At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to provide top-notch care for small animals and develop your veterinary skills.
- Company: Ark House Vets, part of Inspire Vet Care, a leading veterinary group in Europe.
- Benefits: Up to £65,000 salary, £3,000 welcome bonus, and £4,000 relocation support.
- Other info: Friendly team environment with opportunities for professional growth and community involvement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in animal care while enjoying a balanced work-life schedule.
- Qualifications: Veterinary degree and RCVS registration required; experience in clinical practice preferred.
The predicted salary is between 65000 - 65000 £ per year.
Ark House Vets, Leighton Buzzard, East of England is offering a permanent Vet role with a salary of up to £65,000 (DOE), a welcome bonus of up to £3000 (pro rata), and relocation support of £4000.
As a proud member of Inspire vet care, Ark House is looking for talent to join the team! Inspire vet care is the UK and Europe's leading veterinary care group, made up of over 900 practices and referral hospitals, united by a shared purpose of happier animals and happier owners.
At Inspire vet care, we believe careers should be built without limits. Our people are supported to make more clinical impact, access more career opportunities, and play an active role in their local and professional communities. Through investment in learning, innovation, and wellbeing, we create environments where our teams can grow in confidence, capability, and fulfilment at every stage of their career.
How You'll Make a Difference
As a Primary Care Veterinary Surgeon, you'll work collaboratively with the wider practice team to deliver a high standard of patient and client care across a varied and rewarding caseload. You'll continue to develop your clinical skills and interests while sharing your knowledge and experience with colleagues, contributing positively to the clinical culture of the practice. You'll be an integral member of the clinical team, delivering excellent care and supporting the ongoing development of those around you.
A caseload with plenty of variety
Our patients include cats, dogs, rabbits, small furries, and the occasional exotic or wildlife case brought in by our community-minded clients. We offer a great balance between consults and surgeries, with procedures typically including routine spays, castrates, lumpectomies, dentals, and ECC work when required. We benefit from a wealth of in-house experience but also maintain excellent relationships with local practices to refer cases when appropriate.
The tools you'll need to flourish in your work
Our single-site practice sits within a converted house right in the town centre and is currently undergoing a renovation to give it a fresh new feel. Inside, you'll find a spacious reception area, four consult rooms including a dedicated RVN room and another with a moveable wall for added flexibility. The practice benefits from a well-organised dispensary behind reception, prep area, theatre, separate cat and dog wards, a dedicated dental suite with dental X-ray, an X-ray room, and a lab equipped with a full IDEXX suite and a new microscope. There are also quiet office spaces for admin and a comfortable staff area with kitchen facilities, tea and coffee, weekly fruit deliveries, and a good supply of snacks. On-site parking makes life that little bit easier too.
You’ll have access to everything you’d expect from a modern first opinion practice, including X-ray, dental X-ray, ultrasound, and a flexible endoscope. We’re looking for a vet who is confident in surgery and comfortable working sole charge when needed, supported by a capable, experienced nursing team.
The hours
Our full-time rota consists of four nine-hour days from Monday to Friday, with a 1 in 4 Saturday morning which runs from 8:30 until 1 and is sole charge. There is no out of hours work, allowing you to enjoy a predictable and healthy work-life balance.
Our fantastic team
You’ll be joining a friendly team of two vets, seven RVNs, and a client care team of five including our Practice Manager. We also have visiting specialists in cardiology, diagnostics, soft tissue surgery, and orthopaedics, with opportunities for mentoring and learning new techniques. If you're considering working towards a certificate, we’re more than happy to discuss how we can support you. We’re also proud to give back by supporting charities such as Cats Protection and Guide Dogs for the Blind.
A lovely place to live & work
Leighton Buzzard offers the best of both worlds, a peaceful Bedfordshire market town with beautiful countryside, riverside walks, and a strong community spirit, while also boasting excellent transport links into London, Milton Keynes, and beyond. The town centre is full of shops, cosy cafés, and local markets, and the surrounding area offers stunning green spaces including Rushmere Country Park and the Chilterns. Whether you love exploring the outdoors, want easy connections for commuting, or simply enjoy a friendly, welcoming place to settle, Leighton Buzzard has plenty to offer for anyone considering relocation.
