• Meet the Team - Emma Dever, Senior Nurse
  • Meet the Team - Emma Dever, Senior Nurse
  • Meet the Team - Emma Dever, Senior Nurse

    We are one of the UK’s leading Specialist Orthopaedic, Spinal and Soft Tissue small animal referral centres.

Emma is one of our Senior Nurses here at Kentdale and she kindly took time out to tell us all about life as a veterinary nurse.

How long have you been a Veterinary Nurse and what route did you follow to qualify?
I qualified in 2012 following completion of the Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing at Myerscough College.

What attracted you to a career as a Veterinary Nurse?
I have always loved caring for animals; I was lucky enough to grow up living on a farm and had pets of my own from a young age. At school I enjoyed studying science and I find that this profession combines the two perfectly!

What does your job as a Senior Nurse entail?
At Kentdale, as nurses, we are primarily involved in surgical nursing, however other responsibilities include anaesthesia and assisting with or performing imaging such as radiography, CT and MRI. We have responsibility for preparing and maintaining surgical equipment and preparing patients to have their surgery. We also care for pets in the hospital ensuring they are comfortable and have all their needs catered for - even if this is giving them a cuddle when they need one!

What is the most rewarding thing about being a Veterinary Nurse?
Being involved in the process of helping a patient with a spinal condition to walk again, and return to their normal life.

What kind of attributes do you need to be a good Veterinary Nurse?
I think you need to be hard working, caring, have good attention to detail and have a good sense of humour.

What advice would you give someone thinking about a career as a Veterinary Nurse?
If you truly enjoy the job role, it will not feel like you are going to work.

What are the best things about working at Kentdale?
The people - the team at Kentdale are all fantastic!

What would be your career highlight so far?
Being nominated for (and winning!) an 'Above and Beyond Award'.

Have you completed any additional training to support you in your role?
I am currently studying towards a Higher Education Advanced Diploma in Veterinary Nursing.

What's the next step in your career pathway?
I would like to study towards becoming a Veterinary Technician Specialist in Anaesthesia.

Testimonials
  • There’s never a problem speaking to our lovely receptionists at Kentdale Vets to book an appointment; my little girl would not be with us now without Jan, her surgeon and the brilliant nurses that looked after her.

    Stephen – Nancy’s owner

  • If I could give a higher score, I would! This being our second referral, it has felt like coming home, and to feel that when we arrive with major trauma to our dog is wonderful. Immediately we were in smiley, reassuring, safe arms again, and our crisis rapidly disappeared. The immediate welcome from the reception staff to Kirstie, amazing Joe and even the reassuring and friendly night nursing staff all let us know our precious boy was in very safe hands. Can't speak highly enough - and this is a consistent standard.

    Ani – Floyd’s owner

  • Great communication between myself and the staff was kept updated, and they took great care of my dog! The operation went perfectly, and the scar has healed nicely, considering its place! Gave simple and easy-to-follow after-care steps!

    Kim – Bella’s owner

  • Felt my dog was safe with you, and treatment would be done with his best interests coming first. Follow-up physio with Genie and now Emma were excellent. Friendly staff.

  • I cannot say how amazing Kentdale is; your exceptional service and kindness. Thank you.

    Victoria – Lulu’s owner

  • All the staff go out of their way to be helpful. Nothing is too much trouble, and no question is considered stupid or a waste of time. They treat my dog, Riley, with respect and kindness and me the same. I can’t thank them enough for their help on what has been a rough road for Riley and us.

    Pat – Riley’s owner

  • Excellent doggy care. Nothing too much trouble, and the team all look happy in their jobs. Simon was great with us, and Henry kept us informed and gave clear explanations. Definitely would recommend it.

    Alison – Henry’s owner

  • Full confidence in the skills, equipment and expertise of the whole team. Assured by the staffing levels to respond to unplanned events during procedures and recovery. Across the team, the ability to explain and advise.

    Graham – Winston’s owner

  • The team have been so helpful in looking after Cuin and ourselves after what turned out to be a traumatic experience. We can't thank them enough and would definitely recommend their services.

    Cuin’s Owners

  • Expertise, kindness, empathy, time spent explaining incredibly difficult situations. Efficiency.

    Pet Owner

  • I really felt like me and my dog Mollie were being looked after as soon as we walked through the door. Friendly faces on reception and Jan the consultant was very thorough, friendly and I felt Mollie was in very good hands.

    C. Waterhouse, Pet Owner

  • Very nice waiting area where thought has been given to the layout for having multiple pets in at the same time. Friendly and welcoming staff. Very thorough and professional vets.

    Pet Owner

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