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To retrain as a vet nurse in my 40s?

76 replies

InterloperMum · 30/12/2025 09:23

I recently re-trained as a healthcare professional (occupational therapist) and have realised it is not for me due to the lack of role clarity / definition. Currently work in NHS.

I'm thinking of re-training again. I have always loved animals. I wanted to be a vet when I was younger but knew I wouldn't be able to meet the academic requirements.

I'm a very practical person, not squemish, don't mind cleaning, good with customers and physically fit.

I have two children at school, am London based.

Has anyone ever re-trained as a vet nurse? Do you work as a vet nurse? Would you recommend it? What are the downsides? I realise the pay is not great.

How might I go about it? I would need to earn whilst training.

Any advice would be gratefully received. Thank you.

OP posts:
BottomsByTheirTops · 30/12/2025 09:50

I’m a vet - try the RCVS website for info on training options now: there are several routes, including a degree, but iirc you can’t earn much, if anything, on the day release type training.
It’s not a living wage imo but obviously that depends on your circumstances.
I work with a woman who retrained as a mature person after leaving another profession - I can ask her for insight.
My observation would be that RVN’s feel a lot of the same pressures as vets do but with a reduced sense of control eg surrounding ethics and welfare.
I have great respect for RVN’s - I don’t know how they do it!

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