The 1966 Veterinary Surgeons Act refers to the art and science of veterinary surgery and medicine. In his 40 years as a member of the profession regulated by that legislation, Dr Chris Little has made contributions to the science in various ways. He has been a small animal and mixed practice vet, a first-opinion practitioner and a referral vet. He was a researcher at two veterinary schools and even dabbled for a while in the veterinary pharmaceutical industry. Now he thinks it is time to brush up his artistic skills.