Cares for animals under treatment or in temporary residence at veterinary facilities and assists veterinarians to perform procedures and operations.

Holds animals to allow examination and treatment by veterinarians; cleans and sterilises examination tables and equipment; prepares instruments and hands them to the veterinarian; assists veterinarians to administer anaesthetics and oxygen during operations; places animals in cages for recovery from operations and monitors their condition; gives medications to animals; maintains stock control and records; provides animal care advice, and prepares delivery, and reviews animal care education programs; may perform diagnostic laboratory tests; may act as receptionist, accept payments and undertake clerical work.

• Works indoors usually in clinic but may accompany veterinarian to farms in some situations. May also go outdoors occasionally to collect animals from cages/kennels.
• Usually works in hygienic, adequately heated, ventilated and well lit workspaces.
• Work may be smelly and dirty at times and involve holding or restraining animals while treatment is provided.
• Gloves and other protective equipment will be utilised as necessary.

• Light to heavy physical demand levels. Levels will vary in relation to the type of animal being cared for. Medium to heavy lifting, pulling or carrying is frequently needed to move animals and to carry required equipment or supplies about premises.
• Employees frequently stand and walk about the clinic when working with animals and moving them about clinic areas and holding pens and cages, gathering equipment and meeting owners. Occasionally sits for clerical or record-keeping tasks.
• Stretching and/or twisting movements are occasionally required when lifting and/or restraining animals. Bending and squatting or crouching will be occasional when working with animals.
• Repetitive hand and arm movements may be occasionally required.
• Driving is not a significant feature of the job.
• Employees may use anaesthetic machines, sterilising equipment and x-ray equipment.
• Mental skills necessary include animal-handling, practical, observational, communication and organisational skills.

There are no specific requirements to become a Veterinary Nurse, but most employers prefer people who have a Certificate or Diploma in Veterinary Nursing, or a qualification in animal care (ANZSCO Skill Level 3). There are a number of veterinary nurse training courses, some of which can be done part-time through correspondence. For entry-level positions on-the-job training may be sufficient.

There are opportunities for flexibility of movement but they are limited.