LETTING THE CAT OUT OF THE BAG: The Secret Life of a Vet

Sion Rowlands

RIGHT SOLD: UK&Commonwealth/Two Roads/John Murray Press - Publishes 16th March 2023

RIGHTS AVAILABLE: North American, Translation, Film&TV and all other rights handled by the bks Agency

Trimming a parrot's beak, emptying a dog's anal glands and neutering a cat - then lunch - followed by some tricky horse dentistry, amputating a lamb's leg and calming a distressed client...

It's all in a day's work if you're a vet: a delicate balance of managing animal welfare and ethics, educating people in pet ownership and aligning their expectations with real-life outcomes. As a job, it spans everything from managing the heartbreak of euthanasia, to informing owners that under no circumstances should they take their dog's worming pills, even if they're sure they have worms.

During his twenty-five-year career, Welsh vet Siôn Rowlands has experienced almost every animal medical issue imaginable, from rescuing an injured horse from the edge of a cliff to moisturizing a baby elephant. He's also witnessed ridiculous moments, surreal situations and the real toll it can take on a person.

Frank, funny and moving in equal measure, Letting the Cat out of the Bag is a rare glimpse behind the scenes of the uniquely pressurised world of being a vet.

In the author’s words:

“It is a peculiar job, being a veterinary surgeon. One where the career sales pitch doesn’t quite match the product. Yes, wonderfully rewarding, mostly varied and occasionally inspiring, but, in equal measure, draining, stressful and frequently difficult.

‘You are so lucky’ … ’that’s my dream job’ … ‘you must love animals’ …are the common lines shared at almost every social gathering. I smile and nod politely. After twenty plus years however, I do struggle with the most obvious comment, 'animals can’t talk so your job must be so difficult.’

I have been fortunate to travel and work in a number of different countries with my career. I have seen more peculiar and strange things with owners and animals than I can count. Overall, these experiences demonstrate the unique roles that animals play in our lives.

In my book, I want to show the positive impact pets have on individuals and families matched by the crippling grief of their loss. I will also share my experiences with candid accounts of the most memorable moments a vet will face. This book will be a sneak peek behind the curtains and professional veneer of vets. Readers will come to learn about this fascinating side of medicine, and come to appreciate the daily human demands to this rewarding industry.  

Of course, the book will also be sprinkled with wacky moments, wicked humor, and a cornucopia of beloved animals.”

Siôn Rowlands studied Veterinary Science at Liverpool University, graduating in 1997. His career has been varied with roles both in the UK and Australia. He has worked with small and large animals in private practice and has extensive experience working as a government vet, with responsibilities including the delivery of animal health and welfare work across the UK. Siôn is passionate about highlighting the importance of veterinary surgeons and ensuring their voice adds value in the relevant and important conversations of today. He is also passionate about the next generation of vets, supporting them, where he can, to continue their work and their drive to protect and safeguard.