This month we sadly said goodbye to our Head Vet, Dr Ursula Goetz, after 10 years at Mayhew. As well as heading up our Community Vet Clinic, Ursula has trained vets from around the world and worked with Mayhew International, passing on her amazing knowledge and skills. We asked Ursula to reflect on her time at Mayhew.

“Everyone at Mayhew is passionate about animal welfare – from our Trustees to our CEO, Caroline, through to every employee, our students and volunteers. This results in a really supportive environment, with each animal being given the full attention they deserve when they need it.  There has been significant change and growth over the past 10 years; the Community Vet Clinic has grown four-fold and has been completely rebuilt into the modern, efficient new building we have today. None of this would have been possible without everyone’s support and the trust of our donors that we will use their donations mindfully and wisely.”

“While at Mayhew, I have also been given the opportunity to expand my veterinary expertise, studying for further qualifications which I have put to good use teaching vets and veterinary students from more than 20 different countries. I believe that teaching the principles of surgery and leading by example to treat each animal with compassion and care has the biggest impact to improve animal welfare within our local communities, as well as internationally.”

“Mayhew International works with governments, municipalities, communities and charitable groups to help improve animal welfare overseas. The projects are strategically planned and executed, and it has been enormously fulfilling to see the impact of our work on a grass-roots level, within shelters and beyond. Being part of Mayhew International projects, whether this was in Nepal, Peru, India, Georgia or Russia, has helped me to appreciate what we have here in the UK.”

“Working in remote and underdeveloped areas challenges you to think outside the box. I remember suddenly needing my bicycle light when there was a power cut in the middle of surgery, and using an empty plastic bottle filled with warm water to keep animals warm after an operation. It was humbling, and showed me the urgent and desperate need for help, advice and training to improve the lives of animals and their communities.”

“I can honestly say that every international trip has taught me something; I feel in some ways as much of a student as the vets I teach. And there is nothing more rewarding than seeing vets I have trained become teachers themselves – seeing that passion to make a difference multiply. I have been very fortunate to work with the best team here and also with Dr Ana in Georgia, who I met when she was still a student and who is now training vets locally.”