It was lovely to speak to the amazing Vikki who has such an interest in developing puppy training at the veterinary practice. “Hey! I'm Vikki, I have 13 years of veterinary practice experience from reception to RVN. Prior to vet life I lived/worked on a farm, gaining experience with cattle, sheep,youngstock, commercial cattery and kennel work, grumpy farmers, tetchy farm vets and plenty of 'old school' behaviour theory...I had a group of working border terriers/patterdales for 16 years and currently have a 1 year old working (eventually!) labrador.
I'm currently working in a small animal Vets for Pets clinic in Derbyshire, as a 5 year qualified RVN, having completed a level 3 fear free certificate, a COAPE behavior certificate in puppy behaviour and training, and more recently as a Dog friendly clinic advocate through the Dogs Trust scheme.
I'm hopefully starting a graduate certificate in advanced veterinary nursing (Behaviour) at Harper Adams university this year.
I offer a range of support throughout our practice from behavioural first aid interventions, management of surgical cases and behaviourally supportive careplans for surgical cases- extensive pre neutering and PVP assessments with the vets, to all colleague in house training, CPD sourcing and co-operative care clinic packages.
My aim is to educate our veterinary teams and clients in psychologically prophylactic approaches to veterinary care and treatment provision, in an accessible and positive way. Improving patient welfare, colleague welfare, client/practice bonding and co-operation.
I am also a neurodiversity advocate in the practice, tailoring our communication of care to ensure all clients can access in person or virtual support for co-operative care or low stress clinics, or for vet visits in general.”
