Animal friendly

Third-year veterinary nursing student Rebecca Timms (left), of Hamilton, and Otago Polytechnic veterinary nursing diploma co-ordinator Jennifer Hamlin, of Christchurch, examine a pigeon during a demonstration yesterday.

The Otago Polytechnic School of Veterinary Nursing moved into the former Otago School of Art building in Albany St last week, relocating from the fourth and fifth floors of the polytechnic's H block.

"It's a wonderful building and perfect for us," head of school Jeanette O'Fee said.

"Taking animals up and down the H block lift wasn't very conducive to animal welfare."

The new site includes a surgical suite, preparation area, classroom, kennels, cattery, animal lounge and outside area.

About 450 students are being taught from the building, including 40 on campus and 410 by distance learning.