The Vet Nurse Hacker Podcast

Ticked Off: Inside The Ehrlichiosis Epidemic With Dr. Peter Irwin - Part 2📄 Episode Show Notes In Part 1 of this series, Dr Liisa Ahlstrom helped us understand what ehrlichiosis is, where it’s spreading across Australia, and why prevention is so different from paralysis tick disease.In this episode, we take the next step with Professor Peter Irwin, internal medicine specialist and one of Australia’s leading experts on vector-borne disease in dogs. Peter was directly involved in the very first confirmed cases of ehrlichiosis in the Northern Territory back in 2020, and he brings decades of experience in research, teaching, and clinical medicine.We dive into:🩸 Why Peter ranks ehrlichiosis among the top three most serious canine diseases worldwide🔬 The pathophysiology of Ehrlichia canis — how it causes widespread inflammation, immune complex disease, and systemic illness📈 The phases of disease (acute, subclinical, chronic) and how dogs present in each stage🧪 Key diagnostic clues for nurses to watch for on CBCs, blood smears, and biochemistry⚖️ Differentials and co-infections — when babesiosis or anaplasmosis might also be at play💉 Treatment pearls: doxycycline, supportive nursing care, blood transfusion considerations, and the controversy around corticosteroid use🏥 Surgical implications in endemic regions — pre-anaesthetic platelet checks and monitoring for delayed bleeding🐾 Ehrlichiosis in cats — what’s known, what’s theoretical, and what to watch forBetween Part 1 and Part 2, you now have the full ehrlichiosis picture: from prevention and epidemiology to the clinic floor and patient care.🔗 Resources mentioned in this episodeAustralian Government DAFF ehrlichiosis resourcesFourie et al. 2013 – Transmission within 3 hours of tick biteStanneck & Fourie 2013 – Seresto preventing E. canis transmissionJongejan et al. 2016 – Comparing repellents vs systemic tick products💬 If this episode gave you a lightbulb moment, share it with your clinic team or tag me on Instagram @vetnursehacker or @vickythevetnurse.Your feedback and stories help keep this community strong.

Ticked Off: The Ehrlichiosis Episode with Dr. Liisa AhlstromEhrlichiosis is here—and it’s not your usual paralysis tick story. In this warm, technical chat with Dr Liisa Ahlstrom, technical vet at Elanco for Seresto, we break down what ehrlichiosis is, where it’s showing up across Australia, and why prevention looks different when transmission can occur in as little as three hours. This is Part 1 (the what/where/prevention); Part 2 brings Prof. Peter Irwin for diagnostics, differentials, and nursing care.📄 Episode Show Notes Most of us on the east coast know the paralysis tick all too well — but did you know there’s another tick-borne disease spreading across Australia that looks completely different? In this episode of the Vet Nurse Hacker podcast, I’m joined by Dr Liisa Ahlstrom, technical vet at Elanco for Seresto, to shine a light on ehrlichiosis.We unpack:✅ What ehrlichiosis actually is (and how to pronounce it without tripping over your tongue)✅ The difference between the brown dog tick and the paralysis tick — and how their diseases show up so differently in patients✅ Why prevention for ehrlichiosis is a whole new ball game, with transmission happening in as little as three hours✅ How this disease arrived in Australia, where it’s spreading, and what that means for clinics everywhere✅ Key myth-busts and takeaways for vet nurses, techs, and vets on the frontlinesThis is part one of a two-part ehrlichiosis series. Today we set the scene with the what, where, and how to prevent it. In part two, I’ll be joined by Professor Peter Irwin for the clinical deep dive into diagnostics, differentials, and nursing care. If you’ve ever pulled a brown dog tick off a patient and thought “phew, at least it’s not a paralysis tick” — this is an episode you can’t afford to miss.🔗 Resources mentioned in this episode (Links Coming Upon Upload!)Australian Government (DAFF) ehrlichiosis resources: Ehrlichiosis in dogs – information for clinics, owners, and rescuesFourie et al. 2013 – Disease transmission within 3 hours of tick bite: Vet Parasitol. 197:595–603Stanneck & Fourie 2013 – Seresto preventing Ehrlichia canis transmission: Parasitol Res. 112:S21–S32Jongejan et al. 2016 – Comparing repellent vs systemic tick products for ehrlichiosis prevention: Parasit Vectors. 9:348💬 Got a question, case story, or lightbulb moment from this episode? I’d love to hear it — DM me on Instagram @vetnursehacker or @vickythevetnurse, or email me at vetnursehacker@gmail.com.

