Throughout Pride Month, BVNA will be raising visibility of the LGBTQIA+ community within the veterinary nursing profession. In this blog, we hear from Josh Kidd, who takes us through his journey towards not only self-acceptance, but also pride in his identity. Also as a proud RVN, Josh shares with us the positivity he has experienced as part of the BVLGBT+ community.

Originally from Yorkshire, I moved down to Bristol following university when I was offered a job working with the RSPCA. Since then, I have moved into the private sector, qualified as a Registered Veterinary Nurse in 2021, and most recently completed my postgraduate degree in Advanced Veterinary Nursing. Last year, I also became Deputy Head Nurse at a practice that I could not be more proud to be part of.

Pride means a great deal to me. I still remember very clearly the dread and shame I felt at the thought of anyone finding out that I was gay. The people who know me now may find it hard to believe that I was ever able to hide my sexuality, but those feelings of guilt made the closet feel like my real home. Looking back, coming out at 17 years old was probably the most nerve-racking experience of my life. It was also the best decision I have ever made.

Today, I could not be more proud to be part of both this community and this profession. As an RVN, being able to help pets and their owners through the most challenging times really does bring me so much joy. Seeing an owner with a smile on their face alongside their dog with a wagging tail really is such a rewarding experience.

I also could not be more proud of being a gay man. For the last three years, I have been able to join the BVLGBT+ community and march in London Pride. Being part of this community and seeing people come together in support of love, acceptance and solidarity is such a privilege. I hope that the young, scared teenager I once was would be able to look at the person I am today with pride.

Thank you, Josh, for being willing to share your experiences with us.

To help BVNA to promote a more inclusive, supportive and representative profession, we’d love to hear from those within the LGBTQIA+ community and allies with your experiences. Please get in touch at bvna@bvna.co.uk.