The campaign forms part of Veterinary Nursing Awareness Month 2026
The BVNA is set to celebrate the ‘unsung heroes’ of the veterinary nursing profession as part of its 2026 Veterinary Nursing Awareness Month (VNAM) campaign.
Under the theme ‘Compassion and Empathy’, the organisation is inviting veterinary clients and colleagues to shine a light on the RVNS and SVNs who go above and beyond the call of duty — often behind the scenes and without recognition.
The organisation is particularly seeking nominations from clients whose lives have been touched by compassionate nursing care and colleagues who witness the day-to-day emotional labour, professionalism and dedication that often goes unseen.
Throughout VNAM, the BVNA will also explore how veterinary nurses demonstrate compassion and empathy every day, whether towards their patients or the people around them, and underpin the skilled care they provide.
BVNA President, Sarah Holliday, said: “I am delighted to launch this year’s VNAM, which also follows my Presidential theme of ‘Compassion and Empathy’.
“Throughout May, we will be highlighting how these qualities are integral to everything veterinary nurses do - from providing dedicated and skilled care to animals of all species, supporting animal caregivers in sometimes difficult and emotional situations, and offering a listening ear to colleagues. Often, this goes on behind the scenes; VNAM is a crucial opportunity to put a spotlight on the incredible work carried out by veterinary nurses every day.
“I encourage the whole veterinary profession to get involved, showcasing to the public just how much veterinary nurses contribute to their teams and to animal welfare. It’s an ideal opportunity to get creative with your team – and BVNA has provided lots of resources on our website to help to generate ideas.”
She continued: “I also look forward to reading the nominations of inspiring individuals and teams who deserve to be showcased for bringing compassion and empathy into their work every day. Receiving this recognition provides a real boost for the recipients and reminds them that their work does not go unnoticed – nominations only take a few minutes to submit but make a real impact.”
The nomination form for the BVNA’s Unsung Heroes campaign is available on the BVNA website.
Image (C) BVNA.
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. 
