Supreme Petfoods has announced that it is sponsoring the post of Exotic Animal Veterinary Nurse at The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, enabling a full time role to be maintained within the school's exotic animal clinic and teaching unit for the first time. 

The initial appointee to the post is Wendy Bament, a Veterinary Nurse who already has significant experience in the role.

Supreme Petfoods' Managing Director Chris Childs said: "We are delighted to sponsor this post. It offers a great opportunity for Supreme Petfoods to provide a combination of practical help for sick animals and support for The Dick Vet's valuable teaching work. We are looking forward to working with Wendy and The Dick Vet and also to developing and extending the relationship in the future."

The Exotic Animal and Wildlife Service at the University of Edinburgh's Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies treats a range of animals from skunks to tortoises.  The Dick Vet also has an Exotic Animal Teaching Facility, which includes rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, chinchillas, lizards, snakes and rats, where students can learn about the best way to care for exotic animals such as the right temperature and diet that different animals may require.

The newly sponsored post involves managing animals during their time at the Dick Vet, preparing and assisting in operations and managing aftercare.  An important part of the role is also to assist in the teaching of veterinary students, providing a practical insight into the specific requirements of small exotics. This includes daily care and dietary needs as well as how to handle sick animals and manage them before, during and after treatment or operations.

Anna Meredith (Head of Exotic Animal and Wildlife Service) said: "The Exotic Animal Teaching Facility was opened in April 2010 and so we are really pleased to have secured this sponsorship so early in the unit's history. The number of exotic animals we see through the hospital is expanding and it is important to give veterinary students as much experience and support in this area as possible. We know that rabbits are the most common household pet after cats and dogs, while guinea pigs and rats are increasingly popular. We are delighted to be working with Supreme Petfoods and to be able to secure this valuable role to assist with caring for exotic animals."

In addition to her duties in the hospital, the sponsorship will also enable Wendy Bament to share some of her insights and expertise both at professional seminars and conferences and via a number of public events that are also sponsored by Supreme Petfoods.

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