Veterinary Nurse

About VetsCape

VetsCape Small Animal Hospital is a 24-hour referral and emergency practice based in Paarl. We are an ECVS-approved residency training centre for Small Animal Surgery and operate at specialist level across multiple disciplines.

Our nursing team is central to how the hospital runs. We look for nurses who care about doing the work properly, who can think on their feet, and who understand that patient care always comes first.

Role overview

The GP Veterinary Nurse is responsible for the day-to-day nursing care of hospitalised, surgical, and emergency patients. The role works closely with the vets, the surgical team, and the wider nursing team to ensure consistent, high-quality patient care across all shifts.

This is a hands-on clinical role suited to someone who wants to grow inside a referral hospital environment.

Key responsibilities

• Provide nursing care for hospitalised, surgical, ICU, and emergency patients.
• Monitor and record patient vitals, fluid therapy, medication administration, and treatment plans.
• Assist with anaesthesia: induction, monitoring, recovery, and theatre support.
• Prepare patients, instruments, and theatre for surgical procedures.
• Perform routine nursing procedures including IV catheter placement, sample collection, wound care, and bandaging.
• Assist with diagnostic imaging (radiography, ultrasound support) and laboratory work.
• Maintain accurate clinical records and handover notes between shifts.
• Communicate clearly and professionally with clients during admissions, updates, and discharges.
• Maintain hospital hygiene, infection control standards, and equipment readiness.
• Support the wider team during emergencies, regardless of shift or area.

Minimum requirements

• Diploma in Veterinary Nursing.
• Registered with the South African Veterinary Council (SAVC), or eligible for registration.
• Newly qualified Veterinary Nurses are welcome to apply.
• Willingness to work rotational shifts, including nights, weekends, and public holidays.
• Valid driver's licence and own reliable transport.
• Right to work in South Africa.

Skills and attributes we look for

• Calm and steady under pressure.
• Strong clinical attention to detail.
• Clear, respectful communication with team members and clients.
• Reliable, punctual, and accountable.
• Willingness to learn and to be taught.
• Genuine commitment to patient welfare.

What we offer

• Exposure to referral-level and specialist cases in a 24-hour hospital setting.
• Structured clinical mentorship from experienced vets and senior nurses.
• Opportunity to grow within a teaching hospital environment.
• A team that supports one another across shifts.

How to apply

Email your CV, a short cover letter, and proof of SAVC registration (or expected registration date) directly to:

Suné Pienaar — HR Manager, VetsCape Animal Hospital

Email: sune@vetscape.co.za

Please use the subject line: Veterinary Nurse Application — [Your Full Name].

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you have not heard from us within four weeks of submitting your application, please consider your application unsuccessful.

VetsCape Animal Hospital is an equal opportunity employer.