Veterinary Nurse

Veterinary nurses help in the examination, treatment and rehabilitation of sick and injured animals. They also interact with clients and perform receptionist duties.

Pay:

Pay for veterinary nurses varies depending on qualifications, experience and employer.

Job opportunities:

Length of training: No specific training requirements.

About the job

What you will do:

• carry out administrative and receptionist duties at a clinic and give advice to clients over the phone
• feed and exercise animals
• perform duties under the direction of veterinarians, such as taking and developing x-rays, collecting blood samples and testing animals for pregnancy
• clean, sterilise and prepare surgical instruments and other equipment used during operations
• assist during surgical procedures including monitoring the anaesthetic
• perform diagnostic tests and keep records
• clean the cages and surgery areas, and carry out general cleaning duties at a veterinary clinic
• accompany and assist veterinarians on call-outs to locations such as houses and

Skills and knowledge needed:

• animal-handling skills
• knowledge of basic science, including the anatomy and physiology of animals
• knowledge of animal care, hygiene and

How to enter the job

You will need to complete the Diploma in Veterinary Nursing .

 Secondary education: There are no specific secondary education requirements to become a veterinary nurse. However, science subjects, maths and English are useful.

Personal qualities needed:

• able to handle stressful emergency situations
• empathetic, patient and concerned for animals
• good communicators

Veterinary nurses must also be able to deal with the process of putting an animal down (euthanasia), and providing support to clients during this difficult time.

Useful experience:

• any work with animals – for instance as an SPCA volunteer or kennel hand
• voluntary work for a veterinary

Related jobs: Receptionist, Animal Care Attendant, Zookeeper, Dental Assistant, Veterinarian.

Vocational pathways: Services industries, Social and community services, Primary industries.