Beransa Backlash: Sorting Science from Speculation Guest: Babs Tasker, Emergency & Critical Care Vet Nurse, Veterinary Territory ManagerHost: Vicky the Vet NurseLength: ~1 hr 21 mins🔍 Episode Summary: This episode dives head-first into one of the most contentious conversations in vet med right now: the backlash surrounding Beransa (Librela). With headlines, social media spirals, and speculation dominating the narrative, it’s time to pause, unpack the science, and get curious—not chaotic.Our guest, Babs Tasker, is a powerhouse ECC vet nurse with over 30 years in the industry and now a Veterinary Territory Manager at Zoetis. She's here to share insights from the clinic floor and the regulatory world, addressing concerns around Beransa’s safety, the now-infamous Farrell study, updated labels, post-approval data, and the truth behind those adverse event reports.This isn’t a sponsored episode. There’s no editorial input from Zoetis—just two vet professionals having an open, honest, and evidence-based conversation about how we can advocate for our patients through clarity, not fear.💬 What We Cover:What Beransa (Librela) is and how it works as a monoclonal antibodyWhat the updated APVMA and FDA labels really meanHow post-approval pharmacovigilance works (and why it matters)A breakdown of the Farrell et al. (2025) case series and its limitationsThe dangers of correlation vs. causation in the age of TikTok and fear-based postsHow to navigate misinformation, emotional backlash, and clinical biasReal-world success stories from clinics using BeransaHow to use client information sheets, monitor side effects, and report concernsHow to hold space for concern without discarding innovation🛠️ Resources & Links: COMING SOON!!! (One Spotify uploads episode! Stay tuned!)18.1M Dose Pharmacovigilance Report (Zoetis)Zoetis Client Information SheetBedinvetmab vs Meloxicam clinicial studyBeransa Canine OA Flow ChartZoetis response to recent publications re RPOARead the Farrell et al. (2025) Case Series in Frontiers in Vet Science✉️ Got Questions?We want to hear from you. Email us at vetnursehacker@gmail.com or DM @vickythevetnurse or @vetnursehacker with your questions or feedback. We’ll be adding follow-up resources in the show notes as needed!💌 Final Word: If you’re a vet nurse, vet, or student feeling overwhelmed by the noise—this episode is for you. It’s okay to have questions. It’s okay to be uncertain. But let’s commit to staying informed, open, and always advocating for what matters most: our patients.

Just a Vet Nurse, Asking to Be Seen: Laura Bennington on ECC, Leadership & Changing the Game 🩺 Episode Summary: In this deeply honest and empowering episode of the Vet Nurse Hacker Podcast, we sit down with Laura Bennington, RVN, VTS (ECC)—Emergency & Critical Care specialist, educator, and founder of VEST (Veterinary Emergency Specialty Training).From her early days in general practice in the UK to her move to Australia, Laura shares the winding, wonderful (and at times wobbly) path that led her to advanced certification, founding her own CE platform, and becoming a fierce advocate for vet nurse value.We unpack the must-haves for your crash cart, triage mistakes to avoid, how to grow confidence in emergency settings, and why leadership doesn’t require a title. And then we go even deeper—into what it really means to say, “I’m just a vet nurse, standing in front of an industry, asking it to value me.”Whether you're a seasoned ECC nurse, new to the game, or somewhere in between—this one will hit your heart and your clinical brain. 🧠 What We Cover:Laura’s journey from Scotland to Australia—and from self-doubt to VTSWhat inspired her to launch VEST, and why nurse-focused CE mattersMust-have items for every crash cart (yes, including suction!)The art of rapid triage and managing five blocked cats at onceThe real difference between experience and empowermentHow to build confidence, speak up, and advocate in high-pressure environmentsWhy retention isn't solved by pizza—and what vet nurses actually needThe problem with title protection (and how unqualified roles hurt all of us)Hope, burnout, identity, and why ECC is more human than we think⚡ Rapid Fire Fun:If ECC was a cocktail? 🍸The weirdest (and most satisfying) foreign body storyOne thing Laura wishes every vet nurse knewHer guilty pleasure post-shift ritualWhy “Pred Before Dead” is a thing (sort of)📲 Connect with Laura Bennington:Instagram: @laurarvn.vestCourses & CE: invest.thinkific.comEmail: vet.emergency.specialty.training@gmail.com🐾 Loved this episode? Tap follow, leave a review, or share it with the vet nurse who needs to hear this.For more real talk and deep dives, follow @vetnursehacker and @vickythevetnurse. Check out Uncage Me — our signature course for veterinary professionals ready to reclaim their joy - www.vetxir.com

