We are delighted to announce that our Chair and founding trustee, Dr Paula Boyden, was awarded the British Veterinary Association’s Outstanding Service Award (Chiron Award) last night at the BVA Awards Dinner at the five-star London Marriott Hotel Canary Wharf.
The BVA Outstanding Service Award (Chiron Award) is given for contributions to veterinary science for services to the profession, judged as being of a calibre commanding international or interprofessional recognition. Paula received this award for her extensive contributions to pet health and welfare and One Health. As Chair of the Links Group, Veterinary Director at Dogs Trust, and her work with other sector groups, she has improved the lives of dogs, veterinary professionals and animal owners across the UK and beyond. Her work through The Links Group has made an impact on allied professionals working in safeguarding and abuse of people. BVA says, “Her articles, speeches and public affairs campaigns have also been incredibly impactful in raising awareness of key issues affecting animal welfare and the veterinary profession”.
Paula is no stranger to awards ceremonies, having received BSAVA’s JA Wight Memorial Award in 2017 and WSAVA’s Global One Health Award in 2023. In her typically modest manner, Paula says: “It is a huge honour to be this year’s recipient of the BVA Chiron award. When I look at previous recipients, I am truly humbled to be nominated and recognised for the work that I am so passionate about. I’m incredibly privileged to have worked with some amazing people in the veterinary and welfare sectors. This award is a reflection of their dedication and hard work. My Links Group colleagues, past and present, have worked tirelessly to raise awareness of animal abuse and the link to the abuse of humans, both within the profession and beyond. Similarly, I am very proud of the work of my Dogs Trust colleagues in improving dog welfare. Long may we continue to shine a light on animal welfare and our amazing profession.”
During the evening, Eddie Clutton, Clinical Director of the Wellcome Trust Critical Care Laboratory for Large Animals (Roslin Institute), was also presented with the BVA Advancement of Veterinary Science Award (Dalrymple-Champneys Cup and Medal) for the distinctive contributions he has made to the field of veterinary anaesthesia.
BVA President Elizabeth Mullineaux said: “Our profession is full of incredible people, but some do stand out for their amazing work and commitment to the sector. Throughout their careers, both Eddie and Paula have made a huge impact on the lives of countless animals and on the profession itself. They continue to make a difference today, and we are very proud to acknowledge their dedication. Thank you both for all you do, and congratulations, you are both most worthy recipients of these awards.”
British Veterinary Association President Dr Elizabeth Mullineaux said about the awards: “Whether working in small animal, equine or farm practices or in a wide range of non-clinical roles, vets make a vital contribution to society. The BVA Awards is an opportunity to showcase the very best of their achievements, from our committed early career vets and teams going the extra mile to support well-being to practitioners with long and outstanding careers with lasting impact. Congratulations to this year’s winners, who should all be incredibly proud of what they have achieved not only for themselves but on behalf of the whole profession.”
(From BVA’s Outstanding Service Award 2024 presented at the first BVA Awards Dinner)
The Links Group team would like to give our thanks to BVA for recognising Paula’s immense contributions to animal welfare and One Health One Welfare, and we want to say a huge WELL DESERVED, PAULA!!!
