Colleague Spotlight

Kelly Tillett

Senior Equine Nurse

Animals, in particular horses, have always been a huge part of Kelly’s life. From the moment she learned to ride Kelly dreamed of owning a pony, which came to pass at 10. From then on, Kelly aspired to learn as much as she could about horses, including veterinary care.

It was no surprise that Kelly decided to enter the veterinary profession when she left school. She secured a nurse training position in a small animal clinic where she learned all aspects of medicine and surgery. 

To continue her training Kelly then moved to a small animal hospital and mixed practice. Here she loved the mix of small animal, farm and equine work - eventually deciding that equine practice was the route she wanted to specialise in. 

After qualification as an RVN Kelly moved to Bell Equine where she completed her equine veterinary nurse qualification. In 2001 she was awarded a RCVS Travel Scholarship which she used to travel to Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital in Kentucky and The University of Liverpool’s Philip Leverhulme Hospital to study neonatology and critical care. 

Kelly remained at Bell Equine Veterinary Clinic for 12 years before moving to Newnham Court Veterinary Hospital as Nursing Manager. During her time there she decided to read Midwifery at university. Here she combined her veterinary nursing work and her studies, qualifying as a Midwife and completing her preceptorship. This amazing experience, although challenging, helped Kelly gain new skills which she was able to apply to veterinary practice.

In 2021 Kelly returned to Bell Equine as Head Nurse and worked with its senior leadership group to develop the business, staff and clinical services. Collaboration with leaders in CVS also allowed Kelly to contribute to the development of its Nursing Career Pathway and Equine Nursing Committee. Inspired by CVS support for the progression of veterinary nurses, and wanting to champion fulfilling careers, Kelly applied for the Senior Equine Veterinary Nurse Role. 

Kelly is married with two daughters. They have a menagerie of horses, dogs and cats which keep them busy – and love to compete in show jumping and showing competitions!