A Vet Nurse’s Perspective: Caring for Animals and Our Community

By Heather Hellmrich, Veterinary Nurse and Clinic Manager, Aorangi Vets

A Lifelong Love for Animals

I really just have a deep love for animals. I grew up on a lifestyle block on the outskirts of Fairlie, so was able to have a bit of everything and I was always outside with my menagerie. I’ve always had a deep connection with, and wanted to work with animals. I dabbled in human health early on which was great, but when the opportunity came to work for Aorangi Vets and train as a Veterinary Nurse at the same time, it was meant to be. I couldn’t imagine doing anything else. It is my pleasure and privilege, to care for your animals. I see the connections owners have – animals are our treasured companions, and loyal work colleagues.

A Day in the Life of a Vet Nurse

On a typical day I might first check on hospitalised patients, set up for surgery, admit patients, assist the vet with pre-anaesthetic checks, monitor our patients’ anaesthetic during surgical procedures, and monitor their recovery. We often have diagnostic work to assist with; inhouse blood testing and cytology, help take radiographs, conduct nurse consultations such as dental checks and nail trims, assist with vet consultations, dispense medications, give nutritional advice, discharge surgical and hospitalised patients, stock inventory, comfort a beautiful senior patient, cuddle puppies when they come in for their first vaccinations… –  it really is a very busy, varied and rewarding job. Outside of work my kids have flown the nest now, so my furbabies fill that void! 6 dogs, 2 cats, 2 kune kunes, and a flock of dorpers (and a very understanding hubby who loves to build animal shelters).

Celebrating Our Team

This Vet Nurse Awareness Week, I want to celebrate our amazing team of Vet Nurses and Vet Techs at Aorangi Vets. Their skill, compassion, and dedication make such a difference for animals and the people who care for them. Karen is also one of our wonderful Vet Nurses and friendly faces here in Fairlie. Our wider nursing team plan to get together to celebrate VNAW – this will involve our nursing teams from our Fairlie, Geraldine and Highfield clinics and is a chance for us to reflect on the work we do, and to celebrate the passion we all share for caring for animals and our community.