The winners of the 2020 Petplan Veterinary Awards were announced on 28 May during a virtual ceremony held on Petplan’s Facebook page. The exciting, and unique, event was hosted by much loved author and presenter Gyles Brandreth.
Now in their 21st year, the awards celebrated the nation’s most outstanding vets, vet nurses, practices, practice managers and support staff who had been nominated by their colleagues and clients for continually going that extra mile to keep the nation’s pets healthy.
James Barnes, head of sales and partnerships at Petplan, commented: “This year we received over 37,000 nominations and it was great to see so many veterinary colleagues and pet owners coming together online to honour the exceptional work carried out by some of the best veterinary professionals in the country.
“We hope everyone enjoyed the event and celebrated in style at home. Now more than ever it’s important to recognise the lengths the veterinary community goes to in looking after our pets and it felt particularly special this year to be able to say thank you to the veterinary profession at this difficult time. I would like to congratulate all of our deserving winners on their brilliant achievement.”
The following prizes were awarded:
Practice Manager of the Year – Martin McGovern, Fenaghy Veterinary Clinic
The judges were particularly impressed with Martin’s strategic skills and tactical business planning. He is always looking at the bigger picture, open to improvement suggestions and seeking growth opportunities for the practice.
Commenting on his win, Martin said: “I was really surprised but absolutely thrilled and honoured to have received the nomination and so grateful to all our clients who make doing my job so enjoyable and rewarding. It’s great recognition of the phenomenal work of the team here at Fenaghy do in going above and beyond to deliver exceptional care to both our patients and our clients.
“I can’t believe that I’ve won. I am truly shocked and humbled.”
Practice Support Staff of the Year – Dawn Prime, Wherry Veterinary Clinic
The panel of judges commended Dawn for the compassionate support she offers to clients and patients from all walks of life. Her excellent communications skills and personal strength have often been drawn upon.
Vet Nurse of the Year – Claire Shepherd, Parker and Crowther Ltd.
Claire stood out to the judges impressing with her volunteering efforts and exceptional contribution to animal welfare. She puts in copious amounts of time and energy alongside her job, all for the benefit of animals in the community.
Reflecting on her win Claire commented: “I’m absolutely thrilled but also shocked. I would really like to thank all the lovely people who have taken the time to nominate me it really means a lot.”
Practice of the Year – Wangford Veterinary Clinic
The judges were particularly impressed by the number of heartfelt nominations for Wangford Veterinary Clinic, the range of nominations truly demonstrating the capabilities of the team. Extremely trustworthy individuals, with a strong community involvement, they approach every task in collaboration.
As director of the wining practice Dr Walter Stöhr commented: “As a small rural business we were so proud to have once again achieved a finalist status with this prestigious award. To then be announced as the Winners of Practice of the Year 2020 was a dream come true for us. We have all been overwhelmed with the response from our clients and colleagues from within the industry, especially at this difficult time.
“We would like to thank each and every person who nominated us, the PetPlan team and judges, and a personal extension of gratitude goes out to our wonderful team, who consistently deliver an outstanding service, with the best care for all the animals we see, as well as their owners. Without such a wonderful team at Wangford Veterinary Clinic, we would never have been able to achieve this amazing feat.”
Vet of the Year – Lindsay Henry, 1039 Kessock Equine Vets
Through a variety of nominations the judges were struck by Lindsay’s dedication towards clients and her thorough and patient approach to equine health. Despite often facing challenging circumstances, her admirable determination and spirit help her deliver the best care possible.
Commenting on her win Lindsay said: “I was taken aback when my name was announced as the winner of Petplan’s Vet of the year! Despite it being a virtual award ceremony it was done brilliantly. My family, friends and clients were able to virtually support me and celebrate with me, albeit on a computer screen. After all, my success is their success.
“Thank you to my clients who kindly took the time to nominate me for this award. I was thrilled to be nominated, overwhelmed to be a finalist and it is absolutely incredible to be named the winner! I must also thank my husband Alastair, mum Isobel, and brother Kenneth for their unfaltering support, I couldn’t have achieved this without them. It is wonderful to be able to be a part of something so positive in these uncertain and challenging global times. I am absolutely thrilled.”
The ceremony can still be viewed on YouTube.
