A vet from Co. Down in Northern Ireland has been nominated for a new veterinary award, which will be announced at the British Veterinary Association (BVA) awards dinner next month.
Dr. Esther Skelly-Smith is a equine veterinary surgeon and practice principal at Shanaghan Veterinary Services in Katesbridge, Co. Down.
She has been selected as one of the finalists for BVA’s new Veterinary Leader award, alongside nominees Paul Harwood of IVC Evidensia and Dr. Ceri Owen of CVS Vets.
BVA stated that Dr Skelly-Smith was nominated “for consistently demonstrating inspirational leadership by creating opportunities for collaboration, professional development and collective action across the veterinary and equine sectors”.
The Northern Irish vet commented: “I’m incredibly honoured to be shortlisted for the BVA Veterinary Leader Award.
“Throughout my career, I’ve been passionate about using veterinary science to improve animal welfare, inform public policy and support responsible approaches to both equine welfare and sustainable agriculture.”
She noted that her nomination “reflects the value of collaboration across the profession” as she expressed her gratitude for the colleagues and organisations she has worked alongside.
Shanaghan Veterinary Services
Skelly-Smith launched Shanagahan Veterinary Services in 2017, marking “Ireland’s first integrated veterinary referral service”.
She graduated from the University of Nottingham School of Veterinary Medicine and Science in 2012 before going on to work at Animal Health Trust in Newmarket, England.
Since her return to Northern Ireland, Skelly-Smith has also previously served as president of BVA’s Northern Ireland branch and the North of Ireland Veterinary Association (NIVA).
Outside of her veterinary career, she farms on a part-time basis, producing both commercial and pedigree sheep.
BVA awards
The Veterinary Leading Award is amongst 10 awards up for grabs at this year’s BVA awards dinner, which is set to take place at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole on Thursday, June 11.
BVA president Dr. Rob Williams outlined that the award ceremony plays an important role in recognising the achievements across the veterinary sector.
Dr. Williams said: “Vet teams have a profound impact both on the lives of individual animals and people, but also on society at large.
“The BVA Awards enable us to take a moment out of our busy schedules to recognise these achievements and celebrate the fantastic work of our community.
“This year’s award finalists stand out as shining examples of the very best of the veterinary profession and it’s going to be very difficult to choose winners for each award,” he added.
The full list of awards and their nominees can be seen on the BVA’s website.