Rethinking feline care: Carterton nurse recognised for clinical excellence

New Zealand,
Thu, 25/06/2026 - 09:30

NEW ZEALAND: Aoife Everton, a veterinary nurse at Horse & Cat Vet in Carterton, has been recognised with the 2026 Boehringer Ingelheim Clinical Excellence Award for her work improving the in-clinic experience and outcomes for feline patients.

Aoife Everton, a veterinary nurse at Horse & Cat Vet in Carterton.

The award recognises exceptional clinical skill, leadership, and a deep commitment to animal care. Aoife was recognised for her work advancing feline-focused care, contributing to the clinic’s International Society of Feline Medicine (ISFM) Cat-Friendly Clinic certification, and championing a more patient-centred approach to veterinary practice.

“It’s really special to be recognised,” says Aoife. “I don’t like sharing information unless I can back it up, so this award is really meaningful – I’m constantly doing CPD to improve my understanding, as well as actively researching where there are gaps.”

Originally from Ireland, Aoife moved to New Zealand more than 20 years ago, not expecting to stay, but quickly falling in love with the country she now calls home. While her early career had focused elsewhere, her love of horses and other animals led her to this work after arriving in New Zealand. After starting in a reception and support role, Aoife later returned to study after having her children, completing her degree while working in practice.

Aoife joined Horse & Cat Vet in Carterton when the clinic opened just over a year ago, helping establish the practice from the ground up. Founded by equine veterinarian Dr Louisa Broughton, the clinic was created with a vision for more specialised care for horses and cats – an approach Aoife has helped bring to life.

A key focus of Aoife’s work has been improving the in-clinic experience for cats, challenging long-held assumptions about how they respond to veterinary care. Her work has been instrumental in the clinic achieving ISFM Cat-Friendly Clinic certification, reflecting a strong focus on reducing stress and improving outcomes for feline patients.

“There’s often this idea that it’s unavoidable that cats are going to hate coming to the clinic,” she says. “But we’ve worked really hard to change that – using evidence-based approaches to create an environment where cats feel more secure and in control.”

“We try to avoid what’s known as ‘trigger stacking’,” Aoife explains. “This includes simple but impactful changes, such as allowing cats to remain elevated where they feel safer, reducing unnecessary handling, and giving them time and choice during examinations.”

In recognition of her achievement, Aoife has received a $3,000 professional development grant from Boehringer Ingelheim, which she plans to invest in further education in feline medicine and behaviour.

“Aoife is a great example of the future of care. She demonstrates a real passion and understanding for the animals she’s treating, and that’s helping to raise the bar when it comes to their care,” says Richard Duckworth, Head of Companion Animal, Boehringer Ingelheim New Zealand. “By sponsoring the NZVNA Clinical Excellence Award, we want to celebrate vet nurses and encourage professional development, and support passionate professionals like Aoife to continue making a difference in the industry.”