Eight award categories are available this year.

The awards celebrate unsung heroes within the veterinary profession.

Nominations for the 2026 BSAVA awards are now open.

Eight award categories are available this year, recognising individuals who have made significant contributions to veterinary science, research, clinical practice, education and small animal welfare.

Entries are open until 9 January 2026, and nominations are welcome from both BSAVA members and non-members. 

BSAVA honorary secretary Adam Gow said: “Each year, we’re proud to shine a spotlight on individuals who have truly made a difference in our profession. Nominating a colleague is a meaningful way to show appreciation and celebrate the impact they’ve had, so we encourage everyone to get involved and put forward those who inspire them.”

The 2026 BSAVA Award categories are:

• The Bourgelat Award - For outstanding international contribution to small animal practice or science in their widest context.
  
• The Simon Award - Recognising contributions to the advancement of all aspects of small animal surgery.
  
• The Woodrow Award - For significant contributions to the advancement of small animal medicine.
  
• The Des Thompson Award - New for 2026, this award recognises individuals who have had a significant impact upon general practice and/or their community.
  
• The Blaine Award - For contributions to the advancement of all aspects of non‑client facing small animal veterinary medicine.
  
• The BSAVA Veterinary Nurse Award - Recognising outstanding contributions to the advancement of small animal veterinary nursing.
  
• The Ray Butcher Award - For a non-veterinary individual who has been an ‘unsung hero’ by making a significant contribution to animal welfare in the community.
  
• The J.A. Wight Memorial Award - For a qualified veterinarian who has made an outstanding contribution to the welfare of companion animals. Presented by the Blue Cross.

Find full details and nomination forms at bsava.com/awards

Image (C) BSAVA.