FIVP Practice Matters

Recent episodes

1. Ep061 - Life After Graduation from FIVP Practice Matters

   Jul 28, 202620 min

   Welcome back to Practice Matters, the podcast that champions independent veterinary practices and the brilliant people within them. In this episode, we're reflecting on FIVP's recent appearance at the University of Liverpool Vet School's Career Fair in May. It was a fantastic opportunity for us to get in front of the next generation of veterinary professionals and share what makes independent practice such a rewarding and fulfilling career path. From clinical autonomy to genuine community connection, we were there to fly the flag for independents and show students that there's a vibrant, values-driven alternative to the corporate route. We'll share some highlights and thoughts from the day. We've also got updates on two things worth knowing about: BERNARD FROST provides details of the upcoming BSAVA LUMOS platform, a fresh approach to CPD that's generating real buzz across the profession, and we shine a spotlight on new FIVP member Ardsley Vets, a brand new independentpractice in West Yorkshire. And if you would like YOUR practice to be featured onPractice Matters, simply send us a voice note or message to 07709 83 68 65

2. Ep060 - Practice Uniqueness with Andy Donley from FIVP Practice Matters

   Jul 14, 202615 min

   In this ‘Practice Matters’ episode, we're joined by ANDY DONLEY from Practice Made Purrfect to tackle one of the most common - and quietly costly - problems in vet marketing: sounding exactly like everyone else. If your website says "we treat your pet like family," you're in good company. But Andy explains why phrases like that have stopped doing any real work, and what practices can do instead to build messaging that is genuinely theirs. With the CMA remedies now pushing for greater consistency across the profession, the ability to articulate what makes your practice truly different has never mattered more. Andy shares practical ways to uncover your real differentiators, turn everyday details into compelling messages, and find the confidence to say something that actually stands out. How is your practice truly unique? As ever, we would love to hear from your practice. Send us a voice note or message via WhatsApp to 07709 83 68 65 For more details about the work of Practice Made Purrfect - visit https://www.practicemadepurrfect.com/

3. Ep059 - Cats Protection Summer Reception from FIVP Practice Matters

   Jun 30, 202618 min

   In this special edition of FIVP Practice Matters, recorded at a landmark parliamentary reception at Westminster hosted by Cats Protection, Ian Wolstenholme is joined by JOHANNA BAXTER MP, Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Cats, JOHN MAY, Chief Executive of Cats Protection, KIT STURGESS, Chair of Trustees at Cats Protection and IZZY HOCKING, vet and Senior Veterinary Engagement Manager. Together, they explore the growing momentum behind improving feline welfare in the UK, discussing the challenges of securing legislative reform, the need for stronger regulation of cat breeding, and why cats continue to lag behind dogs in terms of welfare protections despite being the nation's most popular pet. The conversation highlights the vital role of veterinary professionals, charities, policymakers and cat owners in driving change, while offering practical insights into understanding feline behaviour, recognising signs of pain, and advocating for better outcomes for cats. It's a thought-provoking discussion about partnership, persistence and the collective responsibility to see the world through a cat's eyes. As ever, we'd love to hear from your practice. Send us a voice note via WhatsApp to 07709 83 68 65

4. Ep058 - BEVA - Imogen Burrows from FIVP Practice Matters

   Jun 16, 202618 min

   In this episode of Practice Matters, we sit down with IMOGEN BURROWS, President of the British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA), to explore the real landscape of equine veterinary practice today. With a career rooted in first-opinion equine work, Imogen brings a refreshingly grounded perspective to the role. From her presidential theme of "Everyday Welfare" to the pressures facing independent practices around recruitment, retention, and burnout, this is a candid conversation about what it truly means to work in equine medicine — and what the profession must do to support the vets within it. As ever, we would love to hear from your practice. Send us a voice note or message via WhatsApp to 07709 836865

5. Ep057 - National SQP Week 2026 from FIVP Practice Matters

   Jun 2, 202619 min

   They've been part of veterinary medicines legislation since 2005, yet the three letters SQP are still not as widely recognised as they perhaps should be. That's about to change. For the very first time, the profession is marking a dedicatedNational SQP Week, running from 5th to 12th June 2026 — a landmark moment for a qualification that has quietly underpinned the safe distribution of veterinary medicines for decades. In this episode of Practice Matters, we're joined by CAROLINE JOHNSON, Director of Vetpol, to explore what National SQP Week means for the profession, how to get involved, and why this milestone is long overdue. As ever, we would love to hear from your practice. Send us a voice note or message via WhatsApp to 07709 836865 For more information about National SQP Week, visit https://vetpol.uk/vetpol-sqp-why-choose-us/national-sqp-week-5-12-june-2026/

