I often reflect on how my journey in veterinary nursing began back in 2007 — a young girl fresh out of Christchurch, full of heart and determination to care for animals. What I didn’t know then was just how dynamic and fulfilling this career would be, nor how many hats I’d eventually wear along the way.

My first role was as an equine nurse — a dream come true at the time — but it was short-lived when my employer sadly fell ill with cancer. That early experience taught me that change can come swiftly, and resilience is key in this industry. Shortly after, I moved to Ashburton and took on a position at a companion animal clinic. It was here that I really found my feet.

Over time, I worked my way up to head nurse and eventually became the clinic manager. The trust and support I received from my employer during these years were pivotal. She became a mentor to me, encouraging me to grow professionally and personally. Her belief in me laid the foundation for so much of what I’ve achieved since coupled with immense support from an incredible group of colleagues who were all so encouraging and supportive of a very young green nurse!

Craving more knowledge, I embarked on a degree in Environmental Management and Planning at Lincoln University while still working. Balancing both proved challenging, and after a year I made the decision to focus back on my veterinary career. It wasn’t the right time — and that’s okay. That choice led me to roles in large animal practice, where I expanded into operations management. These positions were intense, often juggling staff management, nursing, accounting, inventory, supplier and client relationships, and coordinating seasonal large animal work — all while keeping the day-to-day of a busy clinic humming.

Those years were both exhausting and deeply rewarding. There’s a unique buzz that comes with working in a clinic — the unpredictability, the emergencies, the chaos. You learn to stay calm when the day flips on its head, to adapt on the fly, and to lead under pressure.

Throughout it all, I’ve tried to hold onto what drew me to the industry in the first place: compassion and empathy. It’s easy to become desensitized when you’re in the thick of it every day, but reconnecting with that original “why” is vital — not just for ourselves, but for our clients and the animals we care for.

Today, my focus has shifted slightly as I take some time away from clinical work to be more present with my family. My husband Ben and I are raising our two beautiful daughters, Violet and Scarlet, and running our family dairy farm here in Mid Canterbury. Life is still full-on, just in a different way.

Though I’ve stepped back from the front lines of vet nursing, I’m proud to remain connected to the profession through my role with the NZVNA committee. Being part of this organization allows me to continue supporting our industry, contribute to its future, and stay involved in meaningful ways.

What’s next for me? I’m not entirely sure — and that’s okay. One thing this journey has taught me is the value of adaptability. Whether you’re responding to an emergency in the clinic, shifting gears in your career, or navigating changes in your personal life, the ability to adapt is one of our greatest strengths as veterinary professionals. I know I’ll always be passionate about this field. Whether it’s in the clinic, on the farm, or around the committee table, I believe in the power of veterinary nursing and the people who make it what it is.

To those just starting out or considering their next step — trust your instincts, lean into the chaos, and don’t forget the heart that brought you here in the first place. Adapt, grow, and keep moving.

Written by Lisa McConnell
NZVNA Committee Member