A new XLVets event exploring the interconnected health of animals, people and the planet has been hailed a success and is set to become an annual fixture.
The inaugural Future Horizons One Health Day brought together veterinary professionals, sustainability leaders and industry partners at Brockholes Nature Reserve in Lancashire to share ideas, experiences and practical approaches to creating a more sustainable future for the veterinary profession.
Hosted by XLVets, the event was inspired by the organisation’s Just Cause: "collaborating for the interconnected health of animals, people and the planet". Developed by the XLVets board and CEO Kerrie Hedley, the Just Cause provides a shared purpose for member practices and reflects a growing commitment to One Health principles across the veterinary sector.
The programme featured a range of expert speakers and member-led case studies covering sustainability, antimicrobial stewardship, responsible medicine use and environmental responsibility. Delegates heard from David Black of Paragon Veterinary Group and Vet Sustain, who explored the role of veterinary professionals in advancing animal, human and environmental wellbeing, while Dr Matt Sawyer from the Centre for Sustainable Healthcare shared insights from human healthcare on reducing emissions, waste and costs through sustainable practice.
Industry partners Zoetis, Boehringer Ingelheim and FluoretiQ also contributed sessions focused on antimicrobial resistance, responsible prescribing and the potential of rapid diagnostics to support evidence-based decision making.
XLVets member practices showcased practical initiatives already making a difference, including renewable energy projects, targeted parasite control, antimicrobial stewardship programmes, pasture management approaches and innovations such as anaesthetic gas capture and on-site oxygen generation.
Reflecting on the event, Kerrie Hedley said: “It’s clear that meaningful progress depends on collective action and continued collaboration. The Future Horizons One Health Day demonstrated how independent veterinary practices are translating One Health principles into practical, lasting change.”
Following positive feedback from delegates and speakers, Future Horizons One Health Day will return in 2026, continuing to support collaboration and knowledge sharing across the profession.