6. Ep056 - Pet Blood Bank UK from FIVP Practice Matters

   May 19, 202615 min

   When a critical patient arrives and every second counts, access to blood products can mean the difference between life and death. But what does it actually take to keep thoselifesaving supplies available around the clock? In this episode of Practice Matters, we're joined by LARA HOWE, Clinical Supervisor and Veterinary Surgeon at Pet Blood Bank UK — the country's leading canine blood bank charity and the animal equivalent of the NHS blood service. From donor eligibility and blood typing to the journey of a single unit from donation session to emergency ward, we're exploring everything veterinary teams need to know about canine blood transfusion. As ever, we would love to hear from your practice. Send us a voice note or message via WhatsApp to 07709 836865 For more information about the Pet Blood Bank UK charity, visit https://www.petbloodbankuk.org/

7. Ep055 - Protect Yourself! from FIVP Practice Matters

   May 5, 202614 min

   With 61% of the veterinary profession now female, personal safety has never been more relevant — yet it remains one of the most overlooked conversations in the industry. In this episode, Ian Wolstenholme speaks with JESSICA JONES , founder of Amazonia School of Self Protection, about what it truly means to protect yourself in a caring profession. From lone working and aggressive clients to boundary-setting and post-incident recovery, Jessica shares practical strategies and powerful mindset shifts for female vets and vet nurses navigating real-world risk. Because a profession that gives so much to others must also equip its people to stay safe. As ever we would love to hear from your practice. Send us a voice message via WhatsApp to 07709 83 68 65 https://www.facebook.com/AmazoniaSOSP/

8. Ep054 - Vetamorphosis from FIVP Practice Matters

   Apr 21, 202615 min

   Our veterinary profession is (fortunately) blessed in the modern age with lots of support for colleagues struggling with their mental health wellbeing. Oftentimes, this care is drawn upon when problems have manifested. Our guest onthis edition of Practice Matters, GEORGINA HILLS from Vetamorphosis, joins Ian to talk through how practice leaders and team members can look for the subtle signs of mental distress before they reach that crisis point. George discusses this with the benefit of a ‘dual lens’ – she is a long-time experienced veterinary nurse, practice manager who in2022 made the courageous choice to transition into the third sector as a Community and Mental Health Advocate withing the NHS and is now also a Transactional Psychotherapist with Vetamorphosis. As ever, we would love to hear from your practice if you have been affected by any of the issues raised. Send us a voicenote to 07709 83 68 65 https://www.vetamorphosis.co.uk https://www.vetlife.org.uk/

9. Ep053 - FIVP 10th Birthday! from FIVP Practice Matters

   Apr 7, 202617 min

   It’s our 10-year anniversary! To celebrate a decade of FIVP representing independent practices, Ian Wolstenholme and the FIVP team reflect on the organisation’s humble origins and look to the future for the sector. Joining Ian is chairperson Rita Dingwall, co-founder Jacqui Garrett and administrator Ruth Cleaver. FIVP was founded in 2016 as a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to securing a future for independent practices. We work closely with practice owners and managers, ensuring they have they are supported and represented to grow their business. Don’t forget to share how your practice showcases its independence! Whether you are an FIVP member or not, we want to hear how your stories about engaging with your community. Send a voice note via WhatsApp to 07709 836865

10. Ep052 - RCVS MMI updates - Rapinder Newton and Elinor O'Connor from FIVP Practice Matters

    Mar 24, 202618 min

    On this edition of Practice Matters we hear about some of the latest practice support strategies around the RCVS Mind Matters Initiative. The College Lead RAPINDERNEWTON tells us about the new Academy courses for Managers, MMI online workshops and Applied Mental Health Science, as well as guidance for the forthcoming requirement as part of the Practice Standards Scheme to have a Suicide Prevention Plan in place. We also meet Professor Elinor O’Connor from the Alliance Business School at the University of Manchester - one of the 2025 Research Grant Award recipients about their work and how independent practices can contribute to their research project to support wellbeing in practice. If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in the episode, please contact: Vetlife - https://helpline.vetlife.org.uk/ Samaritans - https://www.samaritans.org/ HOW TO HELP WITH RESEARCH: The University of Manchester and Birkbeck, University of London are undertaking a research project funded by the RCVS Mind Matters Initiative on organisational stress management and wellbeing initiatives in the UK veterinary sector. Many stress-management initiatives aim to develop workers’ ability to cope with stress, for example mindfulness. In contrast, organisational wellbeing initiatives are those that target sources of stress at work by changing how work is arranged or managed; examples might include changes to rota systems, workload management strategies, or efforts to improve communication or support within teams. If you are currently working or have worked in the UK veterinary sector and have been involved in implementing or participating in an organisational wellbeing initiative in the past three years, the research team would like to hear about your experiences People working in any role in the veterinary sector can participate in the study (e.g. clinical staff, animal care assistants, receptionists etc). Please contact Professor Elinor O’Connor for more details: elinor.oconnor@manchester.ac.uk As ever, we would love to hear from your practice. You can send us a voice note, via WhatsApp to 07709 83 68 65

