Veterinary Events and Conferences

SPVS/VPMA Congress 2016 hits the 500 delegate mark

vetreportFebruary 2, 2016

Over 500 Practice Managers, Practice Owners and others with an interest in the business and management of Vet Practice attended the third combined SPVS/VPMA Congress on 29/30 January at the Celtic Manor Resort in Newport, South Wales. Many practices brought several members of their teams and in total over 210 different practices were represented. The exhibition sold out with 63 companies represented.

 
Congress was opened by Alastair Campbell, communications strategist, writer, mental health campaigner and son of a Yorkshire vet. ‘Supervet’, Professor Noel Fitzpatrick took questions from the congress audience covering the impact of his television programme to how vets can work with clients to ensure treatment choices are in the best interests of pet and owner.

 
A stream on Mental Health in partnership with RCVS Mind Matters Initiative was chaired by Radio 4 presenter, Claudia Hammond and challenged stigma around mental health within the profession with contributions from vets and a practice manager who had first hand experience. Other sessions covered leadership, the art of pricing, and what vets can learn from the NHS. Rick DeBowes, from Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine, wowed audiences with his high energy sessions on leadership, as did Bash Halow, also from the US with his marketing and social media insights.

 
Congress attendees were able to meet with 63 leading suppliers, many launching new business and management-related products and services.
The following quotes from delighted delegates and exhibitors suggest that this event, where the practice team comes together, is now firmly positioned as one of the most popular in the UK veterinary calendar:

 
As a first time attendee, I was impressed by the breadth of themes…. high profile speakers gave a really professional feel
Alastair Campbell, as opening speaker was phenomenal…. the lectures were thought provoking and interesting
Best two days of the year again. A chance to bond with our practice management team.
Friday ball was excellent … and an opportunity to catch up with old friends

 
Coming to Congress was the best decision of the year so far….. I spent the whole day in the exhibition and made some great business contacts for my new practice
Photographs are now available to view and download at www.spvs-vpma-events.co.uk along with slides from the congress speakers. For further details, call Keystone on 01453 872731.