Surfing the CO₂ Waves: How to Spot Shark Fin & The Leak on a Capnograph 🎧 Vet Nurse Hacker Podcast – Episode 10Capnography isn’t just a bunch of squiggly lines — it’s your patient’s ventilation story, written in real time.And in this episode, we’re zeroing in on two triangle-shaped waveforms that can trip you up if you don’t know what you’re looking at: The Shark Fin and The Leak.You’ll learn:🐟 The Shark Fin – What it means when your capnograph slopes up during exhalation (hint: it’s an outflow resistance problem), what causes it in vet patients, and exactly how to troubleshoot it before things get hairy.🎈 The Leak – How to spot that right-sloping triangle that says gas is sneaking out where it shouldn’t, the most common culprits in practice, and the fast checks that can fix it before your patient’s ventilation or airway protection is compromised. 🧠 Memory hacks so you can instantly recognise which triangle you’re looking at, even under pressure.🛠 Real-life scenarios from the treatment room so you can see these waveforms in action — from cats with deflating cuffs mid-dental, to Yorkies with airway collapse. Whether you’re new to anaesthesia monitoring or you’ve been staring at capnographs for years, this episode will make sure you never mix up these two lookalikes again — and that you know exactly what to do when you spot them.📎 Resources & Extras:Visual waveform cheat sheet (Shark Fin vs. Leak)Quick-reference nurse action checklist for both waveformsLinks to more capnography deep dives from trusted veterinary sources💬 Have you spotted a Shark Fin or a Leak in one of your patients? Share your story and tag me — I love hearing how you’re putting these skills into action.@vickythevetnurse@vetnursehacker

🎧 Vet Nurse Hacker — Ask Me Anything: Vet Nurse Hacker Confessions Host: Vicky, VTS (Nutrition)Episode Type: Solo AMA (Ask Me Anything)🩺 Episode Overview: In this raw and real AMA-style episode, Victoria answers the juiciest questions she's received from vet nurses across the profession. From clinical confidence to imposter syndrome, burnout to boundaries, and everything in between — this episode is a vulnerable deep-dive into what it really means to be a vet nurse in 2025. If you've ever asked yourself, “Is there more to this career?” — this episode is your sign that yes, there is. So grab a cuppa and let’s unpack the heart, hustle, and hidden truths of vet nursing.🔥 What You’ll Hear in This Episode:The #1 Clinical Skill Every Nurse Should Master (Spoiler: It’s Not Intubation)Why Victoria believes VTS titles are absolutely worth itThe hardest case she’s ever worked on — and how it shaped her foreverThe two things she’d change about how nurses are treated in clinic (utilization + pay!)Real talk about quitting, staying, and questioning your place in the professionHow she rebuilt her career after hitting rock bottomThe truth about burnout — how sneaky it is, and how you might not even know you're in itHer hot take on resilience training (aka: stop giving us more PowerPoints while we drown)Why rest is a boundary, not a rewardHer journey with imposter syndrome as a specialist — and how she pushes through itWhat a typical day looks like now as a business owner and locum nurseHer advice to any vet nurse thinking about walking away💡 Key Takeaways:Advocacy is a clinical skill — and your voice matters.You can absolutely step away from vet nursing and come back stronger.Burnout is preventable, but only if we start recognizing it and supporting each other.There is a future for vet nurses who want more — in leadership, business, education, product development, coaching, and beyond.You’re not stuck. You’re expanding. That’s worth celebrating.🧠 Resources Mentioned:🌟 Uncage Me: The Radical Reset for the Human Behind the HealerAn emotional reset course built specifically for vet nurses, techs, and vets.Normally $249 — get it for just $99 with the code vetnursehacker→ Uncage Me: RESET NOWLearn more about Uncage Me: The Radical Reset for the Human Behind the Healer Here!🎙️ Episode 5 — Claire Boyle’s Career Pivot to Life Coach🎧 A must-listen if you’re thinking about building a career beyond the clinic.🐾 Connect with VickyInstagram: @vickythevetnurseEmail: vetnursehacker@gmail.com or @vetnursehackerCompanion Animal Nutrition Service: cans.vetVetXIR (training + wellbeing): vetxir.com💬 Loved this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a vet nurse friend who needs to hear it. 💛