11. Ep051 - Changemakers from FIVP Practice Matters

    Mar 10, 202611 min

    In this episode of the FIVP Practice Matters podcast,we explore two recent developments shaping the veterinary and animal welfare landscape. The first topic comes from the BVNA Congress, where certified animal behaviourist Dr Andrew Hale discusses how modern understanding of pet behaviour has evolved. Andrew explains how shifting perspectives on animal emotions, stress, andcommunication are influencing the way veterinary teams, particularly vet nurses, interpret and manage behaviour in clinical settings. The episode also features another change-maker – Dr. TomWard, lead scientist at Warrington-based research company XCellR8 . Dr Ward describes the company’s pioneering work in the cosmetics and personal care industries to replace controversial animal testing. He outlines new innovativelaboratory methods and technologies that allow products to be tested safely and ethically without animals, highlighting how scientific progress is accelerating the global move toward more humane research and product development practices. As ever, we would love to hear from your practice. Send us a voice note, via WhatsApp to 07709 83 68 65

12. Ep050 - Transparency...do you see it? from FIVP Practice Matters

    Feb 24, 202618 min

    In this episode of Practice Matters , we explore how transparency within veterinary teams can transform client relationships and strengthen practice culture. Drawing on expert insights from Dr Rebecca Maher from Inside Minds , we unpack why transparency isn’t just about pricing—it’s about communicating value, fostering clarity, and helping clientsfeel confident in their decisions. Vet teams often shy away from open conversations about cost and care, but when approached with empathy and behavioural insight, transparency builds trust, reduces surprises, and enhances client satisfaction. Learn how teams can embrace openness, improve communication skills, and make every interaction more meaningful for clients and their pets. As ever, we would love to hear from your practice – send us a voice note or message to 07709 83 68 65

13. Ep049 - MCR Vets....but not in Manchester! from FIVP Practice Matters

    Feb 10, 202618 min

    In this episode of FIVP Practice Matters , we’rejoined by Sinead Bennett, veterinary surgeon and owner of MCR Vets in Salford, one of our new member practices. Sinead shares her journey of building a modern, community-focused practice and the realities of being a vet owner in today’s rapidly changing profession. We explore leadership, culture, and what it really takes to create a practice thatsupports both clients and teams. From navigating growth to staying true to your values, Sinead offers honest insights and practical reflections that will resonate with anyone involved in independent practice. A thoughtful, inspiring conversation not to be missed. https://www.mcrvets.com/ As ever, we would love to hear from YOUR practice! Send us a voice note, via WhatsApp to 07709 83 68 65

14. Ep048 - BONUS - Independent Voices from FIVP Practice Matters

    Jan 30, 202611 min

    In this bonus episode of Practice Matters , we bring together four independent veterinary practices to explore the real-world implications of the Competition and Markets Authority’s proposed actions following its ongoing investigation into the veterinary sector. From pricing transparency and client trust to operational pressures and professional autonomy, our guests share candid perspectives on what these changes could mean for independent practices on the ground. Drawing on day-to-day experience, they discuss both the challenges and opportunities ahead, and how practices can prepare for potential reform. It’s an honest, practical conversation about safeguarding independence while navigating a rapidly evolving regulatory landscape. How do you see the CMA investigation affecting YOUR practice? As ever, we'd love to hear from you - why not send us a Voice Note or message via WhatsApp to 07709 83 68 65

15. Ep047 - Not A Vet (but knows a few!) from FIVP Practice Matters

    Jan 27, 202613 min

    Our guest on this edition is Mark Ware , the voice behind the Not A Vet Podcast – a refreshingly honest, no-nonsense show exploring life in and around the veterinary world. Mark isn’t a vet, but he brings a unique outsider’s perspective, asking the questions others don’t and highlighting the real stories behind the profession. From mental health and career pressures to the lighter side of animal care, his podcast mixes insight, humour, and authenticity. With engaging conversations and relatable experiences, Not A Vet Podcast has built a strong community around openness, support, and understanding what it really means to work with animals from someone who has been a well-known industry figure for more than a quarter of a century. A ever, we'd love to hear from your practice. Send us a voice note or message via WhatsApp to 07709 836865

