Zoo helping to train new vet nurses
TWYCROSS has launched the first formal UK vet nurse student placement programme in a zoo.
A zoo spokesman said Twycross is one of the few major zoos with a full time on-site veterinary team.
It has joined worked with Nottingham Trent University for several years, on research projects such as animal behaviour, human-animal interactions, animal health and nutrition.
This will now be extended to include the university’s vet nurse students.
On their placements students can expect to cover everything from assisting in animal procedures and dispensing medications to monitoring animals on long-term medication.
Final year student Katie Ginn completed the programme earlier this year.
She said: “I thoroughly enjoyed the programme at Twycross Zoo.
“The team was extremely welcoming, patient and helpful. I’ve come away with all my questions answered about the role of a veterinary nurse in a zoo.
“Seeing a different approach to nursing in comparison to small animal practices was interesting, with many similarities but also big differences.
“While only having previous experience working with domestic pets, an insight to exotic nursing and how the veterinary team work to complete various procedures was extremely interest-
TWYCROSS’ SCHEME FIRST OF ITS KIND IN COUNTRY
ing to learn.
“Not only have I developed my skills and knowledge of veterinary nursing, I’ve also learned more about the essential role of zoos in global conservation.”
Twycross hopes to host up to 12 placements next year.
Veterinary services manager Dr Matyas Liptovszky, said: “With over a decade-long involvement in veterinary teaching, Twycross has become one of the most significant teaching zoos in this field across the UK and Europe.
“This is a very exciting development in the training of UK vet nurse students.
“Zoo and exotic pet medicine is an important and expanding area and we are offering a fantastic opportunity to train at one of the best zoos in the country. Here, students will get exposed to working with a vast range of animals of all sizes.
“Students can look forward to a varied workload whilst learning exactly what is involved in the day-to-day running of the department.
“We are committed to providing training and further education to the next generation of zoo veterinarians and vet nurses.”