Kudos to you for being so ambitious!!

I think that even better would be to stop in to the place(s) personally and speak with someone face to face!!

This will allow you to get a feel for the place!!

Good luck!

That's awesome that you've found something you want to do!  Good on you.  And very wise to want to have a go at it and feel it out.

I would suggest talking to your local vet - particularly a small vet practice - and tell them exactly what you said below:  that you're wanting to study vet nursing, but you're just wanting to get some work experience first and see if it's definitely what you want to do.  I would suggest making a phone call because 1) you'll be able to tell better if the vet is someone you'd be happy to learn from; and 2) they'll find it harder to ignore you on the phone than in a letter.

I'm sure that most places would be more than happy to have you.  I used to volunteer at my local vets when I was kid and they were really grateful for the help and I learned a whole lot - even got to assist in a couple of operations.    You never know, volunteering could even lead to a job later on!

Fi said the RSPCA, they always need volunteers.  I must warn you about volunteering for a business that makes a profit, I believe it is illegal for an employer to take on volunteers as the position would normally be a paid one.  Just be careful when approaching private vet practices about this, they will always take you up on the offer, but it can mean big hassles for them if they are caught.

I did work experience with a vet practice in year 10 (OMG!  That was 12 years ago!!!!) and had a ball.  I was doing what the vet nurse assistance were doing (actually, their assistant was really sick during my time there! lol) and at the end I was offered a part time position doing the same (parents said no- long story there).  I was working pretty closely with the vet nurses, so got to see what their job was about too.  What I was doing is what they will get you to do, and I can tell you now, it was all the dirty jobs, but I was lucky enough to watch other areas of the practice too, including surgeries.

Approaching the businesses, it is probably better to treat it like a job application, and have a resume on hand etc.  If you want some help with this, Les is an expert in this field, so let me know and he can give some pointers on it all.  He worked for a job network member for 3 years and this was one of the areas he had to do.

If you approach your local RSPCA, then calling is going to be better than going to see them.  They are usually very busy (not enough hours in a day and all) but by calling, you are able to leave a message and not waste your time going out there only to find no one can talk to you at that time.  I also volunteered and did work experience with the RSPCA (I'm soooo feeling old right now!!!) and loved it.  I was placed in the cat house and was cleaning cages etc, but was also testing the temperament of the cats too.  They also had me helping the vets as well, so you will be able to get experience in most areas through them.

I would say write up as many letters as you can and go and hand deliver them...  Show how interested you are by showing up.... Explain the situation and leave your details with them...

Good luck

You go girl!!! I'd say pick up the phone and get talking!!! Let them know that you are returning to study next year and would really love the opportunity to gain some experience by volunteering. Another place to try is the RSPCA or an other animal shelter near by. They are always looking for volunteers!!! Best of luck (not that you'll need it) and get dialling!!

love ya,

fi xxoxx

P.S Oh thought of another way.... there is that organisation.. I think it's called Volunteering Australia. Give them a call and see if they know of anyone near by that takes volunteers in the area your interested in!!! hugs xoxo

I would go to all of them in your area. I would walk in and speak to them directly and ask that way. PPL are more likely to hire you as a volinteer if you show the inititive to walk in. DONT take bubs with ya but... LOL If ya cant get the car that day get Becca or me to come and give ya a hand.

Have a resume' ready and a cover note saying how much you love animals and want to get experience before you do the course so u have a better chance at getting in.

Good Luck hun.

i volunteer at the refuge every now and then and all i did was called them to see if they were interested in having u there.

hope this helps