You Might Be a Great Fit If
You are a confident and motivated veterinary surgeon who enjoys working as part of a team and is committed to delivering high-quality patient and client care.
You’ll bring:
- A Veterinary degree and registration (or eligibility to register) with the RCVS
- Experience working in clinical practice with growing confidence in routine medical and surgical cases
- Strong communication skills and the ability to build effective relationships with clients and colleagues
- A proactive approach to learning, with openness to feedback and development
- Professionalism, reliability, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively
How We'll Support You
At Inspire vet care, we’re committed to supporting your ongoing development and wellbeing. When you join us, you’ll benefit from:
- Clear career pathways with progression opportunities across primary care, referral, leadership, and specialist roles
- Funded learning and development including CPD allowance and access to IVC academy training centres & role relevant courses
- £1,250 annual Care Fund for every vet
- Access to mentors, regional clinical coaches, and peer networks
- Support to develop clinical interests and expand your capabilities
- A collaborative, values-led culture focused on care, community, and continuous improvement
What We Offer Our Team
- 6.6 weeks' holiday including bank holidays
- Private medical insurance
- Enhanced family leave and pay across maternity, paternity, adoption, and surrogacy.
- BVA membership, VDS cover & RCVS fees
- Cycle to Work and Green Car schemes (eligibility applies)
- Retail discounts and cashback offers
- Reduced cost veterinary care for your own pets
At IVC Evidensia, we are committed to Diversity, Equality, Inclusion, and Belonging. We are keen to hear from candidates from all minority and diverse groups. As a Disability Confident Employer, we are keen to hear from candidates with disabilities and long-term health conditions and would be happy to discuss any reasonable adjustments needed during the recruitment process.
If you have any questions before applying, please speak to Marcus Alphonso from our recruitment team who would be happy to help you with any questions you have before applying for this role.
Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal employer: Job Search Place Limited
Ark House Vets in Leighton Buzzard is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment where veterinary professionals can thrive. With a commitment to employee growth through funded learning opportunities, clear career pathways, and a focus on wellbeing, our team enjoys a healthy work-life balance and the chance to make a meaningful impact in the community. The practice's modern facilities and the charming town of Leighton Buzzard provide an ideal setting for both personal and professional fulfilment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow vets, attend local meet-ups, or join online forums. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and scenarios. Role-play with a friend or even in front of the mirror. The more comfortable you are, the better you'll shine when it counts!
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for animal care during interviews. Share stories about your experiences with different animals and how you've made a difference. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly cares.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find all the latest roles and updates right there, making your job search a breeze.
We think you need these skills to ace Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match what we're looking for in a Veterinary Surgeon. Highlight your clinical experience, especially with small animals, and any special interests you have!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share why you're passionate about veterinary care and how you can contribute to our team at Ark House. Don't forget to mention any relevant experiences that showcase your commitment to high-quality patient care.
Show Off Your Personality:We love a good personality! Let your unique voice come through in your application. We want to see how you'd fit into our friendly team, so don't be afraid to show us who you are beyond your qualifications.
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of success, make sure to apply directly through our website. It’s super easy and ensures your application gets to the right people quickly. Plus, we can't wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Job Search Place Limited
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your veterinary knowledge, especially regarding small animals. Familiarise yourself with common procedures and conditions you might encounter at Ark House Vets. Being able to discuss specific cases or techniques will show your passion and expertise.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Since this role involves working closely with a team, be prepared to talk about your experiences in collaborative settings. Share examples of how you've contributed to a positive team culture and supported your colleagues in the past.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the practice, its culture, and opportunities for professional development. This not only shows your interest in the role but also helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Learning
Highlight your proactive approach to learning and development. Discuss any additional training or certifications you're interested in pursuing, and how you plan to contribute to the ongoing growth of the practice and your colleagues.
