Celebrating International Women’s Day

Dr Ben Hanning

Person

Behind every veterinary role is a story that often starts the same way. A love of animals. A desire to help. A sense that this is where you’re meant to be. 

This International Women’s Day, we’re celebrating the women who turned that love into a calling, and the girls who dream of following in their footsteps. 

Across the VetThing community, those early instincts have grown into careers built on care, resilience, and shared purpose. 

This year’s theme, Give to Gain, feels particularly relevant. It reminds us how powerful it can be to share our time, encouragement, and experience. And how that exchange helps shape the next generation entering the profession. 

For many, that journey starts young. 

At Park House Vets, Ingrid recalls wanting a role that made a difference – she dreamed of becoming a vet or a nurse. Today, after qualifying as a Registered Veterinary Nurse through the apprenticeship route and completing a postgraduate certificate in Performing Arts Medicine, she is preparing for her OSCES. 

Ingrid-International-Womens-Day


At Arvonia, Olivia is now in her final year of training to qualify as an RVN, having held that ambition since she was young. 

Olivia-International-Womens-Day


Kirsty also found her path early, visiting neighbours’ cats simply to spend time with them. She went on to qualify as a Veterinary Nurse and now as Arvonia’s Practice Manager, she supports students and placements, helping others find their own way into the profession. 

Kirsty IWD2


That idea of giving back runs throughout. 

At Stellar Vets, Chloe, a Veterinary Nurse with nine years’ experience, continues to grow her own knowledge while supporting newer team members as they build confidence. 

Chloe - IWD


Farnad, now working as an Intern within VetThing, was drawn not only to animals but also to understanding how organisations work behind the scenes. For her, sharing ideas and supporting others has become central to building stronger teams. 

Farnad IWD


And for those just starting out, the future is already taking shape. 

Melody, a Veterinary Care Assistant at Park House Vets, combined her early passion for animals with college studies in Animal Management and Veterinary Care. Alongside her role, she runs the practice’s social media and is working towards becoming a Registered Veterinary Nurse. 

Melody IWD


Across each of these stories, there’s a common thread. 

Care that extends beyond patients. A willingness to support others. And a recognition that when time, knowledge, and encouragement are shared, the whole profession grows stronger. Because when we give, the next generation gains. And so does the future of the profession. 

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