Nominations sought for veterinary awards

Vets, scientists and veterinary students who carry out research in aid of dogs have the chance to be awarded for their work at the inaugural Kennel Club Charitable Trust Veterinary Awards. Nominations for the awards, underwritten by a gift from the Vernon and Shirley Hill Family Foundation, can be sent from now until 30 November. Created to recognise innovative researchers, veterinary scientists and students from around the world who have carried out research that has helped improve the health and wellbeing of dogs, the awards will identify and encourage visionary thinking, ambition and accomplishments within the field of canine health. Three awards will be given out: the Lifetime Achievement Award will be presented to someone who has made a significant impact on canine health on the world stage, along with £10,000 of funding; the International Prize in Canine Health Award is to be presented, along with £40,000, to someone currently involved in world class innovation but with plenty still to contribute; and the Student Inspiration Award comes with a £10,000 prize and will be given to an extraordinary student at a British veterinary school who demonstrates the potential to significantly advance the frontiers of veterinary medicine and research in the field of dogs. The awards will be judged by representatives from the veterinary profession and the world of scientific research. Dr Allen Kelley, Dean Emeritus of the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, will chair the committee entrusted with selecting the International Prize winner. Chief executive of the Kennel Club Rosemary Smart said: “We are extremely pleased to be working with Vernon and Shirley in this exciting awards scheme, which will reward and support those people whose work is making a difference to dogs’ lives.” Chairman of the Kennel Club Charitable Trust Mike Townsend added: “The Kennel Club Charitable Trust has been working with research facilities and veterinary medicine universities and organisations for more than 20 years, so we are proud to be able to recognise dedication and excellence in this field. “We encourage those whose work is making a difference to the future health of dogs to take the opportunity to enter these prestigious awards.” Vernon Hill, founder and president of Metro Bank, and Shirley Hill, whose Foundation underwrites the Awards (both pictured), said: “We look forward to our gift making a difference and supporting the future leaders in veterinary science.” For further information and to find out how to enter visit www.thekennelclub.org.uk/charitabletrust