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Veterinary Nurse Struck Off After Misusing Animal Painkillers

Dayna Johnson was removed from the professional register following a year-long pattern of drug theft and misuse that endangered animal welfare and violated ethical standards.

The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons said Johnson had breached the most fundamental tenets of the profession

Overview

  • Dayna Johnson, a veterinary nurse from Bristol, was found guilty of sustained misconduct and struck off the professional register by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons in March 2025.
  • Her misconduct included injecting herself with controlled drugs meant for animals, such as methadone, gabapentin, and buprenorphine, at four veterinary practices over the course of a year.
  • A 2023 incident at Yatton Vets revealed she fell asleep on a spaniel during surgery after using drugs intended for the animal, prompting concerns about patient safety and workplace trust.
  • Johnson admitted to a history of opiate dependency, which she had previously concealed, and was required to attend a drug awareness course after a police caution in May 2023.
  • The disciplinary committee emphasized that her actions breached fundamental professional tenets, including animal welfare, responsible drug use, and honesty, leading to her removal from the register.