How to become a veterinary nurse
Support veterinarians to perform inspections, procedures and operations for the treatment of animals.
Pathways to this career
- Complete a course in animal studies to gain a theoretical foundation and look into practical training. Volunteers and interns are often accepted as animal shelters, animal parks and local vets.
- Follow it up with a further studies in veterinary nursing to gain your qualification as a nurse veterinarian.
- Specialise your practice and advance your knowledge by studying undergraduate vet studies. Focus on general practice or emergency care.
What does a veterinary nurse do?
Veterinary nurses support veterinarians to perform inspections, procedures and operations for the treatment of animals. They typically meet with clients and their animals prior to the veterinarian to evaluate the concern or injury of the animal.Duties and tasks
- Advise animal owners on detailed proper care of animals, vaccines recommended and refer them to animal care supplies and facilities.
- Assist in administering medications, lab tests, anaesthetics and oxygen to animals.
- Disinfect examination rooms, instruments and equipment and prepare required tools for procedures.
- Maintain and hold animals while veterinarians examine and perform procedures.
- Maintain stock levels and request additional supplies when needed.
- Provide intake and keep records of owners and their animals, listening and determining the nature of concern or problem with animals and providing information to veterinarians.
- Transfer animals to recovery areas after operations or procedures and monitor their wellbeing.
Industry bodies
Related jobs
- Animal nurse
- Life scientist
- Veterinarian
- Veterinary assistant
Discover related courses
Undergraduate RMI-SCB301
Related degrees
Undergraduate MAQ-BIOX2350
Related degrees
Undergraduate LTU-AGR1AAS
Undergraduate MAQ-BIOX3510
Related degrees
Step up your career with these resources
10 fascinating uni subjects that are open to everyone in 2025
Want to understand the psychology behind Trumpism? Push for better climate action? Or improve your cultural sensitivity in healthcare? These online subjects—and more!—are now accepting 2025 enrolments.
5 small business courses for self-starters
Whether you’re a small business owner or plotting away at a side hustle, there are many online business courses to choose from to help you get in touch with your entrepreneurial side and launch your ideas off the ground.
How to negotiate a higher salary
Not sure what to say when negotiating your salary? Follow these tips from career strategist Kelly Magowan next time you need to make your case with an employer.
Is a career in project management right for you?
Do you get a kick out of thinking big and getting things done? You could make a great project manager.
Together, we've got this
Your dedicated advisor will help you enrol, plan your studies and find confidence in the knowledge that you belong at university. They’ve helped thousands before you. Now it’s your turn.