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.

• 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.

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