Sue Thornton, who graduated from Durham University with a degree in zoology, worked as a veterinary officer at the London Zoo and the Marine Mammal Centre in California before joining the International Zoo Veterinary Group (IZVG) in May 2000 and becoming a partner in 2003.
The IZVG is the largest full-time freelance zoological veterinary practice in the world, offering vital veterinary services to zoos, aquariums, and wildlife projects across the globe. Its clients receive excellent care, counsel, and direction from a team of well-known and skilled specialists. IZVG’s services are all connected by the fundamentals of animal health, welfare, and husbandry, and backed by the newest tools and methods.
Thornton served as the senior vice president of the British Veterinary Zoological Society (BVZS) from 2007 to 2008 and was a member of the council for more than 10 years. She has also served as a veterinary advisor to the UK HerpTAG and the EAZA Amphibian and Reptile TAG and is a government-appointed zoo inspector assigned by the government. Apart from her diverse experience with many species, Thornton possesses a particular fascination for fish and smaller vertebrates. She also serves as a consulting veterinarian for multiple aquariums.
One nominator said Thornton has been “instrumental in continually developing the welfare standards of animals in zoos and aquariums, particularly across Europe”, calling her “A truly inspirational animal welfare leader.”