Calling all animal lovers – free animal career advice event

Are you interested in working with animals? Animal lovers in Withywood, Hartcliffe and surrounding areas looking for information about career and training options in the animal care and veterinary industry are invited to a FREE community event this week.

The animal career advice drop-in session is open to anyone interested in working with animals, including school leavers, people seeking a career change, or looking to re-enter the workforce.  There will be lots of hands-on activities (using models) to give people an idea of the kind of activities that working with animals can involve.

The drop-in session on Wednesday 13 August runs from 2 to 4 pm at the University of Bristol’s Hartcliffe Micro-campus, located in the Gatehouse Centre, Withywood

The event is part of a two-year project between the University of Bristol Veterinary School, Bristol Animal Rescue Centre (Bristol A.R.C.), Langford Vets, and the Bristol Paws Project to identify ways of supporting pet owners in the Hartcliffe area of Bristol.

Using the University’s micro-campus, local pet owners are invited to drop-in sessions to learn about different aspects of pet care over a cuppa, and pick up free pet food.

Dates for future community drop-in sessions, which will feature themed discussions, are:

  • Wednesday 17 September
  • Wednesday 15 October
  • Wednesday 12 November
  • Wednesday 10 December

The sessions aim to connect local pet owners with useful resources and general pet care advice, such as feeding, preventative health care, training and grooming, while providing an open space to discuss common issues and solutions.

Sheena Warman, Professor of Veterinary Education and Deputy Head of the Bristol Veterinary School, said: “If you’ve ever dreamed of working with animals – whether you’re just starting out or thinking about a change – this is your chance to explore the possibilities.

“Come along, get hands-on experience, and speak to real professionals to help you take the next step into a rewarding career in animal care.”

The Animal Careers Advice drop-in session (no booking required) will take place on Wednesday 13 August 2025 from 2 to 4 pm at the University of Bristol’s Micro-campus, Gatehouse Centre, Withywood, Bristol BS13 9JN.