Suffolk Vet Scoops National Awards

​​​​​​​A Wangford vet has been named UK champion for the second year running.

Suffolk Exotic Vets scooped two top gongs at the annual Excel Vet Awards in London.

Winner of Rabbit Vet of the Year was Catherine Thomas - whilst Rabbit Support Staff of the Year went to Jo Hambling.

It has been announced that the winners of the annual Excel Vet Awards, which celebrate veterinary practices and individuals who are committed to improving the lives of pet rabbits and guinea pigs across the UK. Suffolk Exotic Vets has been recognised for the second year running, scooping two awards for Rabbit Vet of the Year and Rabbit Support Staff of the Year.

A judging panel comprising of veterinary professionals and industry experts has chosen one winner across seven categories; Rabbit Vet of the Year, Rabbit Vet Nurse of the Year, Rabbit Friendly Practice of the Year, Rabbit Support Staff of the Year, Small Animal Student of the Year, Rabbit Awareness Week (RAW) Campaign of the Year and Guinea Pig Friendly Practice of the Year. The winners of each category have received a cash prize of £250, a trophy and certificate to display in their practice.

The judging panel considered different criteria for each category, with a particular focus on those who demonstrated outstanding knowledge and expert care for small animals, with testimonials from clients on how they have gone above and beyond for the care of their beloved pets to enhance their lives.

Dr Suzanne Moyes MVB MRCVS MBA, Deputy Managing Director at Burgess Pet Care, said: - “On behalf of all of the judges, I would like to congratulate Catherine Thomas and Jo Hambling at Suffolk Exotic Vets on their further recognition in the Burgess Excel Vet Awards.

“The Awards saw the highest number of entries to date and the quality of the nominations was fantastic, which made the task of choosing the winners very difficult. They should be very proud of their achievements.”

Winner of Rabbit Vet of the Year, Dr Catherine Thomas BVM&S CertAVP (ZM) MRCVS (pictured above) said: -

"I am really honoured to have received this award for the second year in a row. It       means so much to me that the award is based on nominations from owners as well as other professionals. I am really grateful that people have gone out of their way to say nice things about my work. I do feel really lucky to get to work with so many lovely rabbits and to be able to do what I can to make their lives better because I think that it is really important that rabbits have access to the best care."

Winner of Rabbit Support Staff of the Year, Jo Hambling AVLM (pictured below) said: -

"Winning such an award twice in a row is an absolute shock and honour! Bunnies are such complex little creatures that are so often overlooked when it comes to correct care and welfare; getting to look after and bond with patients every single day is a privilege and an absolute joy.

“To see my commitment reflected in such lovely nomination comments was quite overwhelming actually; it is a delightful feeling to know someone took time out of their lives to say such lovely things. 

“I am so grateful to work with some exceptional colleagues who have taught me so much in my five years working solely with exotics, and I dedicate this award to them!"