Veterinary nursing in Norway

Veterinary nursing in Norway: a small but diverse profession

Norway currently counts 1,305 veterinary nurses (VNs) and 4,968 veterinarians. Around 30% of veterinarians work in companion animal practice and 10% in mixed practice, while many others are active in fish health, large animal medicine and government services. The country has an estimated 600 to 1,000 small animal clinics, reflecting a varied and geographically spread veterinary landscape.

Education: from one year to Bachelor level

Veterinary nurse education in Norway began in 1994 as a one-year university programme with a strong focus on production animals. Today, education has evolved into a three-year Bachelor’s degree, with the main focus on companion animals. It is offered at two institutions:

• Norwegian University of Life Sciences (Oslo) – ACOVENE accredited

• Nord University (Bodø)

While Norway currently does not offer a master’s degree in veterinary nursing, some nurses pursue postgraduate studies abroad. Many Norwegian VNs also obtain N.Certs and other specialisations in addition to their degree.

Protected title – but limited regulation

The title of veterinary nurse (dyrepleier) has been legally protected since 2003, and misuse is punishable by law. To use it, professionals must obtain authorisation and register with Mattilsynet (the Norwegian Food Safety Authority), which approves their education.

Most clinics rely on veterinary nurses to perform anaesthesia, and Norway also welcomes internationally trained nurses, either as assistants or through formal recognition of their qualifications.

However, regulation remains incomplete. One key challenge is ensuring that education and competence are properly valued. ‘Qualified VNs can be replaced by less expensive lay personnel. The clinical responsibility ultimately rests with the vet, which means that tasks such as anaesthesia may be delegated to non-qualified staff,’ explains Heidi Rasch Johnsen, board member of the Norwegian Veterinary Nurse and Assistant association.

In Norway, veterinary nurses are increasingly recognised

Nevertheless, progress is visible. Many clinics increasingly highlight the role of veterinary nurses as essential team members. Younger veterinarians in particular show growing appreciation for VN expertise, and this shift is gradually becoming visible to the public.

Veterinary nurses in Norway are steadily strengthening their professional identity. With solid academic training and increasing specialisation, they are becoming indispensable partners in modern veterinary teams — working alongside veterinarians to deliver high-quality animal care across the country.

More information:

Norwegian Veterinary Nurse and Assistant association (NDAF)

Obtaining authorisation to work as a VN in Norway

DISCLAIMER: Please note that what veterinary nurses can and cannot do legally may differ per country.

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