Have you seen our latest TV advert yet? Look closely enough and you might spot Kirsty Terry. Kirsty is a Vet Care Assistant (VCA) based at our Ilford PDSA Pet Clinic and, as it happens, is a fully trained actress too! So, naturally, she was a perfect fit for the role. We caught up with Kirsty, post-filming, to chat about all things PDSA, her acting background and, of course, what it was like to feature in the advert.
Hi Kirsty! How long have you been a Vet Care Assistant at PDSA?
I’m pretty new still, around 7 months now.
What is your favourite thing about being a VCA at PDSA?
Being able to comfort a sick animal. And teaching people about rabbit and rodent husbandry - I’m especially passionate about this. I often get asked to chat to rabbit owners about how to improve their care.
What made you apply for the role of VCA?
As an owner of many pets myself (all rescues), and with my extensive background working with animals, I wanted to get some veterinary experience. And, to be honest, I was interested in what goes on behind the scenes once you leave your pets at the vet. I’ve discovered that everyone on the team cares about your pet and will do what they can to help.
What was your background/role before joining PDSA?
I've worked with exotic animals and pets for over 10 years in various jobs including kennels, dog walking and an animal college. But I have a degree in zoology and have spent years volunteering at zoos, so exotics are my forte. I even have experience with cattle and other farm animals. I do have a soft spot for anything with hooves, alongside my love for rabbits and rodents.
How did you feel about being asked to star in the new PDSA TV advert?
I volunteered to help very happily!
Have you done any acting roles before?
Yes lots. I originally moved to London around 9 years ago to study acting, after starring in short films and amateur dramatic plays back home in Portsmouth. I've been on camera and stage pretty much since I was 6 years old. I did a year of drama school and a year of rep theatre, but decided to go back to my first love - animals.
Any highlights from the day of filming?
Just being back in front of the camera for the first time in 5 years. I love the adrenaline of all the equipment and crew buzzing around.
What part did you play in the TV ad? And what did you have to do?
I played myself, basically. I had to go through the motions of discharging a pet after surgery and explaining the aftercare to the owner.
How was the star of the show during filming (actor dog Jack)?
He was very serious - a well-seasoned actor who knew exactly what to do. We had a one of our Veterinary Nurses there as Jack’s welfare officer, making sure he was relaxed, happy, and comfortable during the day. He got plenty of filming breaks, and seemed to really enjoy his work!
How do you think the advert will help PDSA?
Lots of people still don't know PDSA exists, so hopefully it will generate awareness and it means more pets won't go without treatment.
What would you say to someone who was considering donating to PDSA after watching the advert?
Pet owners need PDSA now more than ever. Every day we are seeing people coming to us for help – people who may not have needed PDSA before, when they were able to manage their bills, but are now struggling due to the cost of living crisis. Everyone deserves the chance to care for a pet, regardless of their financial status, and we’re here to try and keep pets and their owners together, but we can only continue to do that with support and donations.
Would you like to make a difference to pets in need, like Kirsty? Why not join PDSA? From our veterinary professionals to our volunteers, shop staff and head office employees, our dedicated and passionate team all play a part in improving the lives of pets.