Transitioning into emergency and critical care (ECC) from general practice can feel like a big leap with fast-paced shifts, unpredictable cases, and high-stakes decisions. It’s completely normal to feel unsure or even intimidated by the idea. But as several of our ECC vets will tell you – it can be one of the most rewarding moves you make in your career.
Whether you’re early in your journey or considering a change after years of first opinion practice, ECC offers a unique blend of challenge, teamwork, adrenaline, and purpose. You’ll be working closely with skilled nurses, growing your clinical confidence, and helping clients through some of their most difficult moments with empathy and expertise.
We asked some of our team to share their honest thoughts, tips, and encouragement for anyone thinking about making the switch. Here’s what they had to say.
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Anneka Philips – Principal Vet
BVM&S PGCertSAECC MRCVS
“You can do it. People are sometimes worried about the jump from general practice to ECC practice because they are concerned about how they will handle the caseload and the urgent nature of cases. I believe it is within each and every one of us to thrive in emergency practice- a few simple tips on how to triage cases and prioritise emergency diagnostics and you will be riding the adrenaline high with the rest of us.”
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Katie Turney – Vet Surgeon
BVMSci MRCVS
“ECC can seem quite daunting, because the thought of seeing emergencies all the time is pretty scary – especially if you don’t see them often in day practice or feel that you lack experience. But the absolute truth is that you can do it, and you can do it better than you think. Each case is approached with basic principles, things you do every day, and we work up from there – plus there isn’t pressure to be done in 15 minutes for your next appointment, and you have a legendary nurse with you who legitimately keeps the building from falling down. So don’t stress about it – if you’re keen on ECC, just go for it.”
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Zara Kennedy – Head of Veterinary Standards
BVSc BSc MRCVS
“Top Tip: Be curious, not perfect. I often hear people say that they don’t feel they have enough experience or knowledge to work in ECC. The crucial thing to remember though is that, in ECC, you often meet owners during stressful and unexpected moments. They don’t need you to have all the answers—they need someone calm, kind, and able to guide them through a difficult time. Stay open, ask questions, and communicate well. Your clinical confidence will grow, but showing you care matters from day one.”
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Harriet Robinson – Vet Surgeon
BVSc MRCVS
“Switching from first opinion day practice to ECC is a big change, but a really rewarding one. The biggest shift is in mindset – you go from a structured list of consults to a fast-paced triage system, where the sickest patients come first, not the ones who’ve been waiting longest. You never really know what each shift will bring, and that unpredictability becomes part of the appeal. You’ll often be juggling multiple cases at once, but you’re surrounded by a small, tight-knit team and amazing nurses who make it all manageable. It’s also about connecting quickly with clients in high-stress situations and showing empathy, no one ever plans to be in an emergency, after all. For me, emergency medicine and surgery are more dynamic and fun than chronic case work, and when your shift is done, it’s really done – you can walk away knowing you’ve done your part. It provides a really good work-life balance.”
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Claire Hill – Lead Out of Hours Vet Surgeon
BVM BVM BVMedSci MRCVS
“Thinking of making the move into ECC? I made the leap early in my career and have never looked back. Emergency and critical care is fast-paced, dynamic, and full of variety – perfect for vets who thrive on challenge and unpredictability. A few things I’ve learned along the way: ECC is a team sport. Whether I’ve worked in small teams or large referral hospitals, it’s always the people that make the shift. Use the breadth of skills around you – from fellow vets to nurses and support staff. Communication is key. Regular “huddles” during a shift can make all the difference – aligning on priorities, checking in on patients, and making sure everyone’s on the same page. Know your microscope. It’s an underrated but essential tool that can give you rapid answers in critical cases. Prioritise your breaks. ECC shifts are intense. Even a 10-minute breather can improve your focus, efficiency, and mental wellbeing. You’re never truly alone. Out-of-hours work can feel isolating at first, but you’re part of a bigger ECC community. Don’t hesitate to reach out – whether that’s to a local clinic, on-call colleague, or referral centre. It’s not always easy, but it’s incredibly rewarding. If you’re considering ECC – go for it. You might just find your place.”
Thinking about taking the leap into ECC?
If you’re ready to explore a career in emergency and critical care, our Edge programmes are designed specifically to support vets making the transition. With a blend of online learning and hands-on practical sessions, you’ll be guided by experienced ECC professionals who will help you build confidence, sharpen your skills, and prepare you to thrive in this dynamic field.