Zaila Dunbar scooped the coveted ‘Vet of the Year’ title

An animal lover who dedicates her life to caring for Brent’s poorly animals has been named the country’s best vet at an annual award ceremony.

Zaila Dunbar, who works at Queens Park Veterinary Clinic in Lonsdale Road, Queen’s Park, fended off stiff competition from 3,000 other applicants to be handed the title of ‘Vet of the Year’.

The 36-year-old said: “I’m completely overwhelmed; this is such a wonderful award to receive and a fantastic achievement.”

Zaila has been working at the clinic for the last seven years caring for Brent residents’ injured animals but she was quick to praise both her co-workers and other animal lovers in the borough.

“I’ve learnt so much from all the clients and people I work with and their continued support makes me who I am” – she said.

Zaila was crowned the winner based on both her extensive medical knowledge and empathy towards animals.

Isabella von Mesterhazy, head of marketing at Petplan’s, who organise the awards explained: “The awards are about thanking the Veterinary profession for the outstanding level of care they provide to our animals.

“Zaila is a fantastic example of the exceptional service vets provide to clients and their pets.

“We are delighted to name her Petplan’s Vet of the Year 2012.”