NAVP Awards 2025: Celebrating Excellence in Veterinary Physiotherapy
The NAVP Awards shine a spotlight on individuals who have demonstrated exceptional skill, leadership, and dedication within the veterinary physiotherapy profession. These awards are more than accolades, they represent the passion and perseverance that drive our industry forward.
This year’s winners embody the very best of veterinary physiotherapy, each with a unique journey and inspiring story. Let’s meet the professionals who are setting new standards and shaping the future of our field.
Sarah Keith – Large Animal Practitioner of the Year
Sarah Keith’s journey took her from an Animal Behaviour & Welfare degree to roles in the RSPCA and teaching before she transitioned into full-time practice. Today, she works with elite sports horses and has achieved her dream of being “in the thick of it” at top-level events like Burghley Horse Trials.
“This award means so much because it’s judged by peers, not by social media metrics, but by professional ability.”
Her advice for aspiring practitioners?
“Find your niche and run with it. Decide whether to go employed or self-employed, and work hard to get and keep clients. Your USP matters, make sure people know what makes you different.”
Emma Box – Small Animal Practitioner of the Year
Emma Box’s passion for animals and sport led her to veterinary physiotherapy after an inspiring experience shadowing an ACPAT physiotherapist at Fitzpatrick Referrals. Today, she works in a referral hospital, where she sees patients through their entire rehabilitation journey and champions multidisciplinary care.
“Driving positive change can be exhausting, so this recognition means the world to me.”
Emma’s advice for those starting out?
“You don’t have to have everything figured out. Learn as much as you can, seek CPD, and develop non-clinical skills like communication and stress management. Mistakes will happen, what matters is how you respond and grow.”
Matthew Scott – Contribution to the Wider Industry
Matthew Scott’s career began at Harper Adams University as part of the first undergraduate cohort in veterinary physiotherapy, a pioneering experience that set the tone for his future. His placement at the Queen’s Mother Hospital sparked a passion for neurological rehabilitation, leading to roles at the Animal Health Trust, an independent rehab centre, and now the Queen’s Veterinary School Hospital at the University of Cambridge.
As NAVP Chair, Matthew has worked tirelessly to strengthen the profession through education, standards, and collaboration.
“Being able to contribute to our industry has been incredibly rewarding… To be recognised by my peers is very humbling.”
Matthew’s advice for newcomers?
“Get involved with NAVP activities, build your network, and don’t panic if your case load takes time to grow, success will come.”
Annabelle Galt – Veterinary Business of the Year
Annabelle Galt’s career began with aspirations of becoming a vet, but a year immersed in the eventing world changed everything. Inspired by the impact physiotherapy had on performance and wellbeing, she built AG Veterinary Physiotherapy into a thriving business known for excellence and teamwork.
“Winning this award acknowledges the quality of care we provide and the incredible team behind our success.”
Her advice for newcomers?
“Stay curious and committed to learning. Build a strong network, trust the process, and always put animal welfare at the heart of everything you do.”
Celebrating Excellence and Looking Ahead
These four professionals represent the heart of veterinary physiotherapy, passion, perseverance, and a commitment to improving animal health and wellbeing. Their stories remind us that success comes from hard work, collaboration, and continuous learning.
Want to be part of this incredible community?
Join NAVP today and discover opportunities for networking, CPD, and professional growth. Together, we can continue to raise standards and shape the future of our profession.
Lone Working in Veterinary Physiotherapy: Risks, Safety and Best Practice
Lone Working Guidance for Veterinary Physiotherapists
Veterinary physiotherapists often work in varied and sometimes unpredictable environments. Whether attending stables, veterinary practices, or clients’ homes, sometimes at short notice, lone working is a common aspect of the profession.
The National Association of Veterinary Physiotherapists (NAVP) is committed to supporting members in managing the risks associated with lone working, ensuring both professional standards and personal safety are upheld.
What Is Lone Working?
Lone working refers to situations where a veterinary physiotherapist operates without direct supervision or support from colleagues. This typically includes visits to clients’ homes, equestrian yards, or remote rural locations.
While our members are passionate about animal care, it’s important to recognise that lone working can be physically and emotionally demanding.
Key Risks and Challenges
- Animal Behaviour: Animals in pain or discomfort can react unpredictably. Safe handling and restraint can be particularly challenging when working alone.
- Environmental Hazards: Remote locations may have poor mobile signal, difficult terrain, or limited lighting, making emergency response more difficult.
- Client Interaction: Working with unfamiliar clients can present risks, especially when background information is limited.
- Mental Health: Isolation can contribute to stress and burnout. NAVP encourages regular peer engagement and offers support through our Welfare Officer, Sarah Powdrill-Wells. Mentoring and debriefing opportunities are available via our Facebook page and in-person events.
- Personal Safety: Personal safety is paramount. NAVP recommends:
- Carrying a personal safety alarm to deter threats and attract attention.
- Using GPS-enabled safety apps for real-time location sharing and emergency alerts.
- Keeping a live diary or digital calendar with appointment details, accessible to a trusted contact.
- Informing someone of your whereabouts before each visit, including location, expected duration, and check-in/check-out times.
- Trusting your instincts — if a situation feels unsafe, it is appropriate to leave and reschedule.
Mitigating Risks: Best Practice Guidelines
- Pre-Visit Risk Assessment: Gather patient history and assess environmental factors. If conditions are unsafe, it is acceptable to postpone treatment.
- Communication and Monitoring: Share your schedule and location with a trusted contact. Use live location sharing and ensure your phone is charged and accessible.
- Safe Animal Handling: Create a calm environment, ensure the owner is present, and use appropriate restraint techniques. If the environment becomes unsafe due to the animal’s behaviour, maintain a safe distance and consider a “hands-off” approach for the remainder of the session, provided this does not escalate the situation. It may also be necessary to enlist the help of another professional, such as a clinical behaviourist, to proceed with rehabilitation. If assessment or treatment remain ineffective and the animal becomes increasingly agitated, it is in the best interest of both the animal and your own safety to leave and reschedule the appointment.
- Emergency Preparedness: Know the emergency procedures at the facility. Carry a personal first aid kit and confirm one is available on-site.
- Personal Safety Equipment: Use personal alarms and safety apps. Maintain a live diary and communicate your movements clearly.
Legal and Ethical Responsibilities
NAVP members must adhere to a strict code of conduct prioritising animal welfare and professional integrity. Lone working must never compromise safety. All visits should be documented, and any incidents, regardless of severity, must be recorded.
Members must hold valid insurance, including professional indemnity and public liability, with certificates submitted to the NAVP Secretary annually.
Conclusion
Lone working is a routine and often unavoidable part of being a veterinary physiotherapist. By following best practices, conducting thorough risk assessments, and prioritising communication and safety, NAVP members can protect themselves while delivering high-quality, compassionate care.
For further guidance and support, visit www.navp.co.uk.