Graduate on National Pet Awards' Veterinary Nurse of the Year shortlist

Posted 12 June

A Veterinary Nurse is calling for public support after being shortlisted in Northern Ireland’s National Pet Awards.

Lauren McGee, from Co. Tyrone, graduated from her BSc (Hons) Veterinary Nursing degree at Harper Adams University in Shropshire in September last year and took up a role as nurse at Parklands Veterinary Group in Cookstown.

Her dedication to her work means that, less than twelve months after graduating, she is now one of nine people in the running to be named Northern Ireland’s Veterinary Nurse of the Year.

She said: “Being shortlisted was an incredible honour - and a moment I felt extremely proud of.

“As a newly qualified veterinary nurse, it was particularly meaningful to have my dedication, compassion, and hard work recognised at a national level. The nomination gave me a real sense of achievement - and reinforced my passion for the profession.

“It was rewarding to know that the care I provide to patients, clients, and colleagues had made a positive impact and was valued by others.”

Lauren now needs members of the public to back her in the public vote for Northern Ireland’s Veterinary Nurse of the Year – and is underlining how the nomination also recognises the wider teamwork which makes the role a success.

She added: “I would really appreciate people’s support in the awards.

“Being a veterinary nurse is something I am genuinely passionate about, and I always strive to provide compassionate, high-quality care for every patient - while also supporting owners through what can often be a stressful time.

“This nomination means a lot as it recognises not just my work, but the dedication and teamwork that goes into every case, and I would be incredibly grateful for any support!”

Having worked in veterinary practice previously, Lauren decided to begin studying towards becoming a veterinary nurse after seeing the important role they play in patient care and client support.

She said: “Harper Adams appealed to me because of its strong industry links, practical placement opportunities, and focus on developing competent, confident veterinary professionals.

“I use the skills and knowledge gained there every day in practice.

“The combination of academic learning and hands-on training gave me confidence in areas such as patient care, anaesthesia, nursing procedures, and client communication, helping me provide high standards of care and work effectively within the veterinary team.”

Looking back at her time at University, Lauren described her four years of study as ‘very positive, and added: “The supportive lecturers, practical learning opportunities, and strong industry links helped me build confidence and develop the skills needed to become a competent veterinary nurse.

“The course challenged me academically while providing excellent preparation for working in practice.”

The full list of nominations and details of how to vote in the National Pet Awards can be found online here - voting closes on June 17.