Nick Bacon, MA, VetMB, CertVR, CertSAS, DipECVS, DACVS, FRCVS, is clinical director, oncologic and soft tissue surgery at Fitzpatrick Referrals – but has recently branched out into a new sector in a bid to help the homeless population’s pets. Here, he explains what inspired him to get involved with non-profit animal welfare charity StreetVet, and why he believes it is important the veterinary profession gives back in such a way.

Not everything is as straightforward as it seems in the confusing world of veterinary recruitment. Here, former AVS president David Charles offers a beginner’s guide to translating graduate job ad jargon.

In his latest article, Dave Beeston writes about one of his proudest moments of the year so far.

Rich Casey will be a busy man during the next 12 months after replacing Gillian Page as VMG president at SPVS/VMG Congress. He is also head of clinical development at Blue Cross – but found time to step into the Examination Room to tell us about his life and work in the veterinary industry…

Mike Davies, BVetMed, CertVR, CertSAO, FRCVS, discusses the duty of care veterinary practices have towards staff, clients and other visitors, along with the importance of implementing adequate biosecurity procedures to minimise the transmission risk of any potential zoonotic infectious agents in situ.

Roger Blowey, BVSc, BSc, FRCVS, reviews the 2019 Lameness in Ruminants Conference, which was held in the Asakusa region of Tokyo, Japan.

Ali Budgell, BVetMed, MRCVS reports on the Veterinary Christian Fellowship’s latest event, which saw members consider the evidence base that can be applied when presented with these cases.

Jenny Stavisky BVM&S, PhD, PGCHE, FHEA, MRCVS, Jade Statt BVMS(Hons), DVM GP, CertSAM, MRCVS, and Ruth Serlin BVetMed, CertVA, PGCAP, FHEA, MRCVS, bring ogether their knowledge around provision of accessible veterinary care for homeless people and their pets, outlining the challenges and rewards in this growing area of practice. They explore the practical, logistical and regulatory issues affecting this type of enterprise, plus describe how volunteering presents opportunities for veterinary professionals and students, and offers the public a fresh view of the professions.

Third-year University of Liverpool veterinary student BECKY MILNER explains the concept and benefits of the Small Animal Veterinary Surveillance Network, as well as her role in helping promote it to veterinary practices across the country.

In his final column of the year, Chanticleer casts a weather eye over the potentially troubled waters ahead.

Ela Russell, a fourth-year veterinary student, summarises a visit by this professor of animal science, animal behaviour consultant and autism spokesman.