Inspiring Veterinary Nurses: Jessica from student to Equine Vet Nurse

Why did you choose AVT?

Because I was living in a rural area at the time, AVT was the only facility based in Perth that could provide flexible training. This allowed me to continue working as a Stud Hand on a Thoroughbred Stud full-time through a busy breeding season as well as study to complete my certificate and be on my way to becoming a Qualified Veterinary Nurse.

What was your favourite part of the vet nurse course?

I thoroughly enjoyed my time completing work experience as this is where I could thrive and learn all about the ins and outs of equine veterinary nursing, hands on. Learning things physically has always been easier for me than learning from a text book.

What is a day working as a vet nurse like for you now?

This is very dependant of my shift. During an early shift I will open the practice, feed and clean the stables of hospital patients. Once stables are complete I assist with hospital treatments then set up for the day’s procedures. These can be anything from gastroscopes, lameness or routine dentals to any emergencies such as lacerations or colic.

On a later shift, I will set up for surgery and for the days procedures like arthroscopes, closed castrations, tiebacks and hernia repairs. I might also be out on the road assisting a veterinarian with our ambulatory consultations.

On an evening shift, I will be assisting with afternoon consultations, afternoon feeds, mucking out stables, cleaning and restocking the hospital and also preparing and assisting with any evening emergencies that may come in.