Supplier Burgess Excel has announced the winners of the Burgess Excel Vet Awards 2025, which are designed to celebrate outstanding achievement, dedication and innovation across the UK’s small animal veterinary community.
The awards were established in 2020 to recognise individuals and practices demonstrating exceptional commitment to the treatment and welfare of small animals.
This year’s winners were selected following a judging process by a panel of veterinary and animal welfare professionals, including Burgess Pet Care deputy managing director Dr Suzanne Moyes alongside Dr John Chitty, Mary Coles, Rae Walters, Dr Sean Wensley, Samantha Ryan and Lucy Edwards.
The Rabbit Vet of the Year was named as Sonya Miles from Highcroft Exotic Vets. One of her customers described Miles as having “exceptional” compassion and dedication to rabbits and praised her kindness and empathy.
New for 2025 was the Guinea Pig Vet of the Year category, won by Marende De Gier of Dick Vet Rabbit and Exotic Animal Practice, while Highcroft Exotic Vets took home Guinea Pig Friendly Practice of the Year for the second year in a row.
Dr Moyes commented: “The quality of nominations we received this year was remarkable. It was lovely to read all the customer testimonials. They show that for veterinary professionals, this isn’t just part of the job. Every animal is treated as if they were their own. We’re incredibly proud to celebrate the achievements through the Burgess Excel Vet Awards. Not only of the winners, but all the nominees.”
Full list of winners:
Rabbit Vet of the Year: Sonya Miles from Highcroft Exotic Vets.
Guinea Pig Vet of the Year (new for 2025): Marende De Gier from Dick Vet Rabbit and Exotic Animal Practice.
Rabbit Vet Nurse of the Year: Courtney Marshall from The Pet Vet Nottingham.
Small Animal Support Staff of the Year: Ally Stevens from Highcroft Exotic Vets.
Rabbit Practice of the Year: Evolution Exotic Referrals.
Small Animal Student of the Year: Emily Buckley, a Royal Veterinary College 2025 Graduate.
Small Animal Campaign of the Year: Plymouth Vet Group.
Guinea Pig Friendly Practice of the Year: Highcroft Exotic Vets.