In this powerhouse episode of The Vet Nurse Hacker Podcast, Vicky is joined by the legendary Megan Brashear, BS, RVT, VTS (ECC) — a veterinary technician specialist, international speaker, educator, and deeply respected leader in emergency and critical care. From baby Megan’s animal-obsessed beginnings to becoming one of the most recognisable voices in veterinary nursing education, this episode explores her journey, lessons learned, and why she believes ECC nurses are absolutely superheroes. Megan opens up about:The chaotic but exhilarating early days of ECCWhy mentorship, teamwork and emotional intelligence are non-negotiable in vet medHow she navigated burnout, leadership and major life changeWhat keeps her in love with ECC, even after two decadesWhy techs teaching techs is the legacy she's most passionate aboutHer favourite topics to teach (spoiler: bring on the acid-base nerds!)Packed with honesty, humour, real-life stories (including auto-transfusing blood in a white boxer at 3AM), and practical advice, this episode is a must-listen for anyone in the veterinary profession—especially those curious about ECC, leadership, or public speaking.💡 Topics Covered:Megan’s vet tech origin storyECC highs, heartbreaks, and what makes it magicalThe truth about burnout and working “invincible” shiftsThe transition from floor to education and leadershipTraining tips and in-the-moment learning in emergency settingsHer journey to becoming an international educator and speakerAdvice for vet nurses wanting to get into public speakingThe secret to longevity in vet med (hint: it involves peanut butter & good people)Rapid fire: scrub pocket surprises, chaotic shifts, theme songs & more🧠 Key Takeaway:“You can do this—you just may need to make a few changes. You don’t have to push so hard all the time. The knowledge will come. You’ll get there.” — Megan Brashear🔗 Connect with Megan:Catch Megan at upcoming conferences like VMX and IVECCS, or come say hi at her next international speaking engagement—she promises she actually loves talking to people, even as an introvert.Follow Vicky@vickythevetnurse and @vetnursehacker and learn more at www.vetxir.com

The Vet Nurse's Guide to Brave Conversations 🩺 Episode Summary:In this heartfelt episode of Vet Nurse Hacker, Vicky unpacks the emotional reality of having hard conversations in vet med—from asking for a break, to setting a boundary, to speaking up when something doesn’t feel right. If you’ve ever cried in your car after a shift or second-guessed your voice in the treatment room, this one’s for you. Vicky walks you through the emotional labour we carry as vet nurses, how that impacts our ability to speak up, and—most importantly—how to reclaim your voice without burning out or burning bridges. With practical tools like the SANE Method, grounding strategies, and easy-to-remember scripts, this episode is your go-to guide for building brave conversations that honour your humanity. 🧠 What You'll Learn:Why hard conversations feel unsafe (hint: it's not about confidence)How emotional labour affects our ability to advocate for ourselvesThe SANE Method to prepare what you want to sayScripts and phrases to hold your ground without conflictNervous system regulation tools for before and after the convoHow to reflect, reset, and reclaim your power—even if it felt messy🛠️ Tools & Takeaways:SANE Method: Situation, Action, Need, EmotionBox breathing & grounding anchorsMantras to stay calm: “I am safe to speak. My needs matter.”Broken record technique for holding boundaries under pressureReflection questions to build self-trust post-conversation🧡 VetXIR + Uncage MeIf this episode landed deep—if you’re ready to go from just surviving to showing up with confidence—explore VetXIR for in-clinic skill building, or join Uncage Me, the emotional reset course for the human behind the healer. 📱 Connect with Victoria:Instagram: @vickythevetnursePodcast IG: @vetnursehackerWebsite: vetxir.com 💬 Listener Love:“If this episode resonated, or you're processing your own brave convo, DM me on IG or leave a voice note—I'd love to hold space for you.” 🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with the vet nurse who needs to hear it.

