Paik Koh: Malaysia - Class of 2003

Veterinarian at Vets4Pets.

I was born and raised in Kuala Lumpur and always wanted to be a vet. I volunteered at my local vet practice and rescue centres, which was a very useful introduction to the practical realities of becoming an animal health professional. I’d certainly recommend that anyone thinking of becoming a vet does some volunteering too - just to check that it is definitely for them!

After graduating from the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies in 2003, I started work in a mixed practice in Fife. Getting to grips with horses, cattle and pigs was great fun, but lambing was my favourite time of year. It meant long days and little sleep, but it was great to be at the centre of such an important few weeks, with so many new lives coming into the world.

I then decided to concentrate on small animals, and worked at practices in Glasgow and Darlington, before returning to Edinburgh. I now work at Vets4Pets at Fort Kinnaird and see an interesting range of cases. I was surprised, but very pleased, to be shortlisted for the Vet of the Year Awards in 2013. Making it to the final 3, from the many thousands of vets who were nominated by their clients was pretty humbling.

I also return frequently to the Dick Vet, attending the Vet Clinical Club meetings to learn about the latest advances and techniques

I’m currently studying for a GP/ Post-Graduate Certificate in Small Animal Surgery, as surgery is a particular interest for me. I also return frequently to the Dick Vet, attending the Vet Clinical Club meetings to learn about the latest advances and techniques. I find these extremely useful and it’s lovely to return to the School and catch-up with familiar faces.