Small Animal OOH Vet & Weekend Vet
Looking for night work, weekend shifts or a mix of both? Let’s talk about what works for you.
We’re looking for an OOH Vet and a Weekend Vet to join Bishopton Vets, our friendly, independent practice in Ripon, North Yorkshire. With a well‑equipped hospital, an experienced team and flexible working patterns, there’s plenty of scope to find your fit.
What’s the role?
We’re seeking small animal vets, ideally with a couple of years’ postgraduate experience. What matters most is a passion for excellent patient care, motivation and the confidence to manage your own caseload, with the support of our wider team.
OOH Vet
You’ll provide emergency care and look after our hospital inpatients overnight, using your clinical judgement and making key decisions with an RVN on‑site at all times.
We’re open to discussing full‑time or part‑time working patterns and how night shifts could fit around your commitments. Let us know what you’re looking for, and we’ll explore the options together.
Weekend Vet
We’re also looking for a vet to help cover our weekends, and we’re flexible about how that could look. Whether you’re interested in regular Saturdays, Sundays, both days or a full weekend every few weeks, we’d love to hear from you. If you have another pattern in mind, let’s talk about what could work.
If a combination of OOH and weekend work appeals, we’re happy to discuss that too. You don’t need to be available for both roles to apply.
Support & facilities
- RVN on‑site at all times, with a twilight RVN and auxiliary covering the back shift
- Morning and evening handovers for the OOH team
- Fully equipped hospital with an on‑site lab, ultrasound, scopes and complete surgical kit
- On‑site accommodation available if needed
About Us
When Bishopton Vets first opened its doors in 1943, we were a small practice serving rural North Yorkshire. Fast forward 80+ years, and we’re now one of the region’s largest independent practices – but our heart hasn’t changed. We remain rooted in our community, guided by our values, and proud to be independently owned and run.
Our RCVS‑accredited veterinary hospital in Ripon serves as the central hub for our farm and pig team, and provides 24/7 emergency care for pet owners. Supported by four welcoming branch surgeries in Thirsk, Northallerton, Easingwold, and Pateley Bridge, the hospital also offers advanced referral services, including orthopaedics, soft tissue surgery, ultrasound, cardiology, ophthalmology, and laparoscopy.
In our small animal department, we are proud to be an ISFM Cat Friendly Clinic and Zero Pain accredited, reflecting our commitment to excellence, comfort, and the highest standards of care for every patient.
What makes Bishopton Vets special?
We don’t just talk about values – we live them. Our CARES vision guides everything we do: Clinical Excellence, Adaptability, Respect, Education, and Sustainability.
Clinical excellence & support
- Join a 16‑strong FTE small animal vet team, including RCVS Advanced Practitioners and certificate holders in small animal surgery (soft tissue & orthopaedics), feline medicine, chronic pain management & acupuncture, and small animal practice.
- Ongoing professional development is fully supported, with mentorship, training, and access to the latest techniques and best practices.
- Regular journal clubs, clinical governance meetings, case discussions, and clinical club sessions ensure knowledge is shared and outcomes are continually improved.
- Excellent facilities and equipment, including upgraded ultrasound, laparoscopy, video endoscopy, an in‑house lab, and a weekly visiting CT service.
Culture & community
Life at Bishopton isn’t all work; we know how to have fun too. From Bishy Bingo nights, quiz evenings and bowling trips, to charity runs and craft clubs, there’s always something going on. Each summer, we join Ripon’s St Wilfrid’s Procession, where the whole team picks a theme, designs a float, and gets creative with costumes (yes, we’ve been pirates and Oompa Loompas!). Many of our team have been with us for years because here, you’re not just part of a workplace, you’re part of a community.
We are proud members of XLVets – a nationwide network of independently‑owned, progressive practices that work together to share expertise, improve standards, and support their teams.
Independence matters
Being independently owned gives us the freedom to make decisions together as a team, shaping our practice to benefit patients, clients, and colleagues alike. It also means when something tough comes through the door – like an emergency RTA with limited funds – the whole team pulls together, with no hesitation about “who’s paying.” It’s simply about doing the right thing.
Living in Ripon
On the edge of the Yorkshire Dales and Moors, Ripon is surrounded by stunning countryside perfect for walking, cycling, and exploring. Harrogate and York are close by, and the local grammar school has an excellent reputation.
