Animals body fluid! Was there ever a day I was not covered in it?
Admin Team
Vet nursing really isn't for the faint hearted. You have to be a special kind of person. Danni however, is that special kind of person. She would like to instill one piece of advice on her younger self! "ALWAYS KEEP YOUR MOUTH CLOSED!".
I started with Yass Valley Veterinary back in 2014 as a shy and quiet vet nursing student with little experience in the industry. It was quite intimidating walking into the clinic for the first time surrounded by so many skilled staff members. I remember the two most experienced nurses, Heidi and Anita rushing around assisting the vets with an emergency snake bite and thinking to myself how incredible they were and how much I wanted to be like them.
Growing up with multiple animals in our house hold somewhat prepared me for the job I had just walked in to. But if I had one piece of advice to give anyone wanting to become a veterinary nurse, that would be ‘it’s not all puppies and kittens’.
The hardest part of nursing is without a doubt euthanising a loved family member. I always get asked “ do you get used to it?” or “do you get sad?” and honestly, you never really get used to it. You just develop different coping mechanisms. Generally, when euthanising animals, they are very old and sick so euthanasia is the kindest thing for them. However once the animal is no longer suffering it becomes the owner who suffers and that there, is part the gets to me.
On a lighter note, I can’t recall one day that I was not covered in some sort of animal bodily fluid. There are many aspects of nursing that require you to have quite a strong stomach. Some of the regular occurrences include being urinated on by a nervous puppy or getting projectile anal gland fluid to the face. On farm visits you get covered in cow faeces or sneezed on by a horse with a nosebleed and let me tell you that nothing spreads blood quite like a happy dog with an open tail wound. On the very rare occasion you are not covered in it, someone else is! That is when you also need thick skin and a good sense of humour. Because 9 times out of 10, a work colleague will have seen the incident and they will not refrain from laughing. If I could go back and tell my younger self one piece of advice it would be to “ALWAYS KEEP YOUR MOUTH CLOSED”.
Although this all sounds very off putting and you would question anyone who would willingly put themselves through this, I have to say I absolutely love my job. The good days generally out weigh the bad. Your day can be instantly made by a litter of 6 week old puppies to cuddle (vaccinate and microchip of course), or if the vet is booked in to go out pregnancy testing cattle and needs an assistant to help in the yards. You are constantly growing and learning every day which is exactly why I stuck to it and am now training and teaching younger nurses as the nurse supervisor.
Furthermore, I would not be able to do this job if not for the people I work with. We all have the same love and compassion for our animals and our jobs. You know that you work in a great environment when you want to spend time with your colleges on the weekend after being with them for a 10-hour shift. The team at Yass Valley Veterinary are practically a family, and they have been a massive contributor to the person I am today.
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Welcoming a new furry family member is an exciting time for the whole family. Whether it’s a playful puppy, a curious kitten, or another small companion, January is the perfect time to focus on establishing routines and ensuring your pet’s health and happiness. If you’re a new pet owner, these tips will help you create a loving and safe environment for your newest family member. Schedule a Veterinary Check-Up Even if your new pet has received vaccinations, a full veterinary check-up is essential. Our team can: · Confirm vaccinations and schedule future ones · Conduct health screenings for common conditions · Provide advice on diet, exercise, and preventive care Booking a vet visit early ensures your pet starts the year healthy and prevents potential health issues down the line. Create a Safe and Comfortable Space New pets need time to adjust to their new home. Set up a quiet, cozy area where your pet can feel safe. Include: · A soft bed or crate · Toys and chew items · Food and water bowls in an accessible location This dedicated space helps your pet settle in and reduces anxiety during the first few weeks. Establish a Consistent Routine Pets thrive on routine. Try to: · Feed at the same times each day · Schedule regular walks or play sessions · Set consistent potty-training schedules for puppies or kittens A consistent routine helps your pet feel secure and promotes good behaviour. Invest in Proper Nutrition High-quality, species-appropriate food is vital for your pet’s growth and wellbeing. Consult your vet about: · The right type of food for age, breed, and size · Portion sizes and feeding frequency · Supplements or special dietary needs, if necessary Proper nutrition sets the foundation for a long and healthy life. Socialise and Train Early Early socialisation is key to raising a well-adjusted pet. Introduce your pet gradually to: · Other people and pets · Different environments, sounds, and experiences Training, even basic commands, should start early. Positive reinforcement techniques work best for teaching good habits. Grooming and Hygiene Regular grooming keeps your pet comfortable and healthy. Depending on your pet, you may need to: · Brush their coat regularly · Trim nails and clean ears · Bathe when necessary Our friendly team can advise on a grooming routine suited to your pet’s breed and needs. Monitor Health and Behaviour New pets may hide signs of stress or illness. Keep an eye out for: · Changes in appetite or water intake · Lethargy or unusual behaviour · Signs of discomfort or pain Early detection of health issues allows for prompt treatment and prevents complications. Enjoy this exciting time! Welcoming a new pet into your home is an exciting and joyful experience. By scheduling veterinary visits, establishing routines, providing proper nutrition, and offering love and attention, you’ll set your new pet up for a healthy, happy life. Remember, every pet is unique, so consulting your veterinarian regularly ensures your furry friend thrives in the year ahead. If you’ve recently welcomed a new pet into your home, book a check-up with our veterinary team today! We’re here to provide expert advice, vaccinations, and care to help your furry family member start the year off right.