🎙️ Episode Title: Nailed It — How Vet Tech Alex Contreras Built KlipTrio From the Ground Up 🚨 Episode Highlights:In this inspiring episode of The Vet Nurse Hacker, Vicky is joined by veterinary technician, canine massage therapist, and entrepreneur Alex Contreras — the visionary creator behind KlipTrio, the world’s first 3-in-1 nail clipper with an integrated file and disposable styptic powder cartridge. Together, they dive into:Alex’s journey from vet tech to award-winning inventorThe everyday clinic frustration that sparked KlipTrio’s creationHow one traumatic nail trim became a lightbulb moment 💡Why KlipTrio is a confidence-boosting must-have for every clinic and pet parentAlex’s bold leap into entrepreneurship and his all-in approach (yes, including a tattoo!)The launch of PetTrio Charity and his powerful mission to support both pets and the people who care for them🔥 If you’ve ever cursed your way through a nail trim or dreamed of building something that solves a real clinical problem, this one will fire you up. Expect laughter, truth bombs, and a healthy dose of "you can do it too." 🛠️ What Is KlipTrio?KlipTrio is a patented 3-in-1 nail clipper designed by a vet tech for vet professionals and pet parents:Nail clipping, filing, and styptic application in one toolHygienic, disposable styptic powder cartridgesBuilt for speed, safety, and reducing patient (and human!) stress💡 Spoiler alert: It's the tool you didn't know you needed until now. 🫶 Support the MissionAlex’s work doesn’t stop at innovation. Through PetTrio Charity, he's helping fund veterinary care for underserved communities, supporting vet tech education, and advocating for accessible pet healthcare. 👉 Follow and support:Website: www.kliptrio.com | www.pettriocharity.orgInstagram: @kliptrio | @pettriocharityTikTok: @kliptrio💬 Call to Action:Loved this episode? Show some love:Hit follow on your podcast appLeave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ reviewShare it with a vet nurse or pet parent who hates nail trims🧠 Bonus Mention:This episode is brought to you by Uncage Me — an 8-week radical reset for the human behind the healer. If you’re ready to ditch burnout and rediscover your joy in practice, check out the course via the show notes.Chapters00:00Introduction to Innovation in Vet Med01:04Alex Contreras: A Journey from Passion to Purpose03:59The Importance of Veterinary Technicians06:47Finding Passion in Veterinary Dentistry09:19The Entrepreneurial Spirit: From Dogapy to ClipTrio11:58The Birth of ClipTrio: Addressing Pain Points in Nail Trimming14:56Designing ClipTrio: Features and Benefits17:37The Patent Journey: Overcoming Challenges21:32The Future of ClipTrio and Its Impact on Vet Med39:12The Journey of an Entrepreneur41:16Transforming Challenges into Opportunities43:59Navigating Aggressive Pets: A Case Study50:25Innovating with ClipTrio: A New Approach to Nail Trimming55:58Philanthropy and the Pet Trio Charity01:02:25Building a Community: The Human-Animal Bond01:05:47Time Management and Balancing Responsibilities01:08:33Protecting Your Energy and Space01:13:16Vision for the Future: Dreams and Aspirations01:20:26Embracing the Vet Nurse Journey01:20:26Overcoming Burnout in Veterinary Nursing

In this episode of the Vet Nurse Hacker podcast, host Victoria speaks with Claire Boyle, a veterinary nurse and life coach, about her journey through the veterinary profession, her transition into corporate life, and her passion for coaching fellow veterinary professionals. They discuss the importance of self-care, setting boundaries, and the value of mentorship in navigating the challenges of the veterinary field. Claire shares insights from her coaching practice, Claire's Simple Solutions, and emphasizes the need for community support and personal development in the veterinary industry.  Claire Boyle's journey showcases diverse career paths in veterinary nursing.The transition from vet nursing to corporate roles can be challenging yet rewarding.Territory managers play a crucial role in supporting veterinary clinics.Setting boundaries is essential for preventing burnout in veterinary professionals.Coaching can provide valuable support for those feeling lost in their careers.Investing in personal development is key to self-worth and growth.Community support is vital for veterinary professionals facing challenges.Mindset shifts can transform how we perceive our roles and responsibilities.Every veterinary professional should consider having a mentor or coach.  Chapters00:00Introduction to Claire Boyle's Journey04:32The Early Days: Discovering Vet Nursing07:42Cultural Influences and Personal Growth12:46Challenges in the Veterinary Field16:50Transitioning to Corporate Life20:29Life as a Territory Manager31:12The Importance of Nutrition in Veterinary Care33:51Awards and Achievements: Balancing Success37:29Advice for Aspiring Vet Nurses40:25Becoming a Coach: A New Chapter43:07The Journey into Coaching46:13Understanding Coaching vs. Mentoring49:44The Passion for Coaching53:46Claire's Simple Solutions: Mission and Vision57:55The Joys and Challenges of Entrepreneurship01:00:31Setting Boundaries in Caregiving01:02:44Grounding Techniques for Caregivers01:09:46Taking the First Step in Your Journey01:11:31Finding Clarity in Coaching01:15:39Investing in Self-Development01:19:18Mindset Matters: Thoughts, Feelings, and Actions01:22:22Embracing the Vet Nurse Journey01:22:22Overcoming Burnout in Veterinary NursingClaire's Simple Solutions: https://www.instagram.com/claires_simple_solutions/   Uncage Me: The Radical Reset for the Human Behind The Healer - www.vetxir.com

