Veterinary Nurse
Primary Purpose
Provide medical oversight and well-being strategies for all dogs in the care of the Dogs’ Refuge Home (DRH). Collaborate closely with Veterinary Practitioners, the General Manager, Welfare and Training Manager and DRH staff to ensure the highest standards of veterinary care, surgical support, and animal welfare.
Key functions include clinical support, surgical nursing, health monitoring, and coordination of veterinary treatments and procedures for all dogs in DRH care.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Animal Health & Welfare
Monitor, report, and manage the health and well-being of all DRH dogs in accordance with DRH policies and welfare standards- Perform daily health checks, triage new arrivals, and administer medications (oral, injectable, and topical) asprescribed
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date medical records, treatment notes, and medication logs in ShelterBuddy
Surgical Nursing
- Prepare and assist for general and specialised surgical procedures, including sterilisation, wound repair, and diagnostic procedures
- Monitor anaesthesia and recovery phases, ensuring patient safety and effective pain management
- Collect and process blood samples for diagnostic testing and support in running in-house pathology as directed
- Prepare surgical instruments, ensure aseptic technique, and maintain a clean and sterile operating environment
- Provide pre- and post-operative nursing care, including patient admission/discharge, surgical preparation, and post-GA monitoring
- Manage surgical stock control, ordering consumables as required with approval from the GM
Clinic Operations
- Coordinate vet appointments, specialist referrals, and sterilisation follow-ups as required
- Communicate veterinary treatment plans and outcomes clearly to all relevant DRH departments, foster carers, and adopters
- Provide dietary advice and implement special feeding plans as prescribed by veterinarians
- Ensure compliance with all DRH clinic, quarantine, and OHS policies and procedures
- Maintain the cleanliness and organisation of the clinic, surgery, andpreparation areas
Collaboration & Communication
- Work closely with the GM, Animal Care Team, and Foster Care Coordinator to ensure the health and well-being of all dogs in care
- Liaise with external veterinary providers and communicate relevant updates to the GM and management team
- Contribute to staff and volunteer training regarding animal handling, infection control, and post-operative care
Qualification and Experience:
- Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing (or equivalent qualification)
- Previous experience in a veterinary clinic or animal welfare organisation
- Proven surgical nursing experience, including anaesthetic monitoring and blood collection
- Strong understanding of animal welfare principles and a genuine passion for dogs and their well-being
Skills, Knowledge & Ability:
- Excellent animal handling and restraint skills across all breeds and temperaments
- Competence in anaesthetic monitoring, surgical assistance, and post-operative patient care
- Strong observational and assessment skills, with the ability to identify signs of pain, stress, or illness
- Effective communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment
- Ability to work autonomously, manage time effectively, and remain calm under pressure
- Computer proficiency, including ShelterBuddy or equivalent software
- Driver’s license
Benefits and perks
- Work with dogs everyday!
- Onsite car parking