ABOUT THE ROLE
Working alongside the veterinary surgeon to help provide a high standard of care for the animals, veterinary nurses carry out important assistance and routine procedures on a daily basis. The majority of veterinary nurses work within a veterinary surgery or hospital and undertake minor surgical procedures, diagnostic tests and medical treatments under the supervision of the veterinary surgeon.
Typical work activities include:
- Holding and calming the animals while the vet examines them
- Preparing animals for surgery and assisting in surgery under veterinary supervision
- Collecting samples and conducting diagnostic tests and medical treatment under veterinary supervision
- Administer treatments, for example, injections, medication, fluid therapy, dressing, first aid, euthanasia/lethal room management
- Caring for in-patient animals
EMPLOYABILITY
Like veterinary surgeons, veterinary nurses should be transparently passionate about the health and wellbeing of animals, want to do something positive and have a good understanding of current animal issues. Other key skills and abilities include:
- Good written and oral communication skills, especially empathetic and understanding with clients anxious about their pets or animals
- Ability to work well under pressure, confident & competent decision making skills
- Ability to make sound clinical decisions
- Ability to work independently, self motivated to work without constant supervision
- Ability to work a variety of hours and shifts
CAREER ENTRY
It is not possible to train as a veterinary nurse without being employed by a veterinary practice in some form or other with training usually lasting a minimum of 2 years. Historically, the usual entry qualification to commence training at aged 16 was 5 GCSEs at Grade C or above or the British Veterinary Nursing Association (BVNA) Nursing Assistant qualification.
However, it is now possible to undergo both work-based training from the age of 17 in conjunction with an RCVS approved practice or through proper higher education. Several colleges and universities now offer an RCVS-approved veterinary nursing degree or BTEC HND course. These will include secondments to registered vets and academic study.
EMPLOYERS AND SALARIES
Most veterinary nurses will be employed in private practices with a minority percentage working with organisations such as veterinary schools, RSPCA, PDSA, animal sanctuaries and larger kennels or catteries. Indicative salaries are:
| Veterinary nurse starting salary | £10,000 |
| Staff Nurse | £20,000 |
| Clinic Manager | £30,000 |
According to myjobsearch.com, the average salary is about £15,000, although this will vary between individual practices, area and type of work.
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