After graduating in 1984 from Sydney University, Dr Vogelnest worked in a mixed private practice before travelling overseas and working in England. On return to Australia he worked in an avian practice in Sydney for twelve months before starting as a Veterinary Intern at Taronga Zoo in 1990. During this time he completed a Masters in Veterinary Studies in Wildlife Medicine and Husbandry. The research for his masters was on haematology and biochemistry of Australian cockatoos. Since completing his internship Dr Vogelnest has been employed at Taronga Zoo and is currently the senior veterinarian. He is responsible for the health and welfare of the Zoo's animal collection, and sick, injured and orphaned native Australian wildlife brought into the Zoo's wildlife clinic. In 1996 Dr Vogelnest gained membership to the Australian College of Veterinary Scientists by examination in Zoo Animal Medicine. In 1988 Dr Vogelnest took a 12 month sabbatical, and worked at Melbourne Zoo for 2 months and Victoria's Open Range Zoo at Werribee for 10 months, where he was employed as their first full-time veterinarian, before returning to Taronga Zoo as Senior Veterinarian.