What we offer
- Salary up to £65,000 (pro rata), dependent upon experience and role combination
- Annual CPD (pro rata) and generous CPD allowance
- Professional fees paid for RCVS, VDS, BVA, plus one other membership
- Access to private medical insurance and a medical cash plan
- The People’s Pension scheme, with 5% employee and 3% employer contributions
- Perkbox rewards, recognition and discounts
- Wellbeing initiatives, including access to an Employee Assistance Programme
- Team pet discount scheme
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Above all, a truly supportive and social team
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Small Animal OOH Vet & Weekend Vet employer: Bishopton Veterinary Group
Bishopton Vets is an exceptional employer located in the picturesque North Yorkshire, offering a supportive and friendly work environment where veterinary professionals can thrive. With a strong commitment to ongoing professional development, a vibrant community culture, and a focus on clinical excellence, employees enjoy a fulfilling career alongside a great quality of life, surrounded by stunning countryside and engaging team activities. The practice's dedication to innovation and teamwork ensures that every member feels valued and empowered to grow in their role.
Contact Details:
Bishopton Veterinary Group Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Small Animal OOH Vet & Weekend Vet
✨Join Medical Networks
Get involved in local and national medical associations, like the Royal College of Physicians. These networks can help you connect with mentors and colleagues who might know of openings, plus they're great for staying updated on the latest in medicine and clinical practices.
✨Attend Healthcare Conferences
Make it a habit to attend medical conferences and seminars. These events are fantastic for networking and often feature job boards where hospitals and clinics post their openings. Plus, it’s a good way to get your face recognised in the industry.
✨Leverage Your Medical School's Resources
Don’t forget to use your medical school’s career services! They usually have great connections with hospitals and clinics looking to fill full-time physician positions and can help you with mock interviews or networking events.
✨Apply Directly Through Hospital Websites
When you're ready to apply, make sure to check the careers section of hospital websites directly. Hospitals like Bishopton Veterinary Group often post their job openings there first, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge over other applicants.
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Credentials:When applying for a physician role, make sure to highlight your medical qualifications and any special certifications you have. We want to see your medical degree, residency training, and any additional certifications that set you apart, like specialised training in paediatrics or geriatrics. Don’t leave out those all-important letters after your name!
Tailor Your CV to Medicine:Your CV should reflect your experience and skills as a doctor. Be specific about your clinical rotations, medical practice, and any research work you've done – we love seeing quantifiable impacts, so mention how you've improved patient care or led successful treatment plans.
Craft a Personal Statement with Heart:In your cover letter, let us know why you chose medicine and what drives your passion for patient care. Personal stories about transformative experiences—like a memorable patient encounter or a moment that defined your career path—can really make you shine. Remember, we're looking for someone who genuinely cares about their patients!
Demonstrate Continuous Learning:In the medical field, showcasing your commitment to continuous learning is essential. Mention any recent courses, workshops, or conferences you’ve attended, and highlight your willingness to stay updated on medical advancements. This shows us that you’re not just a physician; you're a lifelong learner, ready to adapt and grow.
How to prepare for a job interview at Bishopton Veterinary Group
✨Get Clinical Knowledge Sharp
Brush up on your clinical knowledge, particularly in areas relevant to the role at Bishopton Veterinary Group. Expect questions about diagnosis, treatment plans, and patient management. Be ready to discuss case studies or even do some role-playing with hypothetical patient scenarios for a more practical assessment.
✨Know Your Procedures and Protocols
Familiarise yourself with the latest procedures and protocols that are specific to the field of medicine you’re applying to. Whether it’s surgical techniques or patient care protocols, being able to discuss these confidently can really set you apart in the interview at Bishopton Veterinary Group.
✨Show You're a Team Player
In the medical field, collaboration is key. Have examples ready that showcase your teamwork and communication skills. Talk about how you've worked with nurses, specialists, or other doctors in the past to provide the best care for your patients. This shows you're ready to integrate into the team at Bishopton Veterinary Group.
✨Stay Current with Medical Trends
Make sure you’re clued up on the latest medical trends, research, and innovations. Not only does this prepare you for technical questions, but it also shows your passion for the field. Be ready to discuss how these trends might affect your practice at Bishopton Veterinary Group.
