Veterinary Nurse Liane – Lockdown, Favourite Patients, and Pet Advice!

What has been your experience of working during the past year?

The past year of working through a pandemic, has probably been the most challenging time in my nursing career. It’s been a rollercoaster of highs and lows – but I’m so glad I have been able to continue to work and provide our essential services. Luckily our patients (and their owners!) have been extremely patient and understanding with us. This has allowed the team to spend the time needed with their pets so they get the care they deserve. I can’t wait for life to get back to normal but I will never forget the experience. It has certainly put my nursing skills to the test in these challenging times –  but there’s no clinic, and no team, I’d rather be working with.

What is is like working as a nurse for The Irish Blue Cross?

Working as a veterinary nurse at the Irish Blue Cross is an incredibly fun, challenging, and busy job. We are fortunate enough to have a top class clinic where we can offer an excellent standard of care to each and every patient that steps their paw through our door. Here they meet the most amazing team of vets, nurses, and reception staff. I am so proud to say that every member of staff does their utmost to ensure they look after each individual patient as if they were our own. Being part of this team allows me to push myself to provide the highest standard of nursing care to all of our patients.

Have you any favourite patients or cases?

One of the best parts of my job is getting to meet the thousands of patients we treat each year. Whether it’s a simple weight check, nail trim, a long-term condition check-up, or an emergency surgery, every one of them has a personality – and it’s these personalities that have helped me through the year so far. It’s amazing what a wagging tail or a nudge from a persistent pup wanting pets can do to cheer up a veterinary nurse at the end of a long week! I couldn’t possibly name a favourite but there’s definitely a few I have in mind who get away with anything when they’re in to visit me ?!

Any good general Pet advice?

It’s important for pet owners to remember that veterinary care is still available to their pets during this time. If you have a concern about your pet it’s better to seek veterinary attention sooner rather than later as it’s often easier to treat a problem when it’s new. Similarly if your pet is on medication for a long-term condition ensure you attend regular monitoring check-ups as directed by your vet so your pets condition is managed as best as it can.

I’d also like to remind pet owners to make the most of having a registered veterinary nurse at their clinic. Registered veterinary nurses are trained and qualified in a wide range of areas and can advise you on looking after your pet, whatever it’s needs. Many veterinary nurses have a special area of interest and even extra qualifications in certain areas, for example dental health, surgical and post-operative care, or various medical conditions, and will be more than happy to assist you in ensuring your pet’s care continues from their vet visit to their home life. Ask us a question and we’ll find the answer ?