As March 8th approaches, we’re taking a moment to celebrate the remarkable women who have transformed veterinary medicine. Since that pivotal moment in 1919 when women were first permitted to join the veterinary register, we’ve seen a dramatic shift—women now make up roughly 60% of practicing veterinarians and an impressive 80% of veterinary students in the UK.
Aleen Cust: Determination Against All Odds
The path to this transformation began with trailblazers like Aleen Isabel Cust. Born in 1868 to an aristocratic Irish family, Aleen faced immediate opposition when she announced her veterinary ambitions—so much that she initially used the pseudonym “Custance” to spare her family embarrassment.
Despite family resistance, in 1895 she entered William Williams’ New Veterinary College in Edinburgh. Though she completed her studies, the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) refused to let her sit for her examinations in 1897.
Undeterred, Aleen established herself as an assistant to William Byrne MRCVS in Ireland, where her exceptional skills gradually earned community respect. She built such a reputation that Galway County Council appointed her as an inspector, though they were forced to drop “veterinary” from her title.
Aleen brought distinctive flair to her practice, making rounds either side-saddle on a white Arab stallion or driving a horse-drawn gig. Her vindication finally came after the 1919 Sex Disqualification (Removal) Act, when on December 21, 1922—a full 22 years after completing her education—she received her veterinary diploma.
She later shared practical wisdom at veterinary meetings, offering colourful advice like: “Don’t stand in front of a horse with tetanus when you’re going to shoot him, as he will fall right forward,” and “The screwdriver in your car is quite useful to puncture postpharyngeal abscesses.” This pioneer knew her craft!
Today’s Leaders: Carrying the Torch
The spirit of Aleen Cust lives on in today’s female veterinary leaders. Take Professor Susan Dawson, who smashed through the glass ceiling to become the first female Dean of Liverpool’s Veterinary School. With characteristic Scottish frankness, she acknowledges: “I wish I could say that I have never had negative comments about doing a job as a woman, but that would not be the case. However, my Glaswegian upbringing and slightly stubborn nature has allowed me to overcome these.”
Then there’s Dr. Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka, whose work with critically endangered gorillas has redefined conservation medicine. After becoming Uganda Wildlife Authority’s first veterinary officer, she founded Conservation Through Public Health, developing approaches that support both wildlife and surrounding human communities.
This Year’s Theme: Time to Step on the Gas
The 2025 International Women’s Day theme “Accelerate Action” couldn’t be more fitting for our profession. While we’ve made tremendous strides in representation, we’re still navigating challenges in leadership parity and compensation equity.
According to the World Economic Forum’s rather sobering projection, at our current pace, we’ll only reach full gender parity in 2158. That’s right – your grandchildren’s grandchildren might still be working on this issue! Clearly, we need to put our collective foot on the accelerator.
As Gemma Barmby, VMG Director and Business Consultant for Vet Dynamics, advises:
“Connect with people, talk to those who have already walked the path. Ask honest questions and look inside yourself to find your purpose and your passion.”
Liz Daniels, founder of Custard PR, adds her own seasoned wisdom: “Find a network of people you trust, work hard, embrace the learning and new knowledge. Say yes to opportunities and don’t be afraid to enjoy your progress.”
Specialisations: Breaking Into Every Field
Women veterinarians aren’t just increasing in numbers – they’re expanding their influence across every specialty. Dr. Jenifer Chatfield has carved out a space in the high-pressure world of exotic and disaster response medicine. Dr. Vanessa Ezenwa has established herself as a powerhouse in wildlife disease ecology. And former BVA President Dr. Daniella Dos Santos has championed diversity throughout the profession, noting: “Thanks to those women who went before me, I have been able to join this amazing profession and do a job I love.”
Looking Forward, Moving Faster
The story of women in veterinary medicine reflects persistence, resilience, and transformation. From Aleen Cust defying Victorian conventions to today’s leaders reshaping research, clinical practice, and policy, each generation has expanded possibilities for the next.
At NSV, we’re proud to support the advancement of women in veterinary medicine. We believe diverse perspectives strengthen our profession and improve animal care.
This International Women’s Day, let’s celebrate progress while committing to pick up the pace. After all, equality shouldn’t wait until the next century—and with collective action, it won’t have to.
