As a veterinary nurse you would support veterinary surgeons (vets) by providing nursing care for sick and injured animals.

Your nursing duties would include:
· holding animals and keeping them calm during treatment
· giving injections and drugs (under direction of the vet)
· collecting blood, urine and other samples and carrying out in-house lab work
· sterilising instruments
· taking x-rays
· preparing animals for operations
· assisting during operations by handing instruments and maintaining levels of anaesthetic
· Carrying out minor procedures such as suture removal.

Key Skills
· concern for animals without being too sentimental
· a tactful and sympathetic approach with upset or nervous owners
· calmness and confidence when handling animals
· an interest in science, particularly biology
· willingness to carry out messy or unpleasant tasks
· the ability to communicate well with owners and colleagues
· Administrative and keyboard skills.