From his journey as an equine vet to leading one of the UK’s major veterinary groups, Ben shares what he has learned about building teams, supporting veterinary professionals, and creating practices where people actually want to stay.

Together, they discuss the pressures facing the profession, the role of corporate ownership, and why better leadership, stronger culture, and a renewed sense of purpose may be key to helping vet med thrive again.

Claire shares her experience of rescuing and loving pugs with chronic health problems, from breathing struggles and mobility issues to eye ulcers, vet bills, daily care and the heartbreak of knowing when it is time to say goodbye.

Together, they explore why we fall so deeply in love with these “broken breeds,” the health problems humans have bred into them, and why loving an animal sometimes means facing very hard truths.

In this episode of Under the Fur, Dr. Vanessa sits down with fellow veterinarian Sarah, founder of Positivity in Practice, to talk honestly about vet school, burnout, mental health, leaving clinical practice, and finding a new purpose in helping veterinary professionals rebuild their confidence and self-trust.

Together, they open up about the pressure of becoming a vet, the lack of support many new graduates face, the emotional toll of clinical practice, and why the veterinary industry still has hope if real change happens from both the ground up and the top down.

Mel shares Harper’s story, from the first signs of decline to the painful decision to say goodbye. Together, they talk about the emotional and financial weight of pet care, the guilt many owners carry after euthanasia, and why open communication with your vet can make such a difference during the hardest moments.

This episode is also a reminder of the power of friendship, support and trusting your gut when making decisions for the animals we love most.