Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon

Permanent Role | Oxfordshire (Hospital & Branch Work)

A well-established, long-standing independent veterinary group in Oxfordshire is looking to welcome an experienced Small Animal Vet to join their friendly, progressive clinical team.

This is a genuinely excellent opportunity to work within a respected independent practice that prioritises high clinical standards, sustainable rotas, and long-term career development — without the pressures often associated with corporate environments.

The Role

You’ll be primarily based at a busy, well-equipped small animal hospital, with some sole-charge work at nearby branch practices. The role offers a well-balanced mix of consults, surgery, hospital work, and ambulatory shifts, all supported by a large and highly skilled nursing and reception team.

Working pattern: 4 days per week (8:00am–6:30pm)
Alternative working patterns will be considered

Consults: 15-minute appointments, with flexibility for complex cases and admin

OOH:

Currently 1:10 full weekends (day shifts only)

Occasional Saturday morning consults

Time off:

Monday morning off following a full weekend

Full day off after occasional night shift

Importantly, once your shift ends, care is handed over to a dedicated in-house night team, meaning no overnight inpatient or emergency responsibilities during the week. Rotas are designed to be realistic, sustainable, and respectful of your time.

Clinical Environment

This is a practice that values both clinical excellence and clinical freedom. While clear protocols and best-practice standards are in place, vets are encouraged to think independently, develop their own clinical plans, and pursue areas of interest within a supportive and open-minded team.

With a large and loyal client base, you’ll enjoy a full and varied caseload, offering excellent exposure across both medicine and surgery. There is strong internal mentorship, genuine support for certificates, and a structured career pathway designed to support long-term progression — right through to senior and leadership level if desired.

The Team

Large Team with Small Animal Vets of all experiences including many mentors/senior director

Large team of experienced Registered Veterinary Nurses, supported by students and care assistants

Fully staffed in-house laboratory

Dedicated pharmacy and dispensary team

This is a collaborative, well-resourced environment where vets are enabled to do their best work.

About You

You’ll be a confident, motivated Small Animal Vet who enjoys being part of a close-knit team and takes pride in delivering excellent care.

You’ll ideally bring:

A minimum of 3 years’ experience in a similar small animal role

Confidence working independently when required

A collaborative, can-do attitude with strong clinical aspirations

A full UK driving licence and own transport (rural location)

An appreciation for country life and a genuine passion for animals

What’s on Offer

Salary: £38,000 – £60,000 DOE

7 weeks holiday (increasing with service)

Funded RCVS membership and VDS cover

Private Medical Insurance and comprehensive wellbeing programme

Generous staff discount scheme

Structured career pathway from graduate to director level

CPD allowance: 1 week / £1,500 per year

Additional funding and support for Certificates

Access to extensive independent-practice resources and shared learning initiatives

Active social calendar and genuinely supportive working culture

Location

Based in a beautiful rural setting in Oxfordshire, with hospital and branch sites across the region, this role offers the chance to enjoy countryside living while working in a clinically stimulating environment.