b'PROFILEDR VICTORIA HUTCHINGSDr Victoria Hutchings BVSc CertSAS BSc MRCVS Surgical Registrar never set out to become a specialist surgeonbut an unexpected passion for surgery led her on a transformative career path from general practice to referral work. Now a small animal surgical resident at frank. Pet Surgeons, she shares how taking brave career leaps, embracing lifelong learning and building resilience through challenges has shaped her journey so far. From presenting award-winning research on the international stage to mentoring the next generation of vets, she reflects on what truly drives her, the lessons shes learned along the way, and her advice for those considering a similar route.Please give a brief summary of your career path so farfeel free to share what motivated your career decisions: My journey to becoming a small animal surgeon was quite unexpectedI always knew I wanted to be a vet from the age of eight, but I thought that would be in mixed practice and never envisioned becoming a specialist. I worked in general practice after qualifying from the University of Bristol and found myself exposed to a high surgical caseload, which led me to complete a surgical certificate to improve my skills and knowledge in that area.I was amazed by the expertise of the specialist lecturers, and I thought to myself I would love to reach that level,What is it about your work that enthuses but it didnt seem a realistic option atI enjoy being a that stage of my career.you and brings you satisfaction? Helping pets get their quality of lifetrusted resource After attending CPD events andback, while supporting their owners, isfor referring vets spending time at frank. Pet Surgeonsincredibly fulfilling. Continual learning in Leeds, I took the leap and joined theand development - whether thatsand supporting team as a surgical intern in 2021 aftermastering new, cutting-edge surgicaltheir clinical eight years in general practice.techniques, or refining my ability to critically evaluate evidence todecision making, as Supported by the team at frank., I started my surgical residency inimprove patient care - keeps that workwell as mentoring August 2022 and have had incrediblechallenging and exciting too.other vets and opportunities while completing it. IveI enjoy being a trusted resource for led my own research project in humeralreferring vets and supporting theirnurses within the intracondylar fissures in French Bulldogsclinical decision making, as well asfrank. Pet Surgeons which I have presented to the ECVS inmentoring other vets and nurses within Krakow, and was awarded the ECVSthe frank. Pet Surgeons team.team. Small Animal Orthopaedic Resident Forum Award (2023). I was subsequentlyIve also spent a lot of time on research invited to speak at the ACVS in Kentucky,and seeing that contribute to better and am also a member of the IVCwelfare and surgical outcomes is deeply Evidensia Referrals Clinical Board.rewarding. www.inspiredvet.co.uk9'