Staff Profile: Jocelyn Ong – Veterinary Nurse Trainee

1) What first inspired you to train in the field of veterinary nursing?

Since I was a kid, I always wanted to work with animals when I grew up – being a zookeeper was my dream! Definitely David Attenborough documentaries made a huge impact in my childhood. During school and university, I realised I wanted to do more through veterinary work to help animals.

2) What areas of veterinary nursing do you most enjoy?

I really enjoy the practical aspect of helping pets feel happier and healthier, but also seeing their
owners have peace of mind that their pets are safe makes it all worth it! I can’t wait to learn even more in the world of veterinary science and become better at caring for animals.

3) What previous study have you undertaken and how has this helped you in your current role?

I completed my Bachelor of Medical Science in 2020, and as I started to delve into veterinary nursing studies after initially spending 12 months in a Customer Care role at the vet. It is quite surprising how similar the way our body works is to dogs and cats! Even some of the medications given to animals work in a similar way to the drugs used in humans. Having a solid foundation in body systems definitely helps me understand how things work in animals more easily than if I had to start from scratch.

4) Why do you like working at Turramurra Veterinary Hospital?

We have such a passionate and driven team here at Turramurra Vet who strive to give the best care to each of our patients, as well as their owners! I always feel supported and encouraged each and every day as I come into work, which I am so grateful for as a newbie vet nurse. Working with a bunch of like-minded people when it comes to animal welfare is so much fun and makes the hard work all the more fulfilling. I hope that as I learn more about veterinary nursing, I will be able to help support our team as much as they have supported me!