If you’re a Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN), chances are you’ve read an article in VN Times, Veterinary Nurse Journal (VNJ), or an online CPD platform and thought, “That’s really useful.” But have you ever considered writing something yourself?
You don’t need to be an academic, a specialist, or a lifelong writer to contribute to the profession. In fact, some of the most powerful and practical ideas and insights come from RVNs working on the front line. Here’s why your voice matters, how to take your first steps towards becoming a published veterinary nursing author, and how you can gain key academic writing skills:
Why your voice matters: We need more RVNs publishing!
Veterinary nursing is rich with experience, insight, and innovation. Every day, RVNs problem-solve, lead patient care, mentor students, audit protocols, and communicate complex ideas with clarity. Yet too often, that knowledge stays inside the practice walls or inside your head.
Publishing your work helps share valuable ideas and real-world insight with the wider profession, build your confidence and credibility, spark discussion, and shape the future of evidence-based care and reflective practice. Most importantly, when more RVNs publish, the veterinary nursing profession becomes more visible, respected, and self-defined.
What to write: Case Studies, audits, reflections and more
You don’t need to discover a new clinical technique to write something meaningful. Some of the most valuable articles are based on what’s already happening in your practice. For example, you could write about:
- A patient case that challenged your thinking
- A clinical audit or protocol you helped improve
- A reflective piece on communication, ethics, or team dynamics
- A QI (Quality Improvement) project or evidence-based change you led
- A review of current literature on a topic that interests you.
Start by asking: What have I learned recently that others could benefit from too?
Where to publish: Veterinary nursing publications, journals and online platforms
There are several respected outlets you could submit to, including:
- VN Times – Practical, reflective pieces from nurses in all settings
- The Veterinary Nurse – Academic and peer-reviewed articles
- Veterinary Nursing Journal (VNJ) – Profession-led, peer-reviewed content
- Online CPD providers – Blogs, case studies or resource development
- Veterinary Nursing blogs such as the CAW Blog
- Practice or group websites and newsletters – Great for building confidence before submitting to wider publications
Many platforms welcome new voices and will offer editorial support to help shape your article.
Overcoming the fear of writing: Tips to get started
It’s completely natural to feel apprehensive about putting your ideas in print — especially if you don’t have much experience writing or haven’t written formally for a while. Here are some ways to get past the block:
- Start small – Reflective pieces or short case summaries are a great first step
- Write like you speak – Focus on clarity, not sounding “academic”
- Ask a colleague to read your draft – A second set of eyes helps more than you think
- Use a template or past article as a guide – Deconstruct how others structure their work
- Don’t aim for perfect, aim for useful – Your experience is valuable, even if you’re still learning
Remember: writing is a skill – and like any skill, it improves with practice and support.
How topping up your veterinary nursing qualification to degree-level develops writing and research confidence
If you’re interested in writing but don’t feel confident tackling structure, referencing, or critical thinking, topping up your veterinary nursing qualification to degree level (if you haven’t already done so) can be a great foundation for developing these skills.
The BSc (Hons) Veterinary Nursing Top-Up Degree, delivered in partnership with Middlesex University, is designed to help RVNs grow their academic confidence whilst exploring evidence-based clinical practice.
You’ll gain experience in academic writing and referencing, confidence in reviewing research and literature, and a structured opportunity to explore reflective and evidence-based topics with the support of tutors who really understand the RVN experience. Many students find that by the time they complete the programme, they’re well prepared to contribute to journals, conferences, or even pursue further study.
Find out more about the BSc (Hons) Veterinary Nursing Top-Up Degree.
Your first article checklist
Ready to give it a go? Here’s a simple checklist to get started:
- Pick a topic you care about and know well
- Jot down the main learning points you want to share
- Choose a suitable format — case study, reflection, clinical review
- Read recent articles in your target journal for structure
- Draft your piece, then edit for clarity and flow
- Ask a colleague or mentor to review it
- Submit — and don’t be afraid of constructive feedback
You don’t need to be a published academic to make a valuable contribution to veterinary nursing literature. You just need an idea, a little guidance, and the courage to get started. When RVNs write, the profession grows stronger — one article at a time.