied for a position as a surgical intern at frank. Pet Surgeons, which I started in July 2021.

I was strongly encouraged and supported by the founder and clinical director of frank. Pet Surgeons, Scott Rutherford, to pursue a surgical residency which I stared in August 2022. During which I have also been supported by Jonathan Bell.

Vicky looking after patients in practice

A residency is much more than just improving your surgical skills and knowledge. It equips you with the tools to problem solve, critically analyse research and performing cutting edge surgeries.

I’ve had many unique and incredible opportunities over the past three years. I lead my own research project, which I presented to other vets, including specialists, at the European College of Veterinary Surgeons (ECVS) Annual Scientific meeting in Krakow and was subsequently awarded the winner of the ECVS Small Animal Orthopaedic Resident Forum. As a result, I was given the opportunity to present the research at the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS) Surgery Summit in Kentucky. I am a member of the IVC Evidensi Referrals Boards, which was established to continue improving the referral division of the business. This has allowed me to meet and network with other colleagues within IVC Evidensia, contribute to marketing the business and given me an insight into the business aspect of veterinary work.

During my training I have visited other hospitals and assisted with teaching on certificate courses, including abroad, and I’ve met vets from all over the world.

A residency is extremely challenging, it involves long hours, great dedication and continued study.

I experienced self-doubt about applying and while completing my residency, some of this was because most people in the specialist world I knew, had known that they had they wanted to be a specialist since university.

However, my time spent in general practice has given me a very solid foundation for understanding the needs of the referring vets.

Following my residency, I’m looking forward to being able to teach and support future residents and interns through the same journey. I am proud that I can offer my patients the best and latest treatments available, and I will endeavour to continue to lead research and present at conferences.

My advice to aspiring vets would be to welcome new and unexpected opportunities. Don’t tell yourself that the choices you make early on in your career will dictate your whole future. Visit new places and look for roles with a supportive and encouraging team. Make sure you allocate time to rest and enjoy activities not related to work.

Find out more about frank. Pet Surgeons

Refer a case to frank.