Wildlife vet becomes BVA Scottish Branch president
Romain Pizzi combines his life in the UK with working as a zoo and wildlife vet on conservation projects worldwide.
Wildlife vet and recognised specialist, Romain Pizzi, was elected president of the BVA Scottish Branch at the association’s annual general meeting, held virtually on Wednesday (19 May).
Pizzi grew up in South Africa where he also qualified as a vet after he became concerned with the environment and wildlife conservation from a young age. Over the last 18 years, he has lived and worked in Scotland, combining his life in the UK with working as a zoo and wildlife vet on conservation projects across the globe.
Throughout his career, Pizzi has worked to build wildlife veterinary capacity internationally. He has trained vets from Ethiopia to Indonesia, working with everything from pandas to Polynesian tree snails, as well as with wildlife like eagles and beavers closer to home.
He also pioneered operations such as the keyhole surgery removal of diseased gallbladders in moon bears rescued from illegal bile farms in Vietnam and invented a low-cost 3D imaging method for wild elephants.
Reflecting his strong interest in animal welfare, Pizzi is a member of DEFRA, the Animal Welfare Committee, a trustee for the Animal Welfare Foundation, and junior vice-president of the British Veterinary Zoological Society.
Commenting on his new role, Romain Pizzi said: “I am delighted to take on the role of BVA Scottish Branch President. Although my work as a vet takes me around the world, I have made Scotland my home for the last 18 years with my wife and two children. I have worked in a wide variety of roles over the course of my career, and many Scotland-based projects.
“The landscape for veterinary surgeons is changing fast, and as we navigate our way around the global pandemic, the effects of Brexit, and the recent Scottish election, the profession continues to face challenges. From the well-being of members to legislative changes affecting animal health and welfare, there are lots of things that need a strong veterinary voice."
He continued: “I’m really looking forward to working with our members and stakeholders to champion our Scottish members’ voice at the most influential levels, on priority animal health and welfare issues, and our life and work within the veterinary profession.”
Offering his congratulations, BVA president, James Russell said: “I am really pleased to welcome Romain Pizzi to the team as President and want to extend a warm welcome from us all here at BVA. With his varied and rich career background, I have no doubt that he will bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the role.
“BVA’s focus has always been on understanding and informing our members and stakeholders about the potential challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, coupled with ensuring that vets have a strong voice in an ever-changing world.”
Pizzi succeeds Kathleen Robertson as BVA Scottish Branch president.
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.
