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- Tasks: Provide exceptional care for small animals in a supportive and collaborative environment.
- Company: Join River Veterinary Care, a modern independent veterinary practice.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, professional development support, and team socials.
- Other info: Flexible working patterns and a vibrant community in Ponteland.
- Why this job: Enjoy clinical freedom while making a real difference in pets' lives.
- Qualifications: Experienced Veterinary Surgeon with completed VetGDP and confidence in consultations and surgery.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 70000 ÂŁ per year.
Join a modern independent practice where clinical freedom really means something. River Veterinary Care was founded three years ago with a clear vision — to create a practice where veterinary medicine is thoughtful, collaborative, and genuinely enjoyable to practise. Led by founder Alex, River Vets has grown into a thriving independent small animal practice serving Ponteland and the wider Northumberland community. Built from the ground up, the practice combines modern facilities with a close‑knit team and a working environment shaped by collaboration, clinical curiosity, and continuity of care. Today, River Vets has developed a loyal client base and is known locally for excellent patient and client care. As the practice continues to grow, we are now looking for an experienced Veterinary Surgeon to join us and help shape the next stage of our journey.
Our Team & Culture
We have a genuinely supportive culture where communication is open, ideas are shared freely, and everyone contributes to shaping how the practice continues to evolve. We celebrate successes, organise team socials (from Christmas gatherings to occasionally competitive inflatable obstacle courses!), and people stay because they enjoy both the work and the team around them.
What Our Team Says About Working at River Vets
- “River Vets is a fantastic place to work, with a friendly and supportive team who genuinely look out for one another. There is a strong focus on collaboration and maintaining high standards of patient care, while also ensuring that clients feel welcome and well‑supported. It’s a positive environment where both staff and patients are valued.” Katie RVN
- “A truly fabulous vet practice to work for! The supportive and friendly team, along with such lovely clients and their wonderful pets, make every day enjoyable and rewarding. I feel incredibly grateful to be part of such a dedicated and amazing team.” Jo, Practice Manager
The Practice
Our purpose‑built clinic is designed to support both excellent patient care and professional development. Equipped with state‑of‑the‑art diagnostic and surgical facilities and supported by visiting specialists in orthopaedics, ultrasonography, and cardiology, we can manage the majority of cases in‑house while ensuring continuity of care for our patients and clients.
Facilities include:
- Digital & dental radiography (with bucky table)
- Advanced ultrasound (cardiac capable)
- Full endoscopy & gastroscopy
- Laparoscopic surgical tower
- Extensive orthopaedic kit
- In‑house laboratory with blood gas analysis
- Heated Casco kennels & modern theatre facilities
About The Role
We are looking for an enthusiastic, experienced Veterinary Surgeon who has completed their VetGDP and is confident with routine consultations and surgery. This role offers genuine clinical autonomy, managing cases from initial consultation through diagnostics, treatment, and surgery, supported by experienced vets and a highly skilled nursing team.
You will benefit from:
- 20‑minute consultations as standard
- Clinical freedom to work cases up thoroughly
- Supportive colleagues keen to discuss and collaborate on cases
- A nursing team empowered to use their skills fully
- A focus on excellent patient care rather than production targets
Whether you are looking to build surgical confidence, develop a particular clinical interest, or pursue a certificate, your learning and professional development will be actively supported.
Rota & Working Pattern
We aim to provide a working pattern that supports both clinical fulfilment and life outside of work.
- Full‑time role across 4 days per week (8.30 am to 6 pm) – part‑time also considered
- 1 in 3 Saturday morning consults (9 am to 12 pm)
- No out‑of‑hours commitments
- No overnight inpatient responsibility
- Protected lunch breaks and time for administration and case follow‑up
- Flexible working patterns considered for the right candidate
We Offer
- Salary from ÂŁ55,000 to ÂŁ70,000, depending on experience
- 6.6 weeks annual leave
- Certificates and CPD are actively encouraged and funded
- Relocation package available if required
- Professional fees paid for RCVS & VDS
- Christmas bonus & team socials
- Company pension
- Staff discount
- Free parking
Life in Ponteland
Located just outside Newcastle upon Tyne, Ponteland offers the best of both worlds — a welcoming village community with quick access to city life, coastline and countryside. Northumberland’s beaches, walking routes and outdoor spaces are all within easy reach, making it an ideal place to settle, whether relocating or already local to the area.
Join River Veterinary Care
River Vets is still young enough for new team members to shape its future, yet established enough to offer stability, excellent facilities and a loyal client base. If you’re looking for an independent practice where you can develop your interests and feel part of something genuinely collaborative, we’d love to hear from you. Call us for an informal chat or apply now.
Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon employer: River Veterinary Care
Contact Detail:
River Veterinary Care Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the practice before you apply! Research River Vets, their values, and what makes them tick. This way, when you chat with them, you can show off your knowledge and enthusiasm for joining their supportive team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees on LinkedIn or at local vet events. They can give you insider info about the culture and what it’s really like to work at River Vets, plus maybe even put in a good word for you!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by thinking about how your experience aligns with their focus on collaboration and patient care. Be ready to share examples of how you've worked well in teams and provided excellent care in your previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in showing your appreciation and keeping you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for veterinary medicine shine through. We want to see your genuine love for animals and how you can contribute to our supportive culture at River Vets.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure to customise your CV to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the role. We’re looking for someone who’s confident in routine consultations and surgery, so showcase those experiences!
Be Authentic: Don’t be afraid to let your personality come through in your application. We value open communication and collaboration, so showing us who you are will help us see if you’re a good fit for our team.
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of joining our fantastic team, make sure to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and get the ball rolling on your journey with River Vets!
How to prepare for a job interview at River Veterinary Care
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your veterinary knowledge, especially around small animal care. Familiarise yourself with common procedures and recent advancements in veterinary medicine. This will not only help you answer technical questions but also show your passion for the field.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
Since River Vets values collaboration, be ready to discuss how you've worked effectively in teams before. Share examples of how you've contributed to a positive work environment or supported colleagues in challenging situations. This will highlight your fit within their supportive culture.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the practice's approach to patient care and team dynamics. Asking about their collaborative processes or how they celebrate successes can demonstrate your genuine interest in their culture and your eagerness to contribute.
✨Be Yourself
River Vets is looking for someone who fits into their friendly and supportive atmosphere. Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through during the interview. Share your experiences and what makes you passionate about veterinary medicine; authenticity goes a long way!