Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.

Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

VPMA celebrates 21st birthday
vpma dinner
Helen Sanderson said she was keen to acknowledge the contribution made to the association by the former presidents.

Presidents past and present gather for anniversary dinner

Past presidents of the Veterinary Practice Management Association (VPMA) joined the current president recently for a dinner to mark the 21st anniversary of the organisation.

The evening, held at the Il Convivio restaurant in London, saw members of the VPMA council join a group of past presidents, some founding members of the association, for the birthday celebrations.

Current VPMA president Helen Sanderson said she was keen to acknowledge the contribution made to the association by the former presidents, many of whom are still prominent in the management world today.

“I’d like to say a heartfelt thank-you to our past presidents in guiding the VPMA towards this important anniversary.
As well as leading our association, they have actively driven the evolution of practice management as a profession.

"Much of the knowledge that we draw on day-to-day in our role as practice managers has come directly from them and we are grateful for their generosity in sharing their wisdom over the years.”

The association has grown from tiny beginnings to over 800 members, with membership available to anyone with an interest in veterinary practice management and knowledge disseminated through regional meetings and forums.

The VPMA, together with the Society for Practising Veterinary Surgeons, will hold its annual business and management congress in January 2015, where non-members are also welcome. 

Image courtesy of the VPMA

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Vets launch new podcast for pet owners

News Story 1
 Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.

The venture, called Vets Talking Pets, provides advice and information on a range of topics, including how to select a suitable pet, where to obtain them and how to get the best out of your vet. Maggie and Vanessa will also discuss sensitive subjects, including end-of-life care, raw food diets and the cost of veterinary care.

The podcast can be found on all the usual podcast sites, including Podbean, Apple, Amazon Music and YouTube. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
RCVS Regional Question Time heads to Edinburgh

The RCVS is to bring its Regional Question Time (RQT) to Edinburgh for 2026.

The event will take place at Novotel Edinburgh Park in Edinburgh on Wednesday, 20 May 2026.

It will begin with supper and drinks at 6.30pm, with an evening programme from 7.30pm. This will start with an update on RCVS' activities, followed by questions and answers with representatives.

RCVS is encouraging an 'open dialogue', in which queries can be raised in a friendly, informal environment.

While discussions are expected to be audience-led, the RQT is expected address major issues including the VSA, the CMA's remedy package and the VN Vision project.

Tim Parkin, RCVS president, said: "It's an important time for the professions, and I'm looking forward to meeting colleagues in Scotland as we navigate this period of change together so we can come out stronger."

Tickets can be booked here.