What is a Veterinary Nurse?

Registered Veterinary Nurses (RVNs) work alongside Veterinary Surgeons to help create a high standard of care for your pets. Under a Veterinary Surgeons direction, Veterinary nurses care for your pets whilst they are admitted to the practice. This can either be preparing them for a surgical procedure, making sure your pet is calm prior to an induction of anaesthesia or making sure that during an anaesthetic they are kept warm, pain free and most importantly asleep. Veterinary Nurses also play a very important role with sick patients - it is generally the Veterinary Nurse who will make sure they are comfortable, provided with prescribed medications and specially calculated nutrition for their illness, again all this is done under the direction of the Veterinary Surgeon. Veterinary Nurses are also able to assist with diagnostic tests and are able to perform minor surgery as long as they do not enter a body cavity.

In order for a nurse to call themselves an RVN they must undergo 3 years of college training and undertake an examination governed by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS), which covers both the theory and practical aspects of nursing. They will then be allowed to wear with pride the VN badge to say they have gained the qualification. Once qualified RVNs are expected to take part in continual professional development to ensure they are up to date on the latest techniques, and are expected to be liable for their own actions.

So if you are worried about your Kitty’s smelly breath or Fido seems to have put on a few pounds after all the Christmas treats then why not speak to one of our Veterinary Nurses. Nurses are an invaluable part of the team and may be able to provide you with support to help care for your pet. Look at a few of our PetCase Studies »» which our Nurses have helped. Please note our nurses are not diagnosticians, if your pet is ill they will need to see a vet. If the nurse is at all concerned with regards to your pet they will need to refer them to a Veterinary Surgeon.

Clinic Services FREE of charge

• Weight Watcher clinics, have your pet weighed and dietary given on a regular basis.
• After your pet has had any dental work at the practice we will offer you ongoing checks.
• New kitten and puppy checks and advice.
• Advice on preventative treatments such as worming and flea treatment.
• Which product(s) would best suit your pet?
• How often should they be given?

For a small charge the nurses also offer services such as nail clipping and microchipping.