Veterinary Receptionist

About the Role

You’ll be the welcoming face of Avon Lodge Veterinary Group, working across three branches in Salisbury, Amesbury, and Wilton. This part-time role is perfect if you’re organised, calm under pressure, and enjoy variety—no two days are quite the same in veterinary practice. Your shift pattern is flexible across the three locations (Monday–Friday, ranging from mornings to early evenings), giving you predictable hours within a dynamic team environment.

The practice values empathy and genuine care for both clients and their pets, and they’re looking for someone who shares that ethos. You’ll see clients through their entire journey—from that first greeting to booking their next appointment and sending them home with a smile.

Key Responsibilities

• Greet clients and handle enquiries via phone, email, and in person, managing bookings and general questions
• Manage the practice diary and maintain accurate client and animal records using the veterinary practice management software
• Process prescription requests and prepare dispensed orders for the clinical team to verify
• Handle payments and manage end-of-day banking procedures
• Provide animal handling support in sub-branches, particularly assisting the clinical team when needed (training provided)
• Maintain clean, tidy, and well-stocked reception areas; take responsibility for end-of-day cleaning in sub-branches
• Promote the practice’s healthcare plans and help clients understand the importance of preventative care for their pets’ wellbeing

Requirements

• Full, clean driving licence (essential—you’ll be working across three branches)
• Previous telephone handling or customer service experience is beneficial but not essential; on-the-job training will be provided
• Calm, confident approach to animal handling (no prior clinical experience required)
• Computer literacy and ability to learn new software systems quickly
• Personable, professional communication skills with genuine empathy for clients and pets
• Flexibility and can-do attitude; ability to think quickly and adapt to situations
• Willingness to provide cover for holidays and sickness across all three locations

Benefits

• Competitive part-time salary (up to £13,132.66)
• 6.6 weeks annual leave (FTE)
• Additional annual leave on your birthday, added to your holiday allowance
• Enhanced family-friendly policies including maternity, paternity, adoption, shared parental, and surrogacy pay
• Cycle to work scheme
• Employee wellbeing initiatives and non-accidental injury support
• Learning and development opportunities via IVC Evidensia Academy
• Pawsome Benefits—reward gateway offering discounts and cashback with hundreds of retailers
• Pension scheme
• Discounted staff pet care

About the Practice

Avon Lodge Veterinary Group is a well-established small animal practice with a real family atmosphere. They operate three branches across Salisbury, Amesbury, and Wilton, serving the local community with a collaborative team of 7 veterinary surgeons, 7 nursing staff, and 10 reception team members. The practice is well-equipped and known for delivering high-quality, compassionate care to dogs, cats, small pets, and exotics.

Part of IVC Evidensia, the UK’s leading independent veterinary group, Avon Lodge combines the resources and support of a larger organisation with the personalised, local feel of an independent practice. They’re committed to staff wellbeing, continuous learning, and creating an environment where everyone can thrive.