A Guide for Work Experience Students
Animed is a very busy veterinary practice which is equipped to treat most species of animal. Your work experience will take place at the main hospital in Shedfield which deals mainly with small domestic animals such as cats, dogs, rodents, birds and exotics. The Equine Unit is adjacent to the main hospital; this is where horses, and occasionally farm animals, have their x-rays and operations. Unfortunately there is only minimal work experience for students in this area due to the dangers involved in working with such large animals. The hospital's insurance policy DOES NOT allow work experience students out on calls with veterinary surgeons - you will work on the hospital premises only.
Your working hours will be 9am until 5pm with a 10 minute coffee break in the morning, and one hour for lunch. You are welcome to stay on the premises during your lunch hour or go out if you wish. Most people bring a packed lunch.
During your placement you will be expected to help the very busy nursing team. Clothes must be smart but casual with flat comfortable shoes, as you will be on your feet all day - please do not wear your best designer clothes.
Your time with us should leave you with a good overall view of the veterinary profession as a whole.
Below is a short list of dos and don'ts.
| DO | DON'T |
| turn up by 9am on your first day and report to reception that you are here | enter the isolation unit |
| expect to be asked to help with sweeping, mopping and cleaning | enter the x-ray room |
| bring your school/college paperwork with you | stick your fingers in at patients |
| expect to spend time helping the nursing staff in the cat ward, dog ward, kitchen and theatres | feed any animals |
| handle any animals as most of our patients are very sick and frail, unless you have been asked to do so |