Being a successful equine vet involves more than good clinical skills. Numerous non-clinical aspects are also involved in developing a thriving practice, which is why the BEVA Congress, which runs September 12-15, contains a wealth of sessions on succession planning as well as practice finance, human resources and marketing.

The BEVA Congress program is put together democratically, by equine vets for equine vets. This year, as well as compiling world-class scientific and clinical research programs the organizing committee has taken big strides to address the growing thirst for non-clinical know-how.

BEVA Congress committee member Colin Mitchell of Scott & Mitchell Associates, Hexham, has organized a strong selection of speakers from veterinary and other fields. The session on succession planning is likely to garner considerable interest from delegates following the response to last year’s corporatization debate. It will feature speakers from the corporate organizations that are increasingly prominent in equine practice and representatives from practices that have been through the process of corporatization. Alternative succession plans will also be discussed and accountants will provide an insight on the specifics as well as the concepts of transitioning practice ownership, practice finance and profitability.

There is also plenty of non-clinical content for assistants and vet nurses. Sessions include soft skills, mindset theory, marketing and social media, human resources, thriving in practice, adapting to the changing times of veterinary practice.

BEVA Congress committee chair David Rendle of Rainbow Equine Hospital, Malton, said: “Our non-clinical program reflects the results of this year’s members’ survey. 59% of survey participants reported that one of their biggest challenges is communicating with clients and managing expectations. Numerous respondents also identified financial and business management and career progression as significant challenges.”

BEVA Congress 2018 will be held at the popular ICC in central Birmingham from September 12-15. Take part in this year’s BEVA Congress theme ‘Plenty to smile about’ by joining BEVA’s #ilovebeinganequinevet social media campaign and submitting your own video. Visit https://www.bevacongress.org/i-love-being-an-equine-vet to find out more.

To view the full BEVA Congress program and to book your ticket visit www.bevacongress.org.