Veterinary Nurse
SOC 29-2056.00 · ESCO 3240 · OSCA 341231
Role snapshot
Overview
A Veterinary Nurse plays a critical role in animal healthcare, supporting veterinarians in all aspects of patient care. This includes assisting during consultations, surgeries, and emergency procedures by preparing instruments, restraining animals, administering medications, and monitoring patients under anaesthesia. They also provide essential post-operative care and educate pet owners on animal health, nutrition, and medication protocols, ensuring comprehensive support for animal well-being.
Significantly contributes to animal health and welfare by providing skilled medical support, assisting in complex procedures, and educating pet owners, leading to better patient outcomes and responsible pet ownership.
On the job
- Assist veterinarians during surgical procedures, including preparing the operating room and monitoring anaesthesia
- Administer medications, vaccines, and treatments as prescribed by a veterinarian
- Perform diagnostic imaging (X-rays) and laboratory tests (blood, urine analysis)
- Provide post-operative care, wound management, and pain management to recovering animals
- Educate pet owners on animal health, nutrition, preventive care, and medication administration
Tools & technology
Average salary
Job outlook
GrowingJob growth is expected to be above average over the next five years.
Education & training
Typically requires a diploma or associate's degree in veterinary technology or nursing, often followed by certification or licensure.
Career pathways
WHERE YOU COULD GO
CURRENT ROLE
Veterinary Nurse
Nursing & Midwifery
ADJACENT MOVES
STARTING POINTS
Who thrives here
Interest profile
realistic · RIC
Individuals who thrive in hands-on, practical environments, enjoy investigating medical conditions, and appreciate structured procedures and protocols often find satisfaction as a Veterinary Nurse.
Personality characteristics
Conscientious
Meticulous in following medical protocols, administering treatments, and maintaining sterile environments for animal patients.
Agreeable
Demonstrates empathy towards distressed animals and their owners, and works cooperatively as part of a veterinary team.
Investigative
Enjoys understanding animal physiology, medical conditions, and the science behind diagnostic and treatment procedures.
Practical
Comfortable with hands-on tasks, physical animal handling, and operating medical equipment in a fast-paced environment.
Resilient
Manages the emotional demands of caring for sick or injured animals and handles high-pressure emergency situations calmly.
Best for
- Individuals passionate about animal welfare and dedicated to providing high-quality medical care
- Those who enjoy a fast-paced, hands-on clinical environment with a mix of technical and interpersonal tasks
Watch out for
- The work can be emotionally demanding due to animal suffering and client distress
- Occasional weekend work and emergency shifts may be required, impacting work-life balance
A week in the life
A representative working week for a Veterinary Nurse — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.
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