Ep 4: Scrubbed In, Left Out - We Do The Work, Now Let Us Own The Title In this episode of the Vet Nurse Hacker podcast, Victoria discusses the critical issue of title protection for veterinary nurses in Australia. She highlights the lack of legal recognition for the title 'veterinary nurse,' which allows unqualified individuals to use the title, posing risks to patient safety and undermining the professionalism of trained nurses. The episode explores the implications of this lack of protection, the current state of title protection in Australia, and compares it with global practices. Victoria emphasizes the need for collaboration among veterinary professionals to advocate for title protection and outlines actionable steps for listeners to contribute to this movement.     🔍 What We Cover:Veterinary nurses in Australia currently lack title protection, allowing unqualified individuals to use the title.Title protection is essential for ensuring patient safety and professional accountability.The absence of title protection leads to confusion and risks in veterinary care.Australia is lagging behind other countries in terms of veterinary nurse regulation.The AVNAT scheme is a step towards professional recognition but remains voluntary.Collaboration among veterinary professionals is crucial for advocating for title protection.Mental health issues among veterinary professionals are linked to lack of recognition and support.Global models of veterinary nurse regulation can provide insights for Australia.Title protection is not just about status; it's about safety and respect.Every veterinary nurse can contribute to the movement for title protection by taking action in their clinics.  Chapters00:00Introduction to Vet Nurse Hacker Podcast01:22The Importance of Title Protection02:04Understanding Title Protection and Its Implications10:00Consequences of Lack of Title Protection17:31Current State of Title Protection in Australia27:05Global Perspectives on Veterinary Nurse Regulation33:41Collaboration Over Competition in Veterinary Nursing38:04Future Directions for Title Protection44:25Taking Action for Change  Listener Prompt: Have you ever felt unseen in your role?Have a story about stepping up, innovating, or advocating from within your clinic? 👉 Tag @vetnursehacker on socials or📩 Email: vetnursehacker@gmail.comWe’d love to share your voice in future episodes.   Don't forget to check out Uncage Me: The Radical Reset For The Human Behind The Healer at www.vetxir.com

Had a shocker of a shift? You’re not alone, and you’re definitely not a bad nurse because of it. In this episode of The Vet Nurse Hacker, we’re getting real about those days when nothing goes right — the vein you just can’t hit, the case that haunts you, the moment you break down in the treatment room. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s something every vet nurse has felt (even the ones who look like they’ve got it all together). We’ll chat about:Why one bad day doesn’t define your skills or your worthHow to break the cycle of self-blame and imposter syndromeWhat to say to yourself instead when your confidence takes a hitPractical tools to bounce back, reset, and keep showing upIf you’ve ever walked out of a shift questioning everything — this one’s for you. 💛 Come as you are. Stay for the hugs, hacks, and heart. TakeawaysBad days happen to everyone in veterinary medicine, it's about how we bounce back.It's normal to take work home emotionally, but we can create boundaries.Caring does not mean you should blame yourself.Create a win file to remind yourself of successes.Establish a post-shift reset ritual to decompress.The 24-hour rule helps prevent impulsive decisions.You are a good nurse, even on bad days.Showing up after a tough shift is a sign of strength.Bad days do not rewrite your entire story.Chapters00:00Introduction: Embracing Bad Days in Vet Nursing03:22Understanding the Chaos of Veterinary Medicine06:11Shifting the Narrative: Self-Compassion in Nursing09:47Post-Shift Reset Rituals for Emotional Well-being12:36The 24-Hour Rule: Making Thoughtful Decisions15:32Conclusion: You Are a Good Nurse, Even on Bad Days16:32Embracing the Vet Nurse JourneyUncage Me: Radical Reset for the Human Behind the Healer UncageMe is an 8 week reset designed for veterinary professionals looking to reset from the fatigue of veterinary medicine. Learn more at www.vetxir.com

