A DEDICATED veterinary nurse who places both pets and their owners first in her professional dealings has been shortlisted for a national award.

Rachel Smith, 28, of Durham Vets4Pets in Framwellgatemoor, Durham, was chosen from hundreds of entries from across the UK for the title of nurse of year in Petplan Veterinarian Awards.

Ms Smith, 28, who has been qualified for seven years, joined Vets4Pets in March 2003 and has recently been made a partner of the practice.

She said: "I'm delighted to have been nominated. I have done nothing different to what I have done in the past.

"I have a memory for all the people who come in and feel it is important to make them feel as if they are being dealt with individually."

Her clients have heaped their praises on her. One customer said: "Her knowledge of her clients and their pets in excellent and her professionalism is obvious from the time to you meet her."

Ms Smith is involved in running puppy parties, as well as working beyond her scheduled hours.

Jenny Walton, a part-time vet at the practice, who also nominated her, said: "I have worked with Rachel since 2000 and she is absolutely phenomenal.

"You cannot get an easier and more efficient person to work with. She is always one step ahead of you and always has everything ready.

"Rachel is also involved in supporting nurses in their further education and she is a true role model for them."

As well as looking after her five-year-old daughter, Ms Smith finds time for her two horses, five dogs, four cats and a ring-necked parakeet.

Entertainer Guy Browning will announce the winner of the awards at a ceremony in Birmingham on April 7