Nurse awarded prestigious bursary

VETS Now has hailed the outstanding clinical commitment and leadership skills of Alice Cheney after awarding her the 2025 Louise O’Dwyer Bursary.

Alice, a member of the group’s Hemel Hempstead emergency clinical team, said she was ‘truly honoured’ to receive the award.

She added: “Louise’s dedication to education and her infectious enthusiasm for emergency and critical care have inspired so many of us.

RVN Alice Cheney

“I hope to use this opportunity to deepen my expertise in medical nursing and share that knowledge with my colleagues, just as Louise did.”

Vets Now, which provides emergency care to dogs, cats and small animals, said that during her time as principal nurse manager (Maternity Cover) at Hemel Hempstead, Alice has championed team development, mentoring colleagues and encouraging further qualifications.

She introduced a skills rotation programme to ensure all team members, nurses, vets and animal care assistants alike, remain confident in essential procedures, and has played a key role in supporting new clinicians and fostering a collaborative approach to complex cases.

Alice plans to use the bursary funding to pursue a Post Graduate Certificate in Advanced Veterinary Nursing (Medical Nursing) at the Royal Veterinary College, aiming to bring fresh insights back to both the Hemel Hempstead and Milton Keynes teams.

Louise O'Dwyer

The bursary was established in 2019 following the untimely passing of Louise O’Dwyer, whose impact on the veterinary community endures through her teaching, publications, and the countless professionals she inspired.

The award is Vets Now’s tribute to Louise’s unwavering commitment to clinical excellence and the culture of learning she fostered.

Racheal Marshall, head of clinical nursing at Vets Now, said:“It’s a privilege to celebrate Louise’s legacy each year by supporting nurses who share her drive and compassion.

“Alice’s application stood out for her dedication to developing others and her vision for advancing patient care. We look forward to seeing the positive impact she will make.”

Applications for the 2026 Louise O’Dwyer Bursary will open in spring. All Vets Now nurses are encouraged to apply by answering three set questions about their ambitions and commitment to the profession.

Vets Now said Louise was renowned for her expertise, warmth, and generosity in sharing knowledge. Described by colleagues as “a true force of nature”, her legacy continues to inspire nurses across the UK and beyond.