LGBT+ History Month role models: Dan Makin

What inspired your path into the veterinary profession?

Throughout my childhood I always wanted to be a vet, it goes without saying that I am an animal lover, but I was mainly driven by an interest in biology, anatomy and surgery. Sadly, I was discouraged from applying to vet school by my sixth form college, so I actually started studying medicine. After a few months at medical school I realised I still wanted to be a vet and was lucky enough to transfer.

What has been the most challenging part of your career?

I would say the most challenging aspect of my career has been navigating the common feelings of disillusionment many of us all face during our veterinary career. For a short period of time I was seriously looking at leaving the profession completely (I was going to join the police!). Thankfully, an amazing opportunity came my way and I haven’t looked back since.

What has been the best part of your career so far?

The highlight of my career so far has to be my year as President of the BVLGBT+. I was privileged to meet many new people during this year as well as achieve a greater understanding of the challenges felt by many of our LGBT+ colleagues. This has allowed me to contribute to many of the recent projects aimed at making our profession a more diverse and inclusive place to be.

What are your proudest achievements of your career?

My proudest achievement of my career has to be owning my own practice and watching it grow and develop whilst being able to lead a team of wonderful individuals in an environment that is safe and open and, most importantly, inclusive.

What advice would you offer to someone experiencing difficulty with their sexuality or gender identity?

I think the best advice I could give to someone who is struggling with their sexuality is to talk to somebody, whether that be a friend, a work colleague or on the phone to Vetlife or another support line. It is important to remember that you are never alone, there are many others that understand and have shared the same fears that you feel. We all have it in us to be strong, proud and be our true authentic self.

If there is one piece of advice you would give your younger self, what would that be and why?

The one piece of advice I would give to my younger self is not to wait so long to be yourself. It wasn’t until I was 28 that I ‘came out’ and I do regret taking so long. Life is too short to pretend to be someone else. It is the differences in people that make our world so amazing!

Further reading on LGBT+ History Month, BVLGBT+ and Vetlife

Head to LGBT+ History Month and British Veterinary LGBT+ Society to learn more.

Vetlife offer independent, confidential and free help for everyone in the veterinary community including veterinary nurses, students and non-clinical staff. If you or anyone you know is after support, Vetlife is here for you.