Emily sitting on a bench with two dogs

Celebrating Excellence: Student Veterinary Nurse – Emily McGill

At The College of Animal Welfare, we take immense pride in the accomplishments of our students, both during their time with us and as they progress into their professional careers. As such, we are thrilled to extend our congratulations to Emily McGill, one of our student veterinary nurses, for her exceptional contribution to an award-winning initiative at Yorkshire Vets.

Emily, as part of a dynamic and forward-thinking team at Yorkshire Vets, recently won the prestigious RCVS Quality Improvement Champions Award as part of the RCVS Knowledge Awards 2024. This accolade was awarded in recognition of a remarkable initiative aimed at reducing the use of oxygen and volatile anaesthetic gases within their practice. Spearheaded by the nursing team, this initiative has not only enhanced the quality of care for their patients but also significantly reduced the environmental impact of their operations.

The project involved a meticulous audit of fresh gas flow rates, leading to a substantial reduction in the use of oxygen and isoflurane. This initiative is a shining example of how veterinary professionals can make a tangible difference in both animal welfare and environmental sustainability.

The results of this initiative are very impressive. The reduction in oxygen and isoflurane use has lowered the practice’s carbon footprint by an amount equivalent to driving 2,023 miles—roughly the distance from London to Rome and back. This achievement underscores the critical role that veterinary professionals can play in promoting eco-friendly practices within their field.

Emily’s dedication, expertise, and commitment to quality improvement have been integral to the success of this initiative. Her work exemplifies the values we regard highly in our students: excellence, innovation, and a profound commitment to animal welfare and environmental issues.

Congratulations Emily!