Spotlight on staff – Louise Challice
It’s time to take a closer look at our talented nursing team so settle down and read about what makes Louise tick…
Where are you based and how long have you worked for Charter?
I’ve been based at Charter’s hospital at Roundswell for nearly five years and before that was based at Bridge house from 2006.
What made you decide to go into a veterinary nursing career?
I was always obsessed mainly with dogs as a child and then started horse riding and got a job in a kennels at weekends. By the age of 15 I was hooked and started working in a local vets on a Saturday morning.
What’s the best thing about your job? And the worst?
The best job is honestly watching a beginning to end story. One where a very sick patient comes in, we treat it accordingly and with medicine and our expertise we get to watch the animal go home after sometimes staying for up to a week or more. The saddest part is something you never get used to, the passing of an animal. For me, I actually find it harder now than I did when I was younger. Having now lost my own pets over the last 20 years, I can sympathise more with clients.
Which training route did you take?
I did a 2 year sandwich course. Which consisted mainly training in practice with a college block in each of the two years. I attended Berkshire Royal College of Agriculture. I later became an NVQ assessor and am currently a clinical coach.
Do you have animals yourself? What are they?
I have a varied collection to say the least. I have a very naughty long haired Jack Russell who will be 14 this year. A 2 year old Huntaway Collie cross called ‘Tavy’ who has boundless energy but is great fun. A cat called ‘Dumble, 2 Degus, 2 Gunea pigs, and last but not least ‘Caitlin’ who is our 6 year old Blue Maran chicken who is still keeping us in eggs.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
My main pastime is to walk the dogs and read when not at work. I love to cook when I have all my family are home.
What’s your favourite place to go in North Devon?
I live in Torrington so I am very lucky to be really close to the Tarka Trail and nearby commons. Beach wise out of season we love to go to Instow and Crow point beaches.
