Veterinary nursing awareness month
When I was a vet student, the veterinary nurses were mythical dragons. There were very few of them. They dressed in dark green and swooped in to rescue patients when we students were making a mess of things.
They rarely spoke and when they did, it was invariably to make scathing comment on my rudimentary skills. We learned that when they issued commands, we students should obey. The same is true today, of course.
Any competent vet knows to listen to their nurse, as their connection to the patient can often be closer and even more empathetic than our own.
This month of May is Veterinary Nursing Awareness Month.
I have helped to train more veterinary nurses (VNs) than I can count. And I have employed many too.
I enjoy the process of supporting them through three or more years of training.
They generally progress from the first tentative uncertain steps to confident professionals in a most satisfying manner.
Just last week my VNs were coping with a five-day-old puppy rejected by its dam.
There was an emergency anaesthetic for a dog with a twisted stomach.
They were celebrating the first steps on a weight loss project for two dogs.
They helped to manage a giant breed dog who would not allow even its owner to stroke it.
They were cleaning foul teeth with ultrasound and taking the dental xrays so that I could see which ones needed extraction. And X-raying a cat with a suspected fracture.
Not to mention the gentle nursing care of all patients, and endless cleaning.
Their abilities are still legend, and I still obey when they make suggestions.
This is your last chance to book a place on our first aid course for pet owners. It’s being held on Monday, June 6 at 6.30pm at The Yews Community Centre.
Places are limited, so pre-booking is essential by Monday, May 30.
I will take 90 minutes of your time and provide you with the skills you will need to support your pet in an emergency situation, including CPR. It costs just £24 and hasalready saved lives. To find out more themewesvets.co.uk/events