In this very first episode of The Vet Nurse Hacker podcast, we sit down with the brilliant and down-to-earth Bri Harding — a vet nurse who turned her big ideas into bold action. From the hustle of clinic life to launching a tiny home Airbnb and creating an online puppy school, Bri shares her inspiring journey of building not just one, but two businesses from the ground up. We chat about the challenges, the mindset shifts, and the surprising wins that came with stepping outside the comfort zone. Whether you're dreaming of starting a side hustle or simply curious about what’s possible beyond the treatment room, this episode is your permission slip to dream bigger. Grab a cuppa, take a deep breath, and get ready to be inspired by a fellow vet nurse who proves that it’s never too late — or too early — to back yourself. Key Takeaways:Vet nurses often seek entrepreneurship due to low pay.Brianna's journey into vet nursing began with a career book. Perseverance is key in completing vet nursing qualifications.Surgical nursing is a rewarding aspect of vet nursing.Compassionate care is crucial for nervous pet owners.Brianna transitioned to Brisbane for new opportunities.The Airbnb venture was a significant achievement for Brianna.Building a brand for the Airbnb was essential for success.Mindset and resilience are vital for overcoming business challenges.Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:27 Challenges and Progression in the Field 07:04 The Rewards of Surgical Nursing 17:44 Becoming an Airbnb Host 26:33 Building an Online Puppy Training Business 36:17 Tips for Vet Nurses Interested in Entrepreneurship 40:04 Promoting Mental Health in the Veterinary Industry 46:52 Taking Small Steps and Maintaining a Positive Mindset 52:55 Supporting Others in Their Entrepreneurial Journeys 01:18:26 Embracing the Vet Nurse Journey 01:18:27 Overcoming Burnout in Veterinary Nursing Social Media:@vethursehacker@vickythevetnurse@vetxirUncage Me: The Radical Reset For The Human Behind The Healer UncageMe is designed for veterinary professionals feeling burnt out. Learn more at www.vetxir.com

In this episode of The Vet Nurse Hacker Podcast, we dive into one of the most underestimated — but absolutely life-saving — tools in your hospital arsenal: nutrition support for renal patients. From cranky kidneys to even crankier appetites, feeding hospitalised cats and dogs with renal disease can feel like a never-ending battle. But don’t worry — we’ve got your back (and your syringe). We break down:The real difference between CKD and AKI (without the textbook snooze)What’s actually happening in those sad little kidneysKey nutritional goals for renal patients (and why they matter so much)Practical feeding strategies: from hand-feeding to tube feedsHow to troubleshoot common issues like food refusal, nausea, and feeding aversionsAnd yes… why food left in a cage for 6 hours is a crime against cats everywhereThis episode is packed with gold for vet nurses, techs, and vets alike — whether you're new to renal patients or just looking to level up your feeding game. Because food isn’t just fuel — in renal care, it’s medicine. Takeaways:Nutrition is essential for renal patients' recovery.Nausea management is crucial before feeding.Behavioural strategies can enhance feeding success.Early intervention in feeding leads to better outcomes.Quality of protein is more important than quantity.Feeding should be tailored to individual patient needs.Calm feeding environments improve appetite.Monitor intake closely to prevent complications.Use appetite stimulants to encourage eating.Food is a critical part of the treatment plan.Chapters00:00Introduction to Hospital Feeding Strategies01:50Understanding Renal Disease in Pets05:25Nutrition Goals for Renal Patients15:19Feeding Techniques for Renal Patients23:30Diet Options for Hospitalized Renal Patients32:14Creative Feeding Solutions for Renal Cats and Dogs37:01Understanding Renal Patient Feeding Challenges39:58Nausea Management and Its Impact on Feeding42:31Appetite Support Strategies for Stubborn Patients45:22Behavioral Techniques to Encourage Eating 47:29The Importance of Monitoring and Nutrition Plans  www.vetxir.com to learn more!