What does a veterinary nurse do?
Veterinary nurses are multitalented individuals who can be called upon to assist in all manner of procedures within a veterinary practice. Some of the most common duties carried out by veterinary nurses include: administering medications to animals under the supervision of a vet, keeping relevant medical records up-to-date, maintaining stock levels of medical supplies, sterilising and maintaining equipment and providing aid during consultations. If you’re a person who enjoys the challenges of multitasking and you’re passionate about caring for animals, then a career in veterinary nursing may be for you.
Tasks:
- Provide various forms of assistance to veterinarians
- Maintain, sterilise and keep inventory of medical equipment and supplies
- Administer medication under the supervision of a veterinarian
- Fulfil reception and administrative duties
What skills do I need to be a veterinary nurse?
Becoming a veterinary nurse requires constant contact with animals so first and foremost, a deep love of working and caring for animals is a must. Being able to communicate effectively is also a plus, as working as a veterinary nurse requires you to communicate with vets and pet owners in highly stressful situations. If you’re able to keep your cool whilst juggling different tasks then this job may be for you.
- Must have a love of animals
- Have an intuitive knowledge of an animal’s needs
- Be able to multitask
- Communicate well with both colleagues and clients
- Keep a cool head in stressful situations
Specialisations
Becoming a veterinary nurse opens a lot of doors for your future career pathways. You can learn industry specific skills that with extra experience or qualifications will see you eligible to work in a number of other roles within the animal care industry. Vet nurses can pursue a number of different specialisations, and can work in a wide variety of contexts.
Animal trainer
Veterinarian
Zookeeper
Study pathways for veterinary nurses
Getting the right qualifications, traineeships or on the job experience will be the head start you need to begin working in the animal care industry.
Getting Started
There are courses available to equip you with the qualifications you need to start working in the industry.
Skill Building
Your education will help you develop industry specific skills.
Professional Development
Combine your qualifications with workplace experience to hone your abilities.
Industry Recognition
At the completion of your study and work experience you can apply for membership with the Veterinary Nurses Council of Australia to improve your networking opportunities.
Getting a job after graduation
Put your training to good use and get the best professional head start in your animal care career. Take a look at our sample resume and cover letter and put your best foot forward when you apply for veterinary nursing jobs.