The Linnaeus-owned North Downs Specialist Referrals veterinary centre, in Bletchingley, Surrey, is celebrating after a double success for two of its existing ophthalmologists means the hospital can now boast one of the strongest ophthalmology teams in the UK.
Andra-Elena Enache and Savina Gogova have both been recognised as European specialists in veterinary ophthalmology, joining head of service Richard Everson in delivering the very highest level of eye care at NDSR.
Richard, an RCVS and European recognised specialist, said: “It is fabulous that Andra and Savina were both successful in their specialist examinations.
“Of course, we already knew their expertise but passing the examination requires not just an unparalleled knowledge of their subject but also the constitution that allows them to prove their knowledge, skills and professionalism in the crucible of the examination environment.
“For both Andra and Savina to pass at the first time of asking is remarkable and just confirms their brilliance. It’s also a big boost for NDSR.
“Having three internationally-recognised specialists in ophthalmology in one hospital makes the service so much more resilient; for example, we will never have to close due to annual leave or lecturing commitments.
“This strength in depth means we really can offer the best possible service to our referring vets and poorly pets.”
Andra-Elena, who joined NDSR after completing a three-year ophthalmology residency at the Royal Veterinary College, London in July 2020, is thrilled by her success and excited for the future.
She said: “I’m really looking forward to working alongside Richard and Savina to deliver the very best treatment available. I’m interested in all aspects of ophthalmology, with a particular interest in feline ophthalmology, uveitis, infectious keratitis and microsurgery and can’t wait to use my specialist skills to help our patients.”
Savina, who joined the NDSR team in October 2020, added: “I was lucky to train at a centre with a high corneal surgery caseload, prompting a particular interest in this field. I’m keen and committed to providing excellent patient care, building client relationships and ensuring regular communication with referring veterinary surgeons. I’m also aiming to contribute to the continuous development of other veterinarians in the field of ophthalmology.”
Andra graduated with a Bachelor and Master’s Degree in Veterinary Medicine from the University of Agronomical Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Bucharest, Romania in 2011.
After working in general practice, Andra undertook a doctorate in ophthalmology on uveitis in dogs and cats at the same University and moved to UK in 2013 to complete a small animal general internship in Manchester. She went on to work in general practice in South Yorkshire for a few years before completing a specialised ophthalmology internship at the Animal Health Trust, in Newmarket in 2017.
Andra completed a three-year ophthalmology residency at the Royal Veterinary College, London, in July 2020 and was awarded the BSAVA Postgraduate Certificate in Small Animal Ophthalmology with distinction in 2019 and a Master of Veterinary Medicine with distinction at the Royal Veterinary College, London in July 2020.
Savina graduated from the Autonomous University of Barcelona, Spain in 2014. After two years working in general practice, she developed a strong interest in ophthalmology and initially undertook a general rotating internship in the Veterinary Teaching Hospital of the same university. Afterwards, she completed a three-year specialist training programme in comparative ophthalmology before moving to the UK to join NDSR.
For more information on NDSR and its specialist-led services, visit their website.