Chair, The Links Group Paula graduated from the Royal Veterinary College, University of London, in 1992. She spent 11 years in general practice before moving into a technical role in the industry in 2003. Paula joined Dogs Trust in 2010 and became Veterinary Director in 2011. Her responsibilities included veterinary matters, outreach work, and public affairs. She is a founding member, past treasurer of the Association of Charity Vets, and board member of the Blue Dog Trust. She is vice chair of the Canine and Feline Sector group, sits on the RSPCA’s Prosecutions Oversight Panel and is a member of the Scottish Animal Welfare Commission. Paula previously chaired the Pet Advertising Advisory Group and has sat on BVA's Policy Group and BSAVA's International Affairs and Scientific Committees. In 2017, Paula received BSAVA’s J A Wight Memorial Award for her contribution to the welfare of companion animals. In September 2023, Paula was awarded the WSAVA (World Small Animal Veterinary Association) One Health Award in Lisbon; in November 2024, the BVA Outstanding Service Award (Chiron Award) in London. Paula is a founding Trustee of the Links Group and is regularly involved in undergraduate training on Non-Accidental Injury (NAI) within UK veterinary schools.