Dr Sam Bescoby

BVSc CertAVP(EP) (ESO) (ED) FHEA MRCVS

Candidate 2 of 20 

Proposers: Professor John Remnant, Neil Townsend

Contact details 

Address The Old Thatch, Hill Lane, Weston in Gordano BS20 8PY

E [email protected]

W www.bescobyequinevets.co.uk

Candidate biography

My journey into veterinary medicine began with a passion for small animal care, but during my time at University of Bristol, I developed a strong interest in large animal work. After graduating in 2008, I started in mixed practice before completing an equine internship at the University of Liverpool. Since then, I have worked across both academic and private sectors in first-opinion and referral settings, gaining a broad perspective on the profession.

I am passionate about ensuring veterinary practice is both high-quality and sustainable. I have run my own first-opinion practice, worked within a large private group, and served as a clinical teacher at two UK universities. I have also been involved in professional regulation, sitting on the Farriers Registration Council’s regulatory panel, and have taught, examined, and mentored veterinary students and paraprofessionals.

Focusing on equine dentistry, I led the referral dental service at Langford Vets until its closure in 2021, after which I established my own practice, now dedicated exclusively to equine dentistry.

Outside of work, I enjoy family life with my two children and understand the importance of maintaining a balance between professional and personal commitments.

Candidate statement

Why do you want to stand to be a member of RCVS Council?

To contribute to the critical decisions made by RCVS Council that shape the future of our profession, ensuring Veterinary Surgeons are supported in delivering high standards of animal welfare and public protection while maintaining sustainable careers.

RCVS Council plays a crucial role in addressing major issues, such as the inclusion of paraprofessionals and their potential impact on veterinary roles, the effects of new vet schools on the EMS pool, and the barriers to specialist training for experienced vets. Past decisions – such as not insisting on vet-only ownership of practices – have had long-term consequences, and it is essential that future changes are carefully considered from all angles.

With experience across multiple areas of practice, I offer a broad and pragmatic perspective. I am committed to evidence-based decision-making and ensuring that regulation remains fair, practical, and beneficial for the profession and the public.

One of my key interests is the relationship between universities and private practice. The veterinary curriculum must align with the realities of the profession, ensuring students gain practical experience that prepares them for the challenges of clinical work. The growth of outsourced teaching models reduces the EMS practice pool but good quality experiences need to be available to all.

What do you think you can bring to RCVS Council?

I bring a balanced perspective to RCVS Council, informed by my experience in clinical practice, education, business ownership, and professional regulation. Having worked in both university teaching hospitals and private practice – across first-opinion and referral settings – I understand the varied pressures faced by veterinary professionals, from students and employees to business owners and clients.

My roles as a lecturer and examiner have given me valuable insight into veterinary education, including the challenges students face in transitioning into practice. Exposure to a wide range of clinical experiences during training is key to building confidence and competence. This, however, must be done without burdening individual practices with excess paperwork and planning.

Beyond education, I have a strong understanding of the commercial realities of veterinary practice, including recruitment challenges, financial pressures, out of hours provision, and the impact of regulations on both service provision and client care. I am comfortable analysing complex issues, standing firm on evidence-based principles, and collaborating to achieve balanced, workable solutions. I believe in regulation that is fair, sustainable, and adaptable to the diverse needs of the profession.

What relevant experience do you have?

My career has provided me with broad experience across clinical practice, education, business management, and governance – insights that are directly relevant to the work of RCVS Council.

I have worked in both university teaching hospitals and private practice, across referral and first-opinion settings, giving me a strong understanding of the challenges faced by veterinary professionals at all career stages. My roles as a lecturer, examiner, and mentor for vets, students, and paraprofessionals have given me a deep appreciation of professional development, regulation, and assessment.

Running my own equine practice has given me first-hand experience in business operations, recruitment, financial planning, and adapting to regulatory requirements. I have held Practice Standards accreditation, and subsequently chose not to renew it, so I understand both its benefits and its limitations for smaller practices.

These experiences have given me a clear perspective on how governance shapes the profession and the importance of balancing necessary standards with practical implementation. I am committed to making thoughtful, informed contributions to Council discussions and ensuring regulation serves the best interests of both veterinary professionals and the wider public.