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BSAVA awards 2026 open for entries
Entries are open until 9 January 2026.

The awards celebrate unsung heroes within the veterinary profession.

Nominations for the 2026 BSAVA awards are now open.



Eight award categories are available this year, recognising individuals who have made significant contributions to veterinary science, research, clinical practice, education and small animal welfare.



Entries are open until 9 January 2026, and nominations are welcome from both BSAVA members and non-members. 



BSAVA honorary secretary Adam Gow said: “Each year, we’re proud to shine a spotlight on individuals who have truly made a difference in our profession. Nominating a colleague is a meaningful way to show appreciation and celebrate the impact they’ve had, so we encourage everyone to get involved and put forward those who inspire them.”



The 2026 BSAVA Award categories are:
    •    The Bourgelat Award - For outstanding international contribution to small animal practice or science in their widest context.
    •    The Simon Award - Recognising contributions to the advancement of all aspects of small animal surgery.
    •    The Woodrow Award - For significant contributions to the advancement of small animal medicine.
    •    The Des Thompson Award - New for 2026, this award recognises individuals who have had a significant impact upon general practice and/or their community.
    •    The Blaine Award - For contributions to the advancement of all aspects of non‑client facing small animal veterinary medicine.
    •    The BSAVA Veterinary Nurse Award - Recognising outstanding contributions to the advancement of small animal veterinary nursing.
    •    The Ray Butcher Award - For a non-veterinary individual who has been an ‘unsung hero’ by making a significant contribution to animal welfare in the community.
    •    The J.A. Wight Memorial Award - For a qualified veterinarian who has made an outstanding contribution to the welfare of companion animals. Presented by the Blue Cross.

Find full details and nomination forms at bsava.com/awards

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

Animal Medicines Amnesty returns this November

News Story 1
 Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty.

Organised by the Responsible Use of Medicines Alliance Companion Animal and Equine (RUMA CA&E), the initative is supported by a range of cross-sector organisations.

Practices are encouraged to use the campaign to engage the whole practice team and raise awareness of the safe disposal of medicines with clients. Learn how your practice can get involved at rumacae.org.uk 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
APHA launches free virtual work experience programme

The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), in collaboration with Springpod, has launched a free virtual work experience programme, giving young people across the UK the chance to explore careers dedicated to protecting animal and plant health.

The on-demand programme offers a unique insight into career opportunities within APHA, showcasing how students can contribute to tackling some of the UK's most critical biosecurity and environmental challenges.

Designed for students aged 13 and over, the course includes more than 10 hours of engaging content featuring real-life industry insights, scenario-based challenges, and practical guidance on applying for jobs. To register for the course, visit the APHA website.