In addition to an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the scientific and clinical aspects, veterinary students also need to have a grasp of the legal, ethical and social elements of veterinary practice. Thus, communication and interpersonal skills; responsible and professional behaviour, and an understanding of the business context of veterinary practice are now recognized as important areas that should be incorporated into veterinary curricula. With particular regard to the latter, it was a group of women veterinary surgeons in the UK who, in 1941, first called for business training to be included within veterinary programmes (Aitken, 1994). While.
