CELEBRATIONS Veterinary nurse marks 15 years at dogs charity

A DEDICATED veterinary nurse is celebrating 15 years of service at a dogs home in Bridgend.

Steph Hodgson trained at a veterinary practice on the Isle of Wight.

In 2003, she jumped at the chance to work in a pet rescue environment and applied for a job as a veterinary nurse at Dogs Trust Bridgend.

Steph moved to South Wales and has been in her position ever since.

“I absolutely love working for Dogs Trust Bridgend and having the chance to do what I love for the dogs of all shapes and sizes,” Steph said.

“I really enjoy spending time with dogs that may have had a rocky start in life and successfully gaining their trust so that they are healthy and happy before they go to their new homes.

“I get so much satisfaction from seeing dogs improve during their time with us.”

A typical day for Steph involves assisting with neutering and minor necessary operations, administering flea and worming treatments, ensuring dogs are in tip top condition before they head to their new homes.

In her time at Dogs Trust Bridgend, she has seen more than 8,000 homeless hounds come into the centre.

While she doesn’t make a habit of bringing her work home with her, as a dog lover the temptation became too much and during her time she has rehomed a 12-week-old lurcher called Shelby, who sadly passed away at the age of 14, and an orphaned chihuahua pup called Chilli whom she hand reared from birth.

Steph said: “Chilli was one of a litter of four puppies who I hand reared at home.

“I fed them every two hours until they were strong enough to be weaned and did this until they were eight weeks old and ready to go off to their new homes.

“I see dogs of all shapes and sizes every single day and normally go for bigger dogs so I never thought I’d end up with a tiny breed like Chilli, but I fell in love with her sweet nature and cheeky character – she was special and has made our family complete.”