When people think about working in a veterinary practice, they often picture vets carrying out surgery or nurses caring for patients. What many people don’t realise is that there is a whole team working behind the scenes to keep everything running smoothly, and as someone who works in veterinary administration, I can honestly say that it is one of the most rewarding jobs I could imagine doing.

No two days are ever the same, and that’s one of the things I enjoy most about the role. One minute I might be helping a client book an appointment for their new puppy’s vaccinations, the next I could be speaking to an anxious owner whose pet isn’t well, processing insurance claims, organising paperwork, or making sure our vets and nurses have everything they need for the day ahead. It can be busy and sometimes challenging, but it is never boring.

What is the best part of working in veterinary administration?

For me, the best part of veterinary administration is the people. We are often the first voice clients hear on the phone and the first face they see when they walk through the door. Pets are such an important part of people’s families, and owners can be experiencing a whole range of emotions when they come to see us. They may be excited, worried, stressed or upset, and being able to reassure them, listen to them and make them feel supported really matters.

I have learned that sometimes the smallest things can make the biggest difference. Remembering a pet’s name, asking how they are doing after a procedure, or simply taking a few extra minutes to explain something can mean a lot to owners. We celebrate the happy moments with our clients, such as welcoming a new puppy or kitten, and we also support them through some of the hardest decisions they will ever have to make. It is a privilege to be trusted during those moments.

Another thing I love about working in veterinary administration is being part of such a close-knit team. Everyone in a veterinary practice relies on each other. The vets, nurses, animal care assistants and administrative staff all work together with the same goal – providing the best possible care for our patients and their owners. There is a real sense of teamwork, and I always feel that what I do contributes to the bigger picture.

Over the years, I’ve developed skills that I never expected to gain. I’ve learned about animal health, insurance processes, client communication and managing busy schedules. I’ve become more confident in dealing with difficult situations and more organised than I ever thought possible. Veterinary administration is far more than answering phones and booking appointments; it is about helping to create a practice that clients feel comfortable coming to and ensuring that everything runs as smoothly as possible.

What’s it like working and living in Northumberland?

I also feel incredibly lucky to be doing this job in Tynedale. It is such a special part of the country, and I think it adds another dimension to working in veterinary practice. We are surrounded by wonderful communities where people genuinely know and care about one another. Many of our clients have been coming to the practice for years, and some families have trusted us with generations of pets. It is lovely getting to know people and their animals over time, watching puppies grow into older dogs and hearing stories about pets we have known for many years.

Working in Tynedale also means seeing a fantastic variety of animals. Alongside cats and dogs, we meet horses, sheep, cattle and animals belonging to smallholders. The area’s farming heritage means that animals are an important part of everyday life, and that variety keeps the job interesting.

Outside of work, I don’t think there are many better places to live than Northumberland. Having access to such beautiful countryside makes a huge difference to my work-life balance. After a busy day at the practice, being able to go for a walk along the river, explore the hills, or spend time on the coast helps me switch off and recharge.

Northumberland has so much to offer. From the stunning coastline and historic castles to the rolling countryside and dark skies, there is always somewhere new to discover. Places like Hexham have a great mix of independent shops, cafés and local events, while the surrounding villages retain a real sense of community. Life feels a little slower here, in the best possible way.

People often ask what it’s like working in veterinary administration, and my answer is always the same: it is hard work, but it is incredibly rewarding. You meet wonderful people, work alongside dedicated colleagues and know that what you do genuinely helps animals and their owners every single day.

For me, veterinary administration isn’t just a job. It’s being part of a team that cares deeply about its patients, its clients and each other. And being able to do that in Tynedale, surrounded by the beauty and warmth of Northumberland, makes me appreciate it even more. I can’t imagine working anywhere else.