In veterinary workplaces, there is often a noticeable difference in how veterinarians and veterinary nurses are recognised and treated, both my their colleagues, and by the public. Vets commonly have their qualifications proudly displayed on the walls of the clinic, while veterinary nurses' hard-earned qualifications frequently go unnoticed. Business cards with "Dr." titles are printed and distributed for veterinarians, yet veterinary nurses rarely see the same opportunity for representation. 

These differences might seem small, but they add up to a larger issue: the undervaluing of veterinary nurses' contributions to the profession. Veterinary nurses are essential to the functioning of any veterinary practice. They are the ones monitoring patients during surgery, offering compassionate care to clients, and handling many technical tasks that keep veterinary clinics running smoothly. And yet, the disparity in how these two roles are recognised suggests an outdated hierarchy that doesn't reflect the reality of modern veterinary care.

Why Respect Matters

Professional respect isn't just about titles, qualifications, or business cards—it's about valuing each member of the veterinary team for their unique contributions. When veterinary nurses are treated as "just a vet nurse," it impacts morale, job satisfaction, and the overall culture of the workplace.

Consider this: How often are veterinary nurses asked for their insights during team meetings or case discussions? Are they given opportunities to attend professional development courses, or are these opportunities more likely to be provided to veterinarians? Are veterinary nurses routinely acknowledged for their expertise, or is their work taken for granted?

These questions matter because respect drives empowerment. When vet nurses are given the recognition they deserve, they feel more confident advocating for patients, contributing to discussions, and pushing for improvements in practice standards.

Are Vet Nurses Worth the Time?

Another glaring disparity in recognition lies in how veterinary team members are presented to the public. A quick survey of veterinary clinic websites in New Zealand showed you'll likely find a detailed section listing the veterinarians: their qualifications, areas of expertise, and even personal interests. But there is still a gap in the number of practices that do the same for their veterinary nurses. 

The absence of veterinary nurses from practice websites sends a subtle but significant message: Are their contributions not considered valuable enough to share? Are they not worth the time and effort it takes to include them? This oversight diminishes the critical role veterinary nurses play in patient care and undermines their professional standing.

Including veterinary nurses on the practice website, including their qualification on the wall, giving them a business card; it's more than just a courtesy—it's an acknowledgment of their expertise and a way to showcase the full strength of the veterinary team. Clients should know who will be caring for their pets beyond the consulting veterinarian. When clients see a united team of highly skilled individuals, it builds trust and respect for the practice as a whole.

As a veterinary nurse, if your name isn't listed on your clinic's website, ask why. If you veterinarians have their qualifications on the wall, but yours isn't, ask why. If your veterinarians have a business card but you don't, ask why. 

Advocating for Change

So, how can veterinary nurses begin to shift the narrative and stand up for themselves?

1. Ask for Recognition: If your clinic doesn't offer business cards for veterinary nurses, suggest it! Having a card with your name and title not only boosts your professional profile but also sends a subtle message to clients and colleagues that veterinary nurses are integral to the team.

2. Celebrate Your Achievements: Display your qualifications with pride. Whether it's on the clinic wall, your social media profile, or even your scrubs, let people know that you're a trained, registered professional with expertise in your field.

3. Educate Clients and Colleagues: Many clients don't understand what a veterinary nurse does. Take the time to explain your role and how your work impacts their pets' care. Within your team, ensure that your contributions are highlighted—especially during case reviews or team debriefs.

4. Advocate for Fair Titles: Titles matter because they reflect respect. While "Dr." is specific to veterinarians, there's room to push for consistent acknowledgment of veterinary nurses' roles. Whether it's using "[Name] RVN" or other professional identifiers, making this shift can elevate the status of veterinary nurses in the eyes of clients and colleagues alike. See our previous post on the use of post-nominals if you aren't sure where to start, or reach out. We can help.

5. Support Each Other: Building a culture of respect starts from within. Celebrate your fellow veterinary nurses' achievements, advocate for each other in the workplace, and share ideas on how to elevate the profession as a whole.

Building a Better Future

The veterinary profession is evolving, and so too should its recognition of all team members. veterinary nurses are highly skilled, well educated professionals who deserve the same respect afforded to their veterinarian colleagues. By advocating for change, educating others, and standing up for recognition, veterinary nurses can reshape their professional landscape.

A Call to Action

The shift toward greater professional respect for veterinary nurses doesn't happen overnight. It requires effort, not only from veterinary nurses themselves but from the entire veterinary profession. Vets, managers, and practice owners must play a role in creating an environment where every team member feels valued.

For veterinary nurses, this is an opportunity to reflect on your own journey. Are there ways you could advocate for yourself or your peers more confidently? Perhaps it's speaking up in meetings, nominating yourself for a leadership course (or the NZVNA Leadership Scholarship :) ), or simply asking for that long-overdue acknowledgment of your skills.

For clinic leaders and veterinarians, ask yourself this: What message is your workplace sending to veterinary nurses? Are they being given opportunities to thrive? 

Moving Forward Together

This isn't about creating a divide between veterinarians and veterinary nurses—it's about creating equality in recognition. Both roles are essential, and both deserve respect. By working together, we can build a profession where veterinary nurses feel empowered.

So let's start today. Let's celebrate the expertise, compassion, and leadership of veterinary nurses everywhere. Let's foster a culture where every member of the veterinary team can thrive.