Speaker bio page for Melissa Donald

Bio

Melissa Donald graduated from Glasgow University in 1987 and started her career as a food animal intern at Iowa State University in the USA. In 1990 she joined a 2-person traditional mixed practice on the Ayrshire coast and over the following 25 years developed it (with the help of her husband) to a 4.5 vet 100% small animal practice, concentrating on dentistry and was the new graduate mentor. In 2004, Melissa became the Clinical Coach for the nurse training and later RCVS practical OSCE examiner for the VN exams. Outside of work, her family keep her grounded together with dogs, cats and sheep. Also, she is a keen (if slow) runner and keep fit enthusiast. In 2012, Melissa set up Eglinton parkrun, a volunteer based, weekly, free, community running event and was Event Director until 2014. She was a volunteer for the 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games. She is a past president of the Ayrshire Veterinary Association and has represented Ayrshire on BVA Council, also serving on their MSG committee.