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The university has 'hired' 'Simba', 'Tia' and 'Fern' to join its interview panel during recruitment sessions at the university’s Sighthill campus.
The dogs are let loose amongst applicants taking part in a group discussion about Labradors, their features and their biological needs, as academic staff assess students vying for a place on the nursing programme.
The university says there is a serious point behind the dogs’ participation, with their presence helping staff assess applicants’ ability to communicate with both animals and humans – a core skill for someone embarking on a career as a veterinary nurse.
The dogs also helped create a tension-free atmosphere in the room, encouraging the candidates to relax and perform to the best of their ability.
Jodie Smith, lecturer and programme recruitment officer, said: "Having dogs present in interviews, in particular good quality Labradors, tests the aptitude of potential students for dealing with animals.
"Their presence also helps the assessors hone in on candidates' intuitive skills for working with dogs, which make up a large proportion of the patients in any veterinary practice.
"Each year we have very tough competition for places on the BSc (Hons) veterinary nursing programme. Incorporating dogs into the selection procedure allows applicants to display their skills in an authentic setting and greatly helps the decision-making process."
PS: Whilst you're here, take a moment to see our latest job opportunities for vet nurses.