LGBT+ History Month role models: Tom Doyle

Can you tell us what started/ inspired your path into the veterinary profession?

I spent much of my childhood on my cousins’ farm and around animals. It was an old-style small Irish mixed farm and the strongest memories from my childhood involve animals: catching ringworm from kittens, helping to move calves, riding donkeys or visiting my Granda’s new litter of puppies. I enjoyed science at school and so vetting was the obvious choice.

What has been the most challenging part of your career?

Working during the COVID pandemic has been testing, but undoubtedly the beginning of my career was the hardest. I didn’t have a great deal of support in my first job, and wasn’t out to my colleagues or my family and missed my university friends. It was a very confusing, exhausting time and I relied a lot on a small circle of friends. When I moved to my second proper job my best friend, who already worked there, had already told everyone I was gay; it was the first time I’d been completely out in a workplace and it was liberating.

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

I’m not sure I can name one thing. If you’ll forgive me the cheesiness, I think every day has something good to take from it. I really like learning new things, still enjoy looking after clients and still get my heart melted by a good-looking spaniel.

What are your proudest achievements of your career?

I’m proudest of the team we’ve built at our practice. Working in the same place for a long time brings its challenges but I’m constantly amazed by the dedication of my colleagues, their belief in what we do and their loyalty to the practice.

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

Take a leap and talk to someone you trust. I remember how terrified I felt carrying the secret of my sexuality around with me, afraid that someone might discover me. When my best friend worked it out and we talked about it I immediately felt better. I didn’t have a single spectacular coming out ‘moment’, but it all started from that first, difficult, honest conversation.

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

Don’t hold back from being honest about who you are because of how other people will feel; it’s not your job to help them feel better about your sexuality.  Oh, and work out the difference between deodorant and antiperspirant - it’s very important.