Meet the finalists: Rose Thompson-Turcotte

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

I graduated from Surrey University and have been qualified for a little over a year. I’ve been working within the profession since I was 15, filling most roles in practice—from reception to kennel assistant—and now I work full-time at an independent. My love for animals doesn’t stop at work. At home, I have a senior jack russell terrier cross who enjoys bumbling around the countryside and going for river swims with her mum.

What inspired you to pursue a career in veterinary medicine?

Being a vet is the only job I’ve ever considered pursuing. The role is compelling for obvious reasons: fixing and caring for animals is a privilege. But working as a vet also means forming bonds of trust with clients, being an active member of your community, becoming an advocate for animal welfare and doing good.

Working in this profession is a gift, and I am lucky to have had the support of my family and peers, who have allowed me the space and room to pursue it.

How does it feel to be a Young Vet of the Year finalist? 

This nomination is a real privilege. It’s a reflection on my team far more than on me! I am grateful to be working with such generous humans. I can’t pretend to feel like a particularly esteemed member of the profession so early on in my career but I'm so very honoured by this nomination.

My approach to this job has always been founded on doing the best I can for each person and animal that walks through the door. I’ve always worried about how I can do the ‘most good’ and felt guilty for indulging in the age-old childhood dream of looking after kittens when there is so much global turbulence. A saviour complex gets you nowhere, though. There is real value in giving people the space to be listened to without judgement, finding a compromise where welfare is prioritised, and focusing on patient dignity.

What has been your proudest achievement to date?

With my limited experience, I can’t claim to be wise or sage. I’m still yet to have a number of firsts, but I am proud of the dedication I give to the job and my patients. The high I get from trying a new surgery solo is incredible, but the satisfaction of managing a case from start to finish is unparalleled.

What advice would you give aspiring vets or those just starting out in their careers?

My advice to anyone starting out is to be guided by ethics and not undervalue the importance of listening. Physicians, on average, interrupt a patient within 11 seconds. If you can hang back when speaking to a client, you’ll gain valuable insight, important history, and build client trust.

BVA Young Vet of the Year Award is kindly supported by Zoetis.