The British Army has announced a recruitment drive for veterinary nurses to help look after military working dogs both in the UK and on deployed operations. 

Veterinary nurses are needed for an Army Reserve Squadron dedicated to military working dogs, formed in 2015 following the success of 1st Military Working Dog Regiment. 

Major Chris Ham of the Royal Army Veterinary Corps said: "There are many opportunities available to attain qualifications and skills so individuals can reach their potential, as well as sporting opportunities and many chances to participate in adventure training overseas and in the UK.

"It’s great, our soldiers really enjoy the challenge, the fun and excitement as well as the true sense of belonging; working together with like-minded individuals doing something truly worthwhile in their spare time working with animals, as well as being part of a professional close-knit team."  

Chris says he hopes there are RVNs that would like to supplement their full time civilian career with a part-time job as an RVN or handler in the Army Reserve. He says there are many benefits for the recruit and their civilian employer alike, including the chance to further develop your leadership, team-building and coaching skills, amongst others.

Recruits, who don't need any previous military experience, have to complete basic soldier training: a combination of weekend training and a final training course lasting 14 days. The training assesses an individual’s fitness as well as teaching them about military life, how to map read, how to live in the field, first aid and weapon handling.

Reservist soldiers include veterinary surgeons, prison officers, telecoms technicians, teachers, a nurse, train driver, custody officer, police officers, several dog handlers and kennel assistants.

The Squadron says it is keen for recruits to handle dogs early in the training process, and that RVNs' specialist skills are put to good use as soon as possible.

On completion of basic military training all Reservists are trained as Protection Military Working Dog Handlers on a 16 day residential course at the Defence Animal Centre. Here they are taught how to care for dogs in different situations as well as husbandry, kennel management, veterinary care, continuation training for Army dogs and how to handle the dogs on operations. RVNs would undergo the same training, and the Squadron says that having RVNs trained as handlers would give it even more potential.

Chris says that there are also excellent promotion prospects for those seeking a rewarding part-time career. Recruits who are able to commit to 19 days training a year, can currently earn £300 on joining, £1000 on completion of basic training, a further £1000 is payable on completion of the dog course, as well as receiving a daily rate of pay and generous fuel allowances for travel.  Individuals who complete 19 days or more a year earn a tax free bounty of £412 in year one, rising to over £1700 in year 5 and thereafter.

For further information, visit: army.mod.uk, or call 0345 600 8080.

PS: Whilst you're here, take a moment to see our latest job opportunities for vet nurses.