Episode 10: Dan Makin

Dan Makin – Pride, Purpose & the Power of RepresentationIn this Pride Month special episode of Meet the Animal People, Chris Whatling speaks with Dan Makin, a small animal vet with over 22 years of experience and a passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion in the veterinary profession.Dan opens up about his journey from being a bullied child to becoming a respected veterinary professional, reflecting on how those early experiences shaped both his identity and his career. He shares the emotional challenges of school and vet school, and the powerful impact of finally finding a sense of community and acceptance within the profession.In this heartfelt conversation, Dan and Chris explore the importance of creating safe, inclusive interview environments, the pressures LGBTQ+ candidates often face during job applications, and the ongoing need for meaningful support in the workplace. They discuss the evolution of diversity and inclusion in veterinary medicine, the role of BVLGBT+ in driving progress, and why representation truly matters.They also reflect on the deeply personal connections people have with animals — and how those moments of trust and care have shaped Dan's purpose and passion over the years.This is a powerful and uplifting listen for Pride Month — and a reminder of how far we’ve come, and how far we still have to go.