16. Ep046 - Unpacking the CMA investigation from FIVP Practice Matters

    Jan 13, 202615 min

    FIVP Practice Matters dives into the issues shaping the future of veterinary practice, and in this first episode of the new series, we explore one of the most significant developments facing the profession today. We are joined by Dr David Reader and Dr Scott Summers , who have used the CMA investigation into veterinary household pets as a central focus of their research. Together, they unpack what prompted their investigation (which actually started before the CMA launched its own), what the CMA is seeking to understand, and why this scrutiny matters for practices, clients, and the wider veterinary sector. Drawing on their research, David and Scott offer clear insight into themes such as transparency, pricing, consumer trust, and how regulatory attention may influence day-to-day clinical and business decisions. This conversation goes beyond headlines to examine evidence, context, and potential implications, helping listeners make sense of a complex and evolving landscape. You can read Dr Reader and Dr Summers’ full findings here . Don’t forget you can read FIVP’s full response to the CMA and our Impact Assessment on the FIVP website. As ever, we would love to hear from your practice! Send us a voice note via WhatsApp to 07709 836865

17. Ep045 - Pet Plans Made Purrfect - Justin Phillips from FIVP Practice Matters

    Dec 16, 202515 min

    Our guest on this episode of Practice Matters is JustinPhillips, the founder and director of Practice Made Purrfect , aveterinary marketing and business consultancy dedicated to helping practices across the UK and Ireland thrive through smarter strategy, clearer communication, and better client engagement. With over 20 years’ experience in veterinary marketing including roles growing independent practices and leading marketing for more than 350 clinics, Justin brings a practical, evidence-based approach to every challenge. A true advocate for pet health plans, Justin is “evangelistic” about their value for practices, clients and patients alike. Heargues that thoughtfully designed plans are essential for modern practice growth, improving efficiency, profitability, and clinical impact. He emphasises that good plans should be simple, aligned with what pets and owners actually need, and structured to remove barriers to care — all while fostering regular engagement and strengthening the bond between practices and pet owners. You can find more information at: https://www.practicemadepurrfect.com/services/supercharge-your-pet-health-plan To hear our episode musical outro from VetChoir UK, visit: www.facebook.com/vetchoiruk or https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=79Z6IrzKP4A As ever, we would love to hear from your practice. Send a Voice Note or message to 07709 836865

18. Ep044 - Anna Pill - What Students Want from FIVP Practice Matters

    Dec 2, 202516 min

    At FIVP, we’re lucky to meet countless vet students through careers fairs across the UK, giving us real insight into their EMS experiences and what they truly need as they prepare for life in practice. We’re currently working with the Edinburgh Dick Vet and the RVC on an upcoming forum exploring how independent practices can better support new graduates. Our guest on this edition is someone who understands this landscape inside out. Anna Pill, author of the brilliantly witty blog Getting New Grads to Swipe Right , joins us to unpack what vet students are really looking for. It's all about the vibe....

19. Ep043 - Helen Ballantyne RVN VN - One Health from FIVP Practice Matters

    Nov 18, 202512 min

    In this episode, we welcome HELEN BALLANTYNE RVN, VN —keynote speaker at the 2025 BVNA Congress. Helen’s powerful address explored the concept of One Health, emphasising the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental wellbeing. With her dual qualification in medical and veterinary nursing, she challenged delegates to embrace leadership and progression without relying on buzzwords, instead focusing on meaningful collaboration and advocacy. Her insights resonated deeply with veterinary professionals, inspiring a renewed sense of purpose and unity. Helen shares her vision for a future where veterinary nurses are central to global health conversations.As ever, we would love to hear from your practice! Send us a voice note via WhatsApp to 07709 836865

20. Ep042 - Your Vets working with Cats Protection from FIVP Practice Matters

    Nov 4, 202512 min

    Welcome to this episode of FIVP Practice Matters, where we explore how independent veterinary practices can build strong, effective partnerships with Cats Protection. As the UK’s leading feline welfare charity, Cats Protection offers vital support in rehoming, neutering, and education. By working collaboratively, practices can enhance care for stray and unwanted cats, streamline referral processes, and contribute meaningfully to community welfare. We’ll discuss practical strategies, shared goals, and how to align clinical services with charitable initiatives to improve outcomes for cats and clients alike. Whether you're new to working with Cats Protection or looking to strengthen ties, this episode is for you. As ever, we would love to hear from your practice! Send us a voice note or message via WhatsApp to 07709 836865