News | The Veterinary Defence Society

Mutual Bonus Discount

£1.2 million in return of premium will be shared between eligible members who renew their VDS Practice Policy for 2024 by the end of December 2023.

2024 Renewals Open Soon

Find out the three simple steps we encourage Super Users to take now to make sure your practice is ready to apply to renew.

Carl Padgett - VDS Claims Consultant

A tribute to our dear friend and colleague, Carl 'Padge' Padgett. Cheers to you Padge; flick the throttle and enjoy the spin.

Who are the VDS? Who we are, what we do and why we do it

Who we are, what we do and why we do it. We're proud of our heritage. Explore the history of the VDS.

Understanding Significant Event Analysis

Significant event analysis is a constructive way to analyse adverse events in veterinary practice.

Supporting a colleague who has made a mistake

We consider how one might support a colleague who might be struggling with the emotional and the (perceived) reputational repercussions of making a mistake.

The role of communication in mistakes

Something goes wrong. A mistake is made. A complaint is lodged or potentially a claim is filed. But the impact of poor communication can have a far wider impact...

Going Green Earns the VDS Silver

Following their Bronze accreditation from awarded in December 2021, the VDS is proud to have now achieved Silver accreditation with Investors in the Environment (iiE).

Mighty oaks from little acorns grow

We know how important environmental sustainability is, so we’re asking for your support to help us reduce our paper use.

The Pros and Cons of Posting Online: Social Media Case Study

The effect of words posted online can be far reaching, as we see in this fictional veterinary case study.

Certificates of Examination of Horse Prior to Sale by Auction

Certificates of Examination of Horse Prior to Sale by Auction: a letter to VDS equine members

Exporting Your Animal Health Certificate Problems

Our claims team share the most common errors relating to AHC claims we have handled to date.

VDS continues to serve Irish members into 2021

The Central Bank of Ireland has granted the VDS authorisation for its Irish branch.