Veterinary Science Jobs
Veterinary science involves the treatment and care of all types of animal.
In this area of work, you must be able to communicate well with people. You need to be sympathetic and understanding when dealing with the animals’ owners.
People who work in veterinary science must be emotionally strong and not squeamish, as they can be dealing with very sick animals.
Veterinary Surgeon
Veterinary surgeons (vets) diagnose and treat sick and injured animals. Duties include:
- examining and testing animals to diagnose illness
- treating animals, eg, cleaning wounds, giving medicine, surgery
- immunising animals against disease
- ‘putting down’ sick, old or unwanted animals
- advising owners on aspects of animal welfare.
In a town or city general practice, they will spend most of their time treating domestic pets, while vets in rural practices are more likely to treat livestock and horses.
Veterinary Nurse
Veterinary nurses help and support veterinary surgeons in the diagnosis and treatment of animal illness and injury.
Typical duties include:
- developing X-rays
- sterilising instruments
- testing blood and urine samples
- dressing wounds
- feeding, watering and exercising animals.
They might have clerical and receptionist duties, such as booking appointments, and updating records.