Veterinary nurse

Career path and progression

With experience, you could:

• work as a supervisor or mentor new staff
• manage a practice
• move to a larger veterinary hospital
• lecture in veterinary nursing science

You might also move into zoo or wildlife park work or sales of veterinary supplies.

What it takes

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

• customer service skills
• knowledge of animal health
• the ability to work well with others
• knowledge of biology
• the ability to work well with your hands
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• excellent verbal communication skills
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Restrictions and Requirements

You'll need to:

• pass enhanced background checks

Related subjects

Most relevant

• Biology - Veterinary nurses need a thorough understanding of animal anatomy, physiology, and health to assist vets during procedures and care for sick animals. They monitor vital signs, understand how diseases affect different body systems, and need to know how medications work in the body.
• Chemistry - Veterinary nurses handle medications, anaesthetics, and disinfectants on a daily basis, so understanding chemical properties and how substances interact is important. They also need to know about safe handling and storage of drugs and cleaning agents used in veterinary practice.
• Mathematics - Veterinary nurses calculate drug dosages based on an animal's weight, measure fluid rates for drips, and work out correct quantities of anaesthetic. Getting these calculations right is critical to patient safety, especially with very small or very large animals.

Also relevant

• Physics - Veterinary nurses take X-rays and use other diagnostic imaging equipment as part of their daily work. Understanding how radiation works and the principles behind imaging technology helps them produce clear results and follow safety procedures.
• English Language - Veterinary nurses explain treatment plans and aftercare instructions to pet owners in a way that is clear and reassuring. They also keep detailed patient records and communicate important information to vets and other members of the practice team.
• Psychology - Veterinary nurses regularly support pet owners who are anxious or distressed, including during end-of-life care. Understanding how people respond to stress and grief helps them communicate sensitively and provide emotional support in difficult situations.
• Design and Technology - Veterinary nurses work with a range of surgical instruments, diagnostic equipment, and practical tools that they need to set up, maintain, and use skilfully. Being confident working with your hands and understanding how equipment functions is a key part of the role.
• Business - Veterinary nurses often handle reception duties, manage appointments, and deal with billing and stock ordering within a practice. Those who progress to practice management roles need to understand budgets, staffing, and how a small business operates day to day.