Sergio is our first resident to become a Specialist

We all love having Sergio as part of the team but this month has brought strong reason to celebrate as he got to have his Olympian moment, gaining the highest qualification in veterinary neurology – becoming an EBVS® European Specialist in Veterinary Neurology.

Sergio joined Dovecote in 2017, embarking upon the first residency to be introduced into CVS Group plc. He worked within the hospital and was integral to developing the team and service. After the three year course he worked hard within the hospital whilst revising and undertook the gruelling Diploma exams in June 2021.

For Sergio, this lifetime achievement is a goal he has been pursuing for many years. He says:

“I became aware that Neurology was a thing as a second-year veterinary student back in Portugal. My little dog called Poti suffered the most severe form of disc disease, progressive myelomalacia and a seed was planted. It has been a long road towards becoming a specialist, a journey that took me to so many different places and even countries. From the endless nights of my several internships, passing through the hilarious banter in first opinion practices throughout the UK (locum life!), to finally find a welcoming home at Dovecote in little but charming Castle Donington!

I cannot thank enough my family and friends which supported me along the way. I also would not have accomplished this without the support and guidance of both my supervisors, which gave me the chance of finally realising my professional dream. I am truly happy for having accomplished this alongside the wonderful people working with me at Dovecote and look forward to what the future brings!”

Mark Lowrie, Clinical Director at Dovecote and Sergio’s residency supervisor, said

“There is something special about working alongside a vet that strives to become the best they can in a given field. Sergio is an inspiration to all around him and he really shows the career progression that is open to all vets that consider work in referral practice. I have learnt lots from him and fully expect him to take larger steps in the profession and help nurture the vets of tomorrow. We are all lucky to work with him and are looking forward to